Difference between revisions of "Vatican City" - New World Encyclopedia

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[[Image:StPetersBasilicaEarlyMorning.jpg|thumb|300px|St. Peter's Square in the early morning.]]  
 
[[Image:StPetersBasilicaEarlyMorning.jpg|thumb|300px|St. Peter's Square in the early morning.]]  
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[[Image:Rome Vatican Museums.jpg|thumb|270px|Vatican Museums.]]
  
'''Vatican City''', officially '''State of the Vatican City''' ([[Latin]]: ''Status Civitatis Vaticanae''; {{lang-it|Stato della Città del Vaticano}}), is a [[landlocked]] [[sovereignty|sovereign]] [[city-state]] whose territory consists of a walled [[enclave]] within the city of [[Rome]]. At approximately 108.7 [[acres]]), it is the smallest independent nation in the world.
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'''Vatican City''', officially '''State of the Vatican City''' ([[Latin]]: ''Status Civitatis Vaticanae''), is a landlocked sovereign city-state whose territory consists of a walled enclave within the city of [[Rome]]. At approximately 108.7 acres, it is the smallest independent nation in the world.
  
It was created in 1929 by the [[Lateran Treaty]] as a vestige of the much larger [[Papal States]] (756 to 1870). Vatican City is a non-hereditary, elected [[monarch]]y that is ruled by the [[Bishop of Rome]] — the [[Pope]]. The highest state functionaries are all clergymen of the [[Catholic Church]]. It is the sovereign territory of the [[Holy See]] ([[Latin]]:''Sancta Sedes'') and the location of the [[Apostolic Palace]] — the Pope's official residence — and the [[Roman Curia]]. Thus, while the principal ecclesiastical seat (Cathedral) of the Pope as Bishop of Rome (the [[Basilica of St. John Lateran]]) is located outside of its walls, in Rome, Vatican City can be said to be the governmental capital of the Catholic Church.
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It was created in 1929 by the [[Lateran Treaty]] as a vestige of the much larger [[Papal States]] (756 to 1870 C.E.). Vatican City is a non-hereditary, elected [[monarch]]y that is ruled by the Bishop of Rome—the [[Pope]]. The highest state functionaries are all clergymen of the [[Catholic Church]]. It is the sovereign territory of the [[Holy See]] and the location of the Apostolic Palace—the Pope's official residence—and the Roman Curia. Thus, while the principal ecclesiastical seat of the Pope as Bishop of Rome (the [[Basilica of St. John Lateran]]) is located outside of its walls, Vatican City is the governmental capital of the Catholic Church.
  
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Vatican City is also home to cultural treasures such as [[St. Peter's Basilica]], the [[Sistine Chapel]] and the Vatican museums, featuring some of the world's most famous paintings and sculptures. It is thus one of the world's most popular [[tourism|tourist]] attractions and the site of many public appearances by the Roman Pontiff.
  
 
==Territory==
 
==Territory==
 
===Naming===
 
===Naming===
The name "Vatican" is ancient and predates [[Christianity]], coming from the Latin ''Mons Vaticanus'', [[Vatican Hill]]. The territory of Vatican City is part of the ''Mons Vaticanus'', and of the adjacent former Vatican Fields where [[St. Peter's Basilica]], the [[Apostolic Palace]], the [[Sistine Chapel]], and museums were built, along with various other buildings. The area was part of the Roman [[rione]] of [[borgo (rione of Rome)|Borgo]] until 1929. Being separated from the city, on the west bank of the [[Tiber]] river, the area was an outcrop of the city that was protected by being included within the walls of [[Pope Leo IV|Leo IV]], and later expanded by the current fortification walls of [[Pope Paul III|Paul III]]/[[Pius IV]]/[[Urban VIII]].
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The name "Vatican" is ancient and predates [[Christianity]], coming from the Latin ''Mons Vaticanus'', [[Vatican Hill]]. The territory of Vatican City includes part Vatican Hill and adjacent former fields where [[St. Peter's Basilica]], the [[Apostolic Palace]], the [[Sistine Chapel]], and Vatican museums now stand, along with various other buildings. The area was part of the Roman ward of Borgo until 1929. Separated from the main city on the west bank of the [[Tiber]] river, the area was an outcrop of the city protected by its inclusion within the walls built by [[Pope Leo IV|Leo IV]] (ninth century), and later expanded by the current fortified walls of [[Pope Paul III|Paul III]], [[Pius IV]], and [[Urban VIII]] in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.
  
 
===Lateran Treaty===
 
===Lateran Treaty===
When the [[Lateran Treaty]] of 1929 that gave the state its present form was being prepared, the boundaries of the proposed territory was influenced by the fact that much of it was all but enclosed by this loop. For some tracts of the frontier, there was no wall, but the line of certain buildings supplied part of the boundary, and for a small part of the frontier a modern wall was constructed. The territory included [[St. Peter's Square]], which was not possible to isolate from the rest of Rome, and therefore a largely imaginary border with Italy runs along the outer limit of the square where it touches on Piazza Pio XII and Via Paolo VI. St. Peter's Square is reached through the [[Via della Conciliazione]] which runs from the Tiber River to St. Peter's. This grand approach was constructed by Mussolini after the conclusion of the Lateran Treaty.
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When the [[Lateran Treaty]] of 1929 that gave the state its present form was being prepared, the boundaries of the proposed territory was influenced by the fact that much of it was all but enclosed by this loop. For some tracts of the frontier, there was no wall, [[Image:Vt-map.png|thumb|200px|left|Territory of Vatican City according to the Lateran treaty]] but the line of certain buildings supplied part of the boundary, and for a small part of the frontier a modern wall was constructed.
[[Image:VaticanCity_Annex.jpg|thumb|220px|left|Territory of Vatican City according to the [[Lateran treaty]].]]
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According to the Lateran Treaty, certain [[properties of the Holy See]] that are located in Italian territory, most notably [[Castel Gandolfo]] and the Patriarchal Basilicas, enjoy extraterritorial status similar to that of foreign [[embassy|embassies]]. These properties, scattered all over Rome and Italy, house essential offices and institutions necessary to the character and mission of the Holy See.
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The territory included [[St. Peter's Square]], which was not possible to isolate from the rest of Rome, and therefore a largely imaginary border with Italy runs along the outer limit of the square where it touches on Piazza Pio XII and Via Paolo VI. St. Peter's Square is reached through the [[Via della Conciliazione]] which runs from the Tiber River to St. Peter's. This grand approach was constructed by [[Mussolini]] after the conclusion of the Lateran Treaty.
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According to the Lateran Treaty, certain [[properties of the Holy See]] that are located in Italian territory, most notably [[Castel Gandolfo]] and the Patriarchal Basilicas, enjoy extraterritorial status similar to that of foreign [[embassy|embassies]]. These properties, scattered all over [[Rome]] and [[Italy]], house essential offices and institutions necessary to the character and mission of the Holy See.
  
