Vatican City is one of only a handful small countries in the world. Its modest size and uniqueness make the state particularly appealing to travelers. We recommend that you learn 10 facts about the Vatican.

Fact 1.

Surprisingly, people here consume far more wine than anywhere else on Earth. According to data, each Vatican resident uses 54 liters per year.

Fact 2.

The Vatican boasts the world’s shortest railway. It comprises of two 300-meter tracks and two business routes. There is only one train station.

Fact 3.

There are more tourists per native inhabitant here than in any other country in the globe. The Vatican attracts a large number of tourists (approximately 5.5 million visits each year to the museum alone), as it is a historical, religious, and cultural site.

Fact 4.

The Vatican is the only country in the world that has its own version of the euro. The Holy See releases its own euro coins. By the way, they are freely available in all EU nations.

Fact 5.

The Pope commands his own army, which, incidentally, wears a pretty unique uniform. Its name is the Papal Swiss Guard. They are based in the Vatican, and 135 of its troops are personally responsible for the Pope’s safety.

Fact 6.

Vatican City has its own telescope in Arizona, USA. It is located on Mount Graham in southeast Arizona. The Vatican Observatory, one of the world’s oldest astronomical research institutions, operates the telescope.

Fact 7.

The Vatican boasts one of the best post offices in the world. Many travelers, particularly Italians, come to the Vatican specifically to deliver their documents and letters.

Fact 8.

Vatican City is the only place in the world where you do not receive a passport stamp upon entry.

Fact 9.

No one is born in the Vatican, but it does have citizens. The fact that Vatican citizenship is not awarded at birth, but rather to individuals who work in the nation.

Fact 10.

The Vatican is the world’s only state on the UNESCO list. The Vatican has been listed as a UNESCO Cultural Heritage site.