Continent of Europe
The continent of Europe, known as Europe in English, is one of the world’s seven continents and is recognized as the second smallest continent in terms of area. It spans approximately 10,180,000 square kilometers and had a population of 740 million in 2016. Europe is often referred to as the “old continent,” representing the ancient world in contrast to the term “New World” that applies to North and South America following their discovery. Geographically, Europe is situated in the northern hemisphere, just above the equator.
Historically, Europe has played a pivotal role in modern global history; the continent has witnessed numerous significant events over the centuries. In the early 15th century, European powers dominated the Americas alongside many other nations worldwide. Europe was also the birthplace of the Industrial and Economic Revolutions, which subsequently spread throughout the globe, and its lands were the focal points of conflicts during World War I and World War II.
European Nations
The continent of Europe comprises 49 nations, each characterized by unique features that attract many visitors. These countries include: Albania, Andorra, Belarus, Belgium, Armenia, Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Croatia, France, Germany, Greece, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Hungary, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, North Macedonia, Malta, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Romania, San Marino, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and Vatican City. Additionally, there are countries that span both Europe and Asia: Azerbaijan, Russia, Turkey, Georgia, and Kazakhstan.
Vatican City: The Smallest Country in Europe
The Vatican City State, also known as the Holy See, holds the distinction of being the smallest independent nation in both Europe and the world, measured by both area and population. Vatican City operates with its own laws, flag, and even its own military. Its significance stems from being the papal residence for the Christian faith, serving as the spiritual center of the Roman Catholic Church globally.
As of 2011, the permanent population of Vatican City includes the Pope, the city’s sovereign, 71 Cardinals, 109 members of the Swiss Guard, 51 clergy, and one nun.
Vatican City was officially recognized as an independent state from Italy in 1929, marked by the signing of the Lateran Treaty between then-Pope Pius XI, represented by Pietro Gasparri, and Italian Prime Minister Benito Mussolini. This treaty established Vatican oversight over all churches and monasteries in Italy and granted the Vatican compensation totaling 92 million dollars.
The name “Vatican” derives from the hill on which it is located, known as Mons Vaticanus. The etymology can be traced to the Latin word vaticinari, meaning “to prophesy.” This is reflective of a historical presence of seers and priests in the area during Roman times. Meanwhile, the term “Holy See” comes from Greek, where the word “holy” is derived from hera, meaning sacred, and “see” originates from the Latin sedes, meaning seat, collectively indicating the episcopal seat.
Historical Landmarks in Vatican City
Vatican City is home to numerous historical and religious landmarks. Due to the significance of these sites, Vatican City was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984. Notable historical and religious landmarks within Vatican City include:
- St. Peter’s Square: This is the entry point for visitors to Vatican City. The square was constructed during the papacy of Alexander VII (1657-1667) and designed by the sculptor Bernini. It is surrounded by 248 columns arranged in four rows, topped by 140 statues of saints. At the center stands an Egyptian obelisk, 25.31 meters tall, brought from Egypt in 38 AD by Emperor Caligula.
- St. Peter’s Basilica: This is considered the most important church globally and a key landmark of Christianity. The basilica features numerous altars and architecturally captivating relics. Construction began in 1506, with the dome designed by the renowned artist Michelangelo, providing visitors one of the finest views of Rome.
- The Vatican Museums: This complex includes four museums: the Museo Pio-Clementino, the Museo Chiaramonti, the Museo Gregoriano Etrusco, and the Museo Gregoriano Egiziano, each housing distinct collections of art, paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. The museums were established under the patronage of two 18th-century popes: Clement XIV (1769-1774) and Pius VI (1775-1799).
History of Vatican City
Vatican City has a rich history dating back to ancient times. During the Roman era, the Romans established settlements around Vatican and constructed buildings for their use. Saint Peter, one of the twelve apostles, opposed this development but was martyred in the area around 64 AD. Today, his tomb remains a central point of the state. In 313 AD, the Christian faith was officially recognized, prompting Emperor Constantine to build a large church in Vatican City in 324 AD.
In 1870, with the unification of Italy, the Italian government took control over all territories belonging to the church, leading to significant disputes between the Catholic Church and the Italian state. Initially, the Church refused to acknowledge the Italian government, with Pope Pius IX declaring himself a prisoner of Vatican City and not leaving for nearly 60 years. The primary conflict stemmed from disagreements regarding political and religious governance.
On February 11, 1929, a resolution was reached between the Catholic Church and the Kingdom of Italy, culminating in the Lateran Treaty, which was formally ratified on June 7, 1929. This agreement recognized Vatican City as an independent state within Italy’s borders, enjoying full self-governance. Notably, Mussolini was the signatory of this accord with the Catholic Church, which also included compensation of 92 million dollars to the Church.