 
===Head of State===
 
===Head of State===
[[Image:Vatican City.jpg|thumb|200px|caption]]
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[[Image:Pope Benedictus XVI january,20 2006 (2) mod.jpg|thumb|Pope Benedict XVI.]]
The [[Pope]] is ''ex officio'' [[head of state]] and [[head of government]] of Vatican City. He is simultaneously and primordially the bishop of the Diocese of Rome, and Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church. The term [[Holy See]] expresses the totality of his governance and pastoral ministry. His official title with regard to Vatican City is ''Sovereign of the State of the Vatican City''.  
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The [[Pope]] is ''ex officio'' head of state of the government of Vatican City. He is simultaneously the [[bishop]] of the Diocese of Rome and Supreme Pontiff of the [[Catholic Church]]. The term [[Holy See]] expresses the totality of his governance and pastoral ministry. His official title with regard to Vatican City is ''Sovereign of the State of the Vatican City''.  
  
The pope is a non-hereditary, elected [[monarch]] who exercises [[Absolute monarchy|absolute authority]], that is to say supreme [[legislative]], [[executive (government)|executive]] and [[judicial]] power over the Vatican City. He is the only absolute monarch in Europe. The pope is [[election|elected]] for a life term in [[conclave]] by [[Cardinal (Catholicism)|cardinals]] under the age of 80. His principal subordinate government officials for Vatican City are the [[Cardinal Secretary of State|Secretary of State]], the [[President of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State]], and the [[Governor of Vatican City]].  
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The pope is a non-hereditary, elected [[monarch]] who exercises absolute authority—supreme legislative, executive and judicial power over the Vatican City. He is the only absolute monarch in Europe. The pope is elected for a life term in [[conclave]] by cardinals under the age of 80. His principal subordinate government officials for Vatican City are the Secretary of State, the President of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State, and the Governor of Vatican City.  
  
The [[as of 2006|current]] Pope is [[Pope Benedict XVI|Benedict XVI]], born Joseph Ratzinger in [[Germany]]. [[Tarcisio Cardinal Bertone]] of [[Italy]] is the [[Cardinal Secretary of State|Secretary of State]]. Italian Archbishop [[Giovanni Lajolo]] serves as both the President of the Pontifical Commission and Governor. Both Bertone and Lajolo were appointed by Pope Benedict in September 2006.
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The current Pope, as of 2007, is [[Pope Benedict XVI|Benedict XVI]], born Joseph Ratzinger in [[Germany]]. [[Tarcisio Cardinal Bertone]] of [[Italy]] is the Secretary of State. Italian Archbishop [[Giovanni Lajolo]] serves as both the President of the Pontifical Commission and Governor. Both Bertone and Lajolo were appointed by Pope Benedict in September 2006.
  
 
==History==
 
==History==
 
===Ancient origins===
 
===Ancient origins===
Even before the arrival of [[Christianity]], it is supposed that this originally uninhabited part of [[Rome]] (the ''ager vaticanus'') had long been considered sacred, or at least not available for habitation. The area was also the site of worship to the Phrygian goddess [[Cybele]] and her consort [[Attis]] during Roman times.<ref>[http://mv.vatican.va/3_EN/pages/x-Schede/MGEs/MGEs_Sala16_03_040.html Altar of Cybele], Vatican Museum retrieved June 31, 2006</ref> [[Agrippina the Elder]] (14 B.C.E. – October 18, c.e. 33) drained the hill and environs and built her gardens there in the early first century C.E.. Emperor [[Caligula]] (37-41) started construction of a circus (40) that was later completed by Nero, the ''Circus Gaii et Neronis''.<ref>Lanciani, Rodolfo (1892).</ref>
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Even before the arrival of [[Christianity]], it is supposed that this originally uninhabited part of [[Rome]] (the ''ager vaticanus'') had long been considered sacred, or at least not available for habitation. The area was also the site of worship to the Phrygian goddess [[Cybele]] and her consort [[Attis]] during Roman times.<ref>[http://mv.vatican.va/3_EN/pages/x-Schede/MGEs/MGEs_Sala16_03_040.html Altar of Cybele in Vatican Museum]. mv.vatican.va. Retrieved June 10, 2007.</ref> [[Agrippina the Elder]] (14 B.C.E.-33 C.E.) drained the hill and environs and built her gardens there in the early first century C.E. Emperor [[Caligula]] (37-41 C.E.) started construction of a ''circus'', (circle) that was later completed by Nero, the ''Circus Gaii et Neronis''.
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[[Image:Vatican Piazza San Pietro Obelisk.jpg|thumb|200px|The Vatican obelisk was originally taken from Egypt by Caligula.]]
  
