Vatican City Population

By | May 6, 2024

Population Distribution

As of 2023, the latest population of Vatican City is 1,000, based on our calculation of the current data from UN (United Nations).

Total population 1,000
Population growth rate 0.00%
Birth rate
Life expectancy
Overall life expectancy
Men life expectancy
Women life expectancy
Age structure
0-14 years
15-64 years
65 years and above
Median age
Gender ratio (Male to Female)
Population density 2,272.73 residents per km²
Urbanization 100.00%
Ethnicities
approx. 800 residents, of which approx. 450 people have Vatican citizenship
Religions
Catholics (Roman Catholic)

People in Vatican City

The Vatican is the smallest state in the world – not only in terms of size, but also in terms of population. Around 1000 people live here (as of 2017). Of these, 605 are Vatican citizens. However, this is only granted on a temporary basis and is associated with a function. Only about 30 residents are women.

The Pope

The most famous resident of Vatican City is of course the Pope. He is not only the head of the Roman Catholic Church, but also the head of state of the small country. Since 2013 this is Pope Francis.

Other residents

All cardinals living here or in Rome and all diplomats of the Holy See are also citizens of the Vatican. Citizenship can be obtained on application if one lives and works in the Vatican. These are, for example, the employees of the papal household, such as cooks, valets and cleaning staff. This also includes the administrative officials, mostly priests.

The Swiss Guard

The Swiss Guard ensures security. Your soldiers ensure the security in the country and are also responsible for the personal safety of the Pope. This tradition dates back to the 16th century. Originally there were four Papal Guards, the Swiss Guard is the only one remaining. 110 men belong to it.

Your tasks are not military, but should be understood as honorary services. They keep watch during audiences and visits and carry out security and security services. To become a Swiss Guard, you have to be Swiss, Catholic and male. As halberdiers and vice corporals (these are ranks) they may not be married.

Languages in Vatican City

The Vatican is the only country in the world where Latin is the official language. In everyday life, however, Italian is mainly used. The command languages ​​of the Swiss Guard are German and Italian.

Religions in Vatican City

All residents are Catholic.

Vatican City Overview

Vatican City, located within Rome, Italy, is famous for being the smallest independent state in the world and the spiritual center of the Roman Catholic Church. Home to iconic landmarks like St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and Vatican Museums, it attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists each year. As the residence of the Pope, Vatican City holds immense religious significance, hosting ceremonies, papal audiences, and the election of new pontiffs. Despite its tiny size, Vatican City’s cultural and historical treasures, along with its unique status as a sovereign city-state, make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking spiritual enlightenment and artistic inspiration.

  • Capital City: Vatican City (does not have a capital city)
  • Population: Approximately 800 (residents)
  • Area: 44 hectares (0.44 square kilometers)
  • Full Country Name: Vatican City State
  • Currency: Euro (EUR)
  • Language: Italian, Latin
  • ISO Country Codes: ISO 3166-1 alpha-2: VA, ISO 3166-1 alpha-3: VAT

Bordering Countries of Vatican City

Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world, located in the heart of Rome, Italy. It is bordered by five other countries: Italy to the north and west, San Marino to the north and east, and Monaco to the east. To the south lies Malta.

The Vatican-Italy border has been a source of great cultural exchange due to its strategic location in Central Europe. This has led to strong cultural ties between Vatican City and Italy as well as strong political cooperation in recent years. In addition, Vatican City also has strong economic ties with its bordering countries due to its thriving tourism industry which have attracted foreign investment.

The relationship between Vatican City and its neighbours is complex but largely peaceful despite occasional disputes over matters such as taxation or religious freedom. In recent years there have been efforts by both sides to improve relations as well as increased trade between them for mutual benefit. For example, Vatican City has signed several free trade agreements with neighbouring countries that have helped boost economic growth in both nations. Furthermore, there have been efforts by all sides to promote regional stability through joint military exercises or peacekeeping operations in conflict zones such as San Marino or Malta.