The Vatican obelisk was originally taken by Caligula from [[Heliopolis]] to decorate the spina of his circus and is thus its last visible remnant. This area became the site of martyrdom of many Christians after the [[great fire of Rome]] in 64. Ancient tradition holds that it was in this circus that [[Saint Peter]] was crucified upside down. Opposite the circus was a cemetery separated by the [[Via Cornelia]]. Funeral monuments and mausoleums and small tombs as well as altars to pagan gods of all kinds of polytheistic religions were constructed lasting until before the construction of the Constantinian Basilica of St. Peter's in the first half of the [[fourth century]]. Remains of this ancient [[necropolis]] were brought to light sporadically during renovations by various popes throughout the centuries increasing in frequency during the [[Renaissance]] until it was systematically excavated by orders of [[Pope Pius XII]] from 1939 to 1941.
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The Vatican obelisk was originally taken by Caligula from [[Heliopolis]] to decorate the spina of his circus and is thus its last visible remnant. This area became the site of martyrdom of many Christians after the [[great fire of Rome]] in 64. Ancient tradition holds that it was in this circus that [[Saint Peter]] was crucified upside down. Opposite the circus was a cemetery separated by the ''Via Cornelia.'' Funeral monuments, mausoleums, and small tombs as well as altars to pagan gods, were constructed lasting until just prior to the erection of the Constantinian Basilica of St. Peter's in the first half of the fourth century. Remains of this ancient necropolis were brought to light sporadically during renovations by various popes throughout the centuries increasing in frequency during the [[Renaissance]] until it was systematically excavated by orders of [[Pope Pius XII]] from 1939 to 1941.
  
 
===Earliest church===
 
===Earliest church===
In 326 C.E., the first church, the Constantinian basilica, was built over the site that Catholic apologists as well as noted [[Italy|Italian]] archaeologists argue was the tomb of Saint Peter, buried in a common cemetery on the spot. From then on the area started to become more populated, but mostly only by dwelling houses connected with the activity of St. Peter's. A palace was constructed near the site of the basilica as early as the fifth century during the pontificate of [[Pope Symmachus]] (born, ?? – died, July 19, 514; pope, 498-514.)
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In 326 C.E., the first church, the Constantinian Basilica, was built over the site that is believed to be the tomb of Saint Peter, buried in a common cemetery on the spot. From then on the area started to become more populated, but mostly by common dwelling houses. A palace was constructed near the site of the basilica as early as the fifth century during the pontificate of [[Pope Symmachus]] (reigned 498-514).
  
Popes in their secular role gradually came to govern neighboring regions and, through the [[Papal States]], ruled a large portion of the [[Italy|Italian peninsula]] for more than a thousand years until the mid-nineteenth century, when most of the territory of the Papal States was seized by the [[Italian unification|newly created]] Kingdom of Italy. For much of this time the Vatican was not the habitual residence of the Popes, but rather the [[Lateran Palace]], and in recent centuries, the [[Quirinal Palace]], while the residence from 1309-1377 was at [[Avignon]] in [[France]].
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Popes in their secular role gradually came to govern neighboring regions and, through the [[Papal States]], ruled a large portion of the [[Italy|Italian peninsula]] for more than a thousand years until the mid-nineteenth century, when most of the territory of the Papal States was seized by the newly created [[Kingdom of Italy]]. For much of this time the Vatican was not the habitual residence of the Popes, who lived at the [[Lateran Palace]] and, in recent centuries, the [[Quirinal Palace]]. The papal residence from 1309-1377 was at [[Avignon]] in [[France]].
  
 
===Papal holdings unresolved===
 
===Papal holdings unresolved===
In 1870, the Pope's holdings were left in an uncertain situation when [[Rome]] itself was annexed by the [[Piedmont]]-led forces which had united the rest of Italy. After a nominal resistance by the papal forces. Between 1861 and 1929 the status of the pope was referred to as the "[[Roman Question]]." They were undisturbed in their palace, and given certain recognitions by the [[Law of Guarantees]], including the right to send and receive ambassadors. But they did not recognize the Italian king's right to rule in Rome, and they [[prisoner in the Vatican|refused to leave the Vatican compound]] until the dispute was resolved in 1929. Other states continued to maintain international recognition of the Holy See as a sovereign entity.   
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In 1870, the [[Pope]]'s holdings were left in an uncertain situation when [[Rome]] itself was annexed by the [[Piedmont]]-led forces which had united the rest of Italy. Between 1861 and 1929 the status of the Pope was referred to as the "Roman Question." The popes were undisturbed in their Vatican palace, and given certain recognition by the Law of Guarantees, including the right to send and receive ambassadors. But they did not recognize the [[Italy|Italian]] king's right to rule in Rome, and they refused to leave the Vatican compound until the dispute was resolved in 1929. Other states continued to maintain international recognition of the [[Holy See]] as a sovereign entity.  
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[[Image:St peters vat distance.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Mussolini demolished medieval housing to create the ''Via della Conciliazione'', leading to [[St. Peter's Square]].]]
  
In practice, Italy made no attempt to interfere with the Holy See within the Vatican walls. However, they confiscated church property in many other places, including, perhaps most notably, the [[Quirinal Palace]], formerly the pope's official residence. [[Pope Pius IX]] (1846-1878), the last ruler of the Papal States, claimed that after Rome was annexed he was a "Prisoner in the Vatican." This situation was resolved on February 11, 1929 between the Holy See and the Kingdom of Italy.
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In practice, Italy made no attempt to interfere with the Holy See within the Vatican walls. However, they confiscated church property in many other places, including, perhaps most notably, the [[Quirinal Palace]], formerly the pope's official residence. [[Pope Pius IX]] (1846-1878), the last ruler of the Papal States, claimed that after Rome was annexed he was a "Prisoner in the Vatican."
  
===Treaty signing===
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===Lateran Treaty===
The treaty was signed by [[Benito Mussolini]] and Pietro Cardinal Gasparri in behalf of King [[Victor Emmanuel III ]] and [[Pope Pius XI]] (1922-1939), respectively. The [[Lateran Treaty]] and the Concordat established the independent State of the Vatican City and granted [[Roman Catholicism|Catholicism]] special status in Italy. In 1984, a new [[concordat]] between the Holy See and Italy modified certain provisions of the earlier treaty, including the position of Catholicism as the Italian state religion.
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This situation was finally resolved on February 11, 1929 in an agreement between the Holy See and the Kingdom of [[Italy]]. The treaty was signed by [[Benito Mussolini]] and Pietro Cardinal Gasparri in behalf of King [[Victor Emmanuel III ]] and [[Pope Pius XI]] (1922-1939), respectively. The [[Lateran Treaty]] and the Concordat established the independent State of the Vatican City and granted [[Roman Catholicism|Catholicism]] special status in Italy. In 1984, a new [[concordat]] between the Holy See and Italy modified certain provisions of the earlier treaty, including the position of [[Catholicism]] as the Italian state religion.
  
 
== Government ==
 
== Government ==
 
=== Political system ===
 
=== Political system ===
For historical reasons, the government of Vatican City has a unique structure. As noted, the principal figures are the [[Cardinal Secretary of State|Secretary of State]], the President of the [[Pontifical Commission for the Vatican City State]], and the [[Governor of Vatican City]]. These, like all other officials, are appointed by the Pope and can be dismissed by him at any time.
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For historical reasons, the government of Vatican City has a unique structure. As noted, the principal figures are the Secretary of State, the President of the Pontifical Commission for the Vatican City State, and the Governor of Vatican City. These, like all other officials, are appointed by the Pope and can be dismissed by him at any time.
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[[Image:Holysee-arms.png|thumb|Coat of arms of the Holy See.]]
  
During a ''[[sede vacante]]'' (papal vacancy), the [[Camerlengo|Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church]], former Secretary of State, and former President of the Pontifical Commission form a commission that performs some of the functions of the head of state; while another made up of the Chamberlain and three cardinals (one being chosen by lot every three days from each order of cardinals), performs other functions of the head of state. All decisions of these commissions must be approved by the [[College of Cardinals]].
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During a papal vacancy, the Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church, former Secretary of State, and former President of the Pontifical Commission form a commission that performs some of the functions of the head of state; while another made up of the Chamberlain and three cardinals (one being chosen by lot every three days from each order of cardinals), performs other functions of the head of state. All decisions of these commissions must be approved by the [[College of Cardinals]].
[[Image:St peters vat distance.jpg|thumb|right|300px|[[Benito Mussolini|Mussolini]] demolished a spina of medieval housing to create an avenue, called ''Via della Conciliazione'', leading into [[St. Peter's Square]].]]
 
[[Image:Poste Vaticane.JPG|thumb|right|150px|The stamp vending machine of the Vatican Postal Service]]
 
  
The State of the Vatican City, as created by the [[Lateran Treaty]], enables the [[Holy See]] (the Diocese of Rome) to exist with a temporal jurisdiction, territorial identity, recognition, and independence within a small territory as a true nation-state in the eyes of other nations after the loss of the Papal States in 1870. The Vatican City State is not the Holy See. The Vatican City can thus be deemed a significant but not essential constituent entity of the Holy See. The Holy See has existed continuously as a juridical entity since Roman Imperial times and had been recognized by other sovereigns, nations and foreign powers as a powerful and independent sovereign (even [[suzerain]]) entity since late antiquity to the present, even during periods when it held no territory (e.g. 1870 to 1929).
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The State of the Vatican City, as created by the [[Lateran Treaty]], enables the [[Holy See]] to exist with a temporal jurisdiction, territorial identity, recognition, and independence within a small territory as a true nation-state in the eyes of other nations after the loss of the Papal States in 1870. The Vatican City State is not synonymous with the Holy See. It is a significant but not essential constituent entity of it. The Holy See has existed continuously as a juridical entity since Roman Imperial times and had been recognized by other sovereigns, nations and foreign powers as a powerful and independent sovereign entity since late antiquity to the present, even during periods when it held no territory (e.g. 1870 to 1929).
  
The Holy See has the oldest active continuous diplomatic representation or service in the world, dating back to at least 325 C.E. with its legation to the [[Council of Nicea]]. Indeed, other nations have their diplomatic relations with the Holy See, never the Vatican City State. Thus, as far as the nation-state of the Vatican is concerned, its Head of State, the Sovereign of the State of the Vatican City, is the pope. As far as it is concerned, the pope is its absolute monarch — who just happens to be a bishop.  
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The Holy See has the oldest active continuous diplomatic representation or service in the world, dating back to at least 325 C.E. with its legation to the [[Council of Nicea]]. Indeed, other nations have their diplomatic relations with the Holy See, never the Vatican City State.
  
 
===Church hierarchy===
 
===Church hierarchy===
The hierarchy of the Catholic Church as governed by the [[Holy See]] is the proper ecclesiastical government. This is not necessarily the case for the Vatican City State. In fact, prior to the reforms made by [[Pope Paul VI]] (born, September 26, 1897 – died, August 6, 1978; pope, June 21, 1963 – August 6, 1978), a large number of nobles existed within the government of the Vatican. A noble class still exists today that continues to form part of the papal court drawn from the ranks of Roman and European nobility (see [[Papal Gentlemen]], [[Master of the Horse#Papal Master of the Horse|Papal Master of the Horse]], [[Prefecture for the Pontifical Household]], [[Hereditary Officers of the Roman Curia]]). The size of the papal court, however, had been reduced to a great extent after the reforms made by Pope Paul VI (the Papal Court was reformed by the Bull Pontificalis Domus of 1969)<ref>[http://www.chivalricorders.org/vatican/pplcourt.htm Hereditary Officers of the Papal Court]</ref>.
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Prior to reforms made by [[Pope Paul VI]] (reigned 1963-1978), a large number of nobles existed within the government of the Vatican. A noble class still exists today and continues to form part of the papal court. The size of the papal court, however, had been reduced.
  
All cardinals, however, continue to have the royal rank of prince of the blood. Its royal character is a vestige of the temporal power of the popes who have ruled the [[Papal States]] for more than a thousand years and, prior to the Papal States, as the highest civil and religious authority of the Roman and Byzantine empires in Rome since late antiquity. Therefore, within this context, the State of the Vatican City is a true, although elected, monarchy in every sense of the word.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.catholic-pages.com/vatican/vatican_city.asp|accessdate=2007-03-04|title=Vatican City|work=Catholic-Pages.com}}</ref>
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All cardinals, however, continue to have the royal rank of "prince of the blood." The rank's royal character is a vestige of the temporal power of the popes who ruled the [[Papal States]] for more than a thousand years and, prior to the Papal States, as the highest civil and religious authority of the [[Rome|Roman]] and [[Byzantine]] empires in Rome since late antiquity. Therefore, within this context, the State of the Vatican City is a true, although elected, [[monarchy]] in every sense of the word.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.catholic-pages.com/vatican/vatican_city.asp|accessdate=March 4, 2007|title=Vatican City|work=Catholic-Pages.com}}</ref>
  
 
=== Administration ===
 
=== Administration ===
The Governor of Vatican City, sometimes known as the President of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City, has duties similar to those of a [[mayor]] or city executive, concentrating on material questions concerning the state's territory, including local security, but excluding external relations. The Vatican City maintains two modern security corps, the [[Swiss Guard]]s, a voluntary military force drawn from male Swiss citizens, and the ''Corpo della Vigilanza dello Stato della Città del Vaticano''.
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The Governor of Vatican City, sometimes known as the President of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City, has duties similar to those of a [[mayor]] or city executive, concentrating on material questions concerning the state's territory, including local security, but excluding external relations.  
  
Legislative power is vested in the [[Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State]], led by a president. Members are cardinals appointed by the pope for terms of five years.
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Legislative power is vested in the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State, led by a president. Members are cardinals appointed by the pope for terms of five years.
  
The judicial functions are handled by three tribunals — the [[Apostolic Signatura]], the [[Sacra Rota Romana]], and the [[Apostolic Penitentiary]], which are also the judicial arm of the Holy See (see below). The legal system is based on canon, or ecclesiastical, law; if [[Canon law (Catholic Church)|Canon Law]] is not applicable, special laws of the territory apply, often modelled on Italian provisions.
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The judicial functions are handled by three tribunals—the Apostolic Signatura, the Sacra Rota Romana, and the Apostolic Penitentiary, which are also the judicial arm of the Holy See (see below). The legal system is based on canon, or ecclesiastical, law; if [[Canon law (Catholic Church)|Canon Law]] is not applicable, special laws of the territory apply, often modeled on Italian provisions.
[[Image:Vatican 2.jpg|thumb|right|250px|The Swiss Guard]]
 
  
 
=== Military ===
 
=== Military ===
The Vatican City State has the distinction of having the smallest and oldest regular army in the world, the [[Swiss Guard]]. It was founded by Pope Julius II on January 22, 1506, and originally made up of Swiss mercenaries from the Swiss Confederation. They currently number a little over 100 men and are also the personal bodyguards of the Pope. Recruitment is restricted to Catholic, male, Swiss citizens.
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[[Image:Vatican 2.jpg|thumb|right|200px|A member of the Swiss Guard at his post.]]
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The Vatican City State has the distinction of having the smallest and oldest regular army in the world, the [[Swiss Guard]]. It was founded by Pope Julius II on January 22, 1506, and originally made up of Swiss mercenaries from the Swiss Confederation. They currently number a little over 100 men and are also the personal bodyguards of the Pope. Recruitment is restricted to Catholic, male, [[Switzerland|Swiss]] citizens.
  
The [[Palatine Guard]] and the [[Noble Guard]] were disbanded during the reign of Pope Paul VI in 1970, while the [[Corpo della Gendarmeria]] acts as the internal police force. Its full name is ''Corpo della Gendarmeria dello Stato della Città del Vaticano'' although it is sometimes still referred to as  ''Vigilanza'', which is a shortening of an earlier name.
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The [[Palatine Guard]] and the [[Noble Guard]] were disbanded during the reign of Pope Paul VI in 1970, while the [[Corpo della Gendarmeria]] acts as the internal police force. Its full name is ''Corpo della Gendarmeria dello Stato della Città del Vaticano''.
  
 
External defense is handled by the surrounding state of Italy, since the Vatican has no navy and no air force.
 
External defense is handled by the surrounding state of Italy, since the Vatican has no navy and no air force.
  
 
=== Communications ===
 
=== Communications ===
Vatican City has its own post office, fire brigade, police service, commissary (supermarket), bank (the [[automatic teller machine]]s offer customers service in [[Latin language|Latin]], among other languages), railway station, electricity generating plant, and [[publishing house]]. The Vatican also controls its own Internet domain ([[.va]]).
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Vatican City has its own post office, fire brigade, police service, commissary (supermarket), bank, railway station, electric plant, and publishing house. The Vatican also controls its own Internet domain (.va).
 
 
[[Vatican Radio]], which was organized by [[Guglielmo Marconi]] himself, today offers short- medium- and long-wave and broadband service around the world. The Vatican has also been given a radio [[ITU prefix]], HV, and this is sometimes used by [[amateur radio]] operators.  Transmission antennae are located in Italian territory. Television services are provided through another entity, the Vatican Television Center.<ref>http://www.vaticanradio.org/inglese/enindex.html</ref>
 
 
 
''[[L'Osservatore Romano]]'' is the semi-official newspaper, published daily in Italian, and weekly in English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, and French (plus a monthly edition in Polish). It is published by a private corporation under the direction of Catholic laymen but carries official information. ''Acta Apostolicae Sedis'' is the official publication of the Holy See, carrying the official texts of Church documents, but is little read other than by scholars and Church professionals. Official documents are also available on the [http://www.vatican.va Vatican web site].
 
  
== Geography ==
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Vatican Radio, which was originally organized by [[Guglielmo Marconi]], today offers short- medium- and long-wave and broadband service around the world. The Vatican has also been given a radio ITU prefix, HV, and this is sometimes used by amateur radio operators. Transmission antennae are located in Italian territory. Television services are provided through another entity, the Vatican Television Center.
[[Image:Vt-map.png|thumb|200px|Map of Vatican City]]
 
The Vatican City, one of the [[European microstates]], is situated on the Vatican Hill in the west-central part of Rome, several thousand west of the [[Tiber]] river. Its two miles of borders, all within Italy, closely follow the [[city wall]] constructed to protect the Pope from outside attack. The situation is more complex at the famous [[Saint Peter's Square|St. Peter's Square]] in front of [[St. Peter's Basilica]], where the correct border is just outside the ellipse formed by [[Gian Lorenzo Bernini|Bernini]]'s colonnade, but where police jurisdiction has been entrusted to Italy. The Vatican City is the smallest sovereign state in the world at 108.7 [[acre]]s).
 
  
The Vatican [[climate]] is the same as Rome's; a temperate, Mediterranean climate with mild, rainy winters from September to mid-May and hot, dry summers from May to August. There are some local features, principally mists and dews, caused by the anomalous bulk of St Peter's Basilica, the elevation, the fountains and the size of the large paved square.
+
''L'Osservatore Romano'' is the semi-official Vatican newspaper, published daily in Italian, and weekly in English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, and French (plus a monthly edition in Polish). It is published by a private corporation under the direction of Catholic laymen but carries official information. ''Acta Apostolicae Sedis'' is the official publication of the Holy See, carrying the official texts of Church documents, but is little read other than by scholars and Church professionals. Official documents are also available on the Vatican website.<ref>[http://www.vatican.va Vatican web site], Vatican Web Site. Retrieved April 14, 2008.</ref>
  
 
== Economy ==
 
== Economy ==
The unique, non-commercial economy is supported financially by contributions (part of which is known as [[Peter's Pence]]) from Catholics throughout the world, the sale of postage stamps and tourist mementos, fees for admission to museums, and the sale of publications.
+
[[Image:Poste Vaticane.JPG|thumb|right|150px|The stamp vending machine of the Vatican Postal Service]]
 +
The unique economy of Vatican City is supported financially by contributions (part of which is known as [[Peter's Pence]]) from [[Catholic]]s throughout the world, the sale of postage stamps and [[tourism|tourist]] mementos, fees for admission to museums, and the sale of publications.
  
The Vatican City [[Vatican euro coins|issues its own coins]]. It has used the [[euro]] as its currency since January 1, 1999, owing to a special agreement with the [[EU]] (council decision 1999/98/CE). Euro coins and notes were introduced in January 1, 2002—the Vatican does not issue euro banknotes. Issuance of euro-denominated coins are strictly limited by treaty, though somewhat more than usual is allowed in a year in which there is a change in the papacy. Because of their rarity, Vatican euro coins are highly sought by collectors. Until the adoption of the Euro, Vatican coinage and stamps were denominated in their own Vatican lira currency, which was on par with the Italian [[lira]].
+
The Vatican City issues its own coins. It has used the [[euro]] as its currency since January 1, 1999, owing to a special agreement with the [[EU]] (council decision 1999/98/CE). Euro coins and notes were introduced in January 1, 2002—the Vatican does not issue euro banknotes. Issuance of euro-denominated coins are strictly limited by treaty, though somewhat more than usual is allowed in a year in which there is a change in the papacy. Because of their rarity, Vatican euro coins are highly sought by collectors. Until the adoption of the Euro, Vatican coinage and stamps were denominated in their own Vatican lira currency, which was on par with the Italian [[lira]].
  
 
It also has its own bank, Istituto per le Opere di Religione (also known as the [[Vatican Bank]], and with the acronym IOR).
 
It also has its own bank, Istituto per le Opere di Religione (also known as the [[Vatican Bank]], and with the acronym IOR).
Line 100: Line 104:
  
 
== Demographics ==
 
== Demographics ==
 
 
=== Population and languages ===
 
=== Population and languages ===
 
Almost all of Vatican City's 558 citizens either live inside the Vatican's walls or serve in the Vatican's diplomatic corps in embassies (called "nunciatures"; a papal ambassador is a "nuncio") around the world. The Vatican citizenry consists almost entirely of two groups: [[clergy]] working as officials of the Vatican as a state or of the Catholic Church; and the  Swiss Guard. Most of the 3,000 lay workers who comprise the majority of the Vatican work force reside outside the Vatican and are citizens of Italy, while a few are citizens of other nations. As a result, all of the City's actual citizens are [[Roman Catholic Church|Catholic]]. Catholicism is the state religion. All the places of worship inside Vatican City are Catholic.
 
Almost all of Vatican City's 558 citizens either live inside the Vatican's walls or serve in the Vatican's diplomatic corps in embassies (called "nunciatures"; a papal ambassador is a "nuncio") around the world. The Vatican citizenry consists almost entirely of two groups: [[clergy]] working as officials of the Vatican as a state or of the Catholic Church; and the  Swiss Guard. Most of the 3,000 lay workers who comprise the majority of the Vatican work force reside outside the Vatican and are citizens of Italy, while a few are citizens of other nations. As a result, all of the City's actual citizens are [[Roman Catholic Church|Catholic]]. Catholicism is the state religion. All the places of worship inside Vatican City are Catholic.
  
The Vatican has no set official language, it can be changed at any moment by the current Pope. The language most often used for the authoritative version of official documents of the Catholic Church or emanating from the Pope is [[Latin]]. However, [[Italian language|Italian]] and, to a lesser extent, other languages are generally used for most conversations, publications, and broadcasts and most documents or other communications dealing directly with the Vatican as a state are most easily available in Italian. [[German language|German]] is the official language of the Swiss Guard. The Vatican's official website languages are Italian, German, [[English language|English]], [[French language|French]], [[Spanish language|Spanish]], and [[Portuguese language|Portuguese]].
+
The Vatican has no set official language, it can be changed at any moment by the current [[Pope]]. The language most often used for the authoritative version of official documents of the Catholic Church or emanating from the Pope is [[Latin]]. However, [[Italian language|Italian]] and, to a lesser extent, other languages are generally used for most conversations, publications, and broadcasts and most documents or other communications dealing directly with the Vatican as a state are most easily available in Italian. [[German language|German]] is the official language of the Swiss Guard. The Vatican's official website languages are Italian, German, [[English language|English]], [[French language|French]], [[Spanish language|Spanish]], and [[Portuguese language|Portuguese]].
  
 
=== Citizenship ===
 
=== Citizenship ===
Citizenship of the [[Vatican City]] is granted ''ius officii'', which means it is conferred upon some of those who have been appointed to work in certain capacities at the Vatican, and it is usually revoked upon the termination of their employment. During the period of employment citizenship may also be extended to a Vatican citizen's spouse (unless the [[marriage]] is annulled or dissolved, or if a conjugal separation is decreed) and children (until they turn 25 if they are capable of working, or in the case of daughters, if they marry). Terms of citizenship are defined in the [[Lateran Treaty]], and laws concerning the creation of the Vatican state in 1929 sought to restrict the number of people who could be granted Vatican citizenship. The only [[passports]] issued by the Vatican are diplomatic passports.
+
Citizenship of Vatican City is conferred upon some of those who have been appointed to work in certain capacities at the Vatican, and it is usually revoked upon the termination of their employment. During the period of employment citizenship may also be extended to a Vatican citizen's spouse. Terms of citizenship are defined in the [[Lateran Treaty]], and laws concerning the creation of the Vatican state in 1929 sought to restrict the number of people who could be granted Vatican citizenship. The only [[passports]] issued by the Vatican are diplomatic passports.
  
 
As of December 31, 2005, of the 558 people with Vatican citizenship, 246 were dual-citizens of other countries (the majority being Italian). The Lateran Treaty provides that in the event a Vatican citizen has his or her original nationality revoked and also loses Vatican citizenship, he or she will be automatically granted Italian citizenship.
 
As of December 31, 2005, of the 558 people with Vatican citizenship, 246 were dual-citizens of other countries (the majority being Italian). The Lateran Treaty provides that in the event a Vatican citizen has his or her original nationality revoked and also loses Vatican citizenship, he or she will be automatically granted Italian citizenship.
  
* The Pope;
+
Vatican citizenship list (2005):
 +
* The [[Pope]];
 
* 58 cardinals;
 
* 58 cardinals;
 
* 293 members of the clergy who serve as diplomatic envoys abroad;
 
* 293 members of the clergy who serve as diplomatic envoys abroad;
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== Foreign relations ==
 
== Foreign relations ==
Providing a territorial identity for the Holy See, Vatican City State is a recognized national territory under international law. However, it is the Holy See that is the legal body that conducts diplomatic relations for the Vatican City in addition to the Holy See's usual [[diplomacy]], entering into international agreements and both receiving and sending diplomatic representatives. Because of the very limited territory of the Vatican state, foreign embassies to the Holy See are located in the Italian part of Rome; Italy actually hosts its own Embassy of Italy.
+
Providing a territorial identity for the Holy See, Vatican City State is a recognized national territory under international law. However, it is the Holy See that is the legal body that conducts diplomatic relations for the Vatican City in addition to the Holy See's usual [[diplomacy]], entering into international agreements and both receiving and sending diplomatic representatives. Because of the very limited territory of the Vatican state, foreign embassies to the Holy See are located in the Italian part of [[Rome]]; [[Italy]] actually hosts its own Embassy of Italy.
  
The Holy See is currently the only European political entity that has formal diplomatic relations with the [[Republic of China]] ([[Taiwan
+
The Holy See is currently the only European political entity that has formal diplomatic relations with [[Taiwan]].
  
Despite its minuscule size, as the veritable headquarters of the Catholic Church, the Vatican's influence on world affairs is disproportionately immense by virtue of its moral and spiritual authority<ref>[http://www.population-security.org/issue_s.htm Vatican influence on the United Nations, the World Health Organization and other international agencies.] retrieved March 16, 2007</ref>.
+
Despite its minuscule size, as the veritable headquarters of the [[Catholic Church]], the Vatican's influence on world affairs is disproportionately immense by virtue of its moral and spiritual authority.<ref>[http://www.population-security.org/issue_s.htm Vatican influence on the United Nations, the World Health Organization and other international agencies.] ''www.population-security.org''. Retrieved March 16, 2007.</ref>
  
[[Image:Rome Vatican Museums.jpg|thumb|left|300px|Vatican Museum]]
+
== Culture ==
 +
[[Image:Chapelle sixtine plafond.jpg|thumb|250px|Detail of the Sistine Chapel ceiling.]]
  
== Culture ==
+
The Vatican City is itself of great cultural significance. Buildings such as [[St. Peter's Basilica]] and the [[Sistine Chapel]] are home to some of the most famous art in the world, which includes works by artists such as [[Sandro Botticelli|Botticelli]], [[Gian Lorenzo Bernini|Bernini]], and [[Michelangelo]]. The [[Vatican Library]] and the collections of the [[Vatican Museums]] are of the highest historical, scientific, and cultural importance. In 1984, the Vatican was added by [[UNESCO]] to the List of [[World Heritage Site]]s; it is the only one to consist of an entire country. Furthermore, it is the only site to date registered with UNESCO as a ''centre containing monuments'' in the "International Register of Cultural Property under Special Protection" according to the 1954 Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict.
{{main|Culture of the Vatican City}}
 
The Vatican City is itself of great cultural significance. Buildings such as St. Peter's Basilica and the [[Sistine Chapel]] are home to some of the most famous art in the world, which includes works by artists such as [[Sandro Botticelli|Botticelli]], [[Gian Lorenzo Bernini|Bernini]] and [[Michelangelo]]. The [[Vatican Library]] and the collections of the [[Vatican Museums]] are of the highest historical, scientific and cultural importance. In 1984, the Vatican was added by [[UNESCO]] to the List of [[World Heritage Site]]s; it is the only one to consist of an entire country. Furthermore, it is the only site to date registered with the UNESCO as a ''centre containing monuments'' in the "International Register of Cultural Property under Special Protection" according to the 1954 [[Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict]].
 
  
 
==Notes==
 
==Notes==
Line 137: Line 140:
  
 
==References==
 
==References==
*Fox, Martha Capwell. ''Modern Nations of the World—The Vatican City'', Lucent Books, 2005. ISBN 978-1590187333
+
*Fox, Martha Capwell. ''Modern Nations of the World—The Vatican City''. Lucent Books, 2005. ISBN 9781590187333
*Lo Bello, Nino. ''The Incredible Book of Vatican Facts and Papal Curiosities'', Grammercy, 20002. ISBN 978-05172220832
+
*Lo Bello, Nino. ''The Incredible Book of Vatican Facts and Papal Curiosities''. Grammercy, 20002. ISBN 97805172220832
*Marchant, Piers. ''How to Be Pope: What to Do and Where to Go Once You're in the Vatican'', Chronicle Books, 2005. ISBN 978-0811852210
+
*Marchant, Piers. ''How to Be Pope: What to Do and Where to Go Once You're in the Vatican''. Chronicle Books, 2005. ISBN 9780811852210
*Roncalli, Francesco. ''Vatican City'', Treasures Inc., 1996. ISBN 978-8886921077
+
*Roncalli, Francesco. ''Vatican City''. Treasures Inc., 1996. ISBN 9788886921077
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
*{{sisterlinks | Vatican City}}
 
*[http://www.vatican.va/ The Holy See — The Vatican's Official Website]
 
  
 +
*[http://www.vatican.va/ The Holy See—The Vatican's Official Website] ''www.vatican.va''. Retrieved June 19, 2007.
 +
*[http://mv.vatican.va/3_EN/pages/x-Schede/MGEs/MGEs_Sala16_03_040.html Altar of Cybele] ''mv.vatican.va''. Retrieved June 19, 2007.
 +
*[http://www.catholic-pages.com/vatican/vatican_city.asp Vatican City] ''www.catholic-pages.com''. Retrieved June 19, 2007.
 +
*[http://www.population-security.org/issue_s.htm Vatican influence on the United Nations, the World Health Organization and other international agencies.] ''www.population-security.org''. Retrieved June 18, 2007.
  
 +
{{credit|120017111}}
  
<!--Categories—>
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[[Category:Geography]]
[[Category:nations and places]]
 
{{credit|120017111}}
 

Revision as of 22:41, 14 April 2008


St. Peter's Square in the early morning.
Vatican Museums.

Vatican City, officially State of the Vatican City (Latin: Status Civitatis Vaticanae), is a landlocked sovereign city-state whose territory consists of a walled enclave within the city of Rome. At approximately 108.7 acres, it is the smallest independent nation in the world.

It was created in 1929 by the Lateran Treaty as a vestige of the much larger Papal States (756 to 1870 C.E.). Vatican City is a non-hereditary, elected monarchy that is ruled by the Bishop of Rome—the Pope. The highest state functionaries are all clergymen of the Catholic Church. It is the sovereign territory of the Holy See and the location of the Apostolic Palace—the Pope's official residence—and the Roman Curia. Thus, while the principal ecclesiastical seat of the Pope as Bishop of Rome (the Basilica of St. John Lateran) is located outside of its walls, Vatican City is the governmental capital of the Catholic Church.

Vatican City is also home to cultural treasures such as St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican museums, featuring some of the world's most famous paintings and sculptures. It is thus one of the world's most popular tourist attractions and the site of many public appearances by the Roman Pontiff.

Territory

Naming

The name "Vatican" is ancient and predates Christianity, coming from the Latin Mons Vaticanus, Vatican Hill. The territory of Vatican City includes part Vatican Hill and adjacent former fields where St. Peter's Basilica, the Apostolic Palace, the Sistine Chapel, and Vatican museums now stand, along with various other buildings. The area was part of the Roman ward of Borgo until 1929. Separated from the main city on the west bank of the Tiber river, the area was an outcrop of the city protected by its inclusion within the walls built by Leo IV (ninth century), and later expanded by the current fortified walls of Paul III, Pius IV, and Urban VIII in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.

Lateran Treaty

When the Lateran Treaty of 1929 that gave the state its present form was being prepared, the boundaries of the proposed territory was influenced by the fact that much of it was all but enclosed by this loop. For some tracts of the frontier, there was no wall,

Territory of Vatican City according to the Lateran treaty

but the line of certain buildings supplied part of the boundary, and for a small part of the frontier a modern wall was constructed.

The territory included St. Peter's Square, which was not possible to isolate from the rest of Rome, and therefore a largely imaginary border with Italy runs along the outer limit of the square where it touches on Piazza Pio XII and Via Paolo VI. St. Peter's Square is reached through the Via della Conciliazione which runs from the Tiber River to St. Peter's. This grand approach was constructed by Mussolini after the conclusion of the Lateran Treaty.

According to the Lateran Treaty, certain properties of the Holy See that are located in Italian territory, most notably Castel Gandolfo and the Patriarchal Basilicas, enjoy extraterritorial status similar to that of foreign embassies. These properties, scattered all over Rome and Italy, house essential offices and institutions necessary to the character and mission of the Holy See.

Head of State

The Pope is ex officio head of state of the government of Vatican City. He is simultaneously the bishop of the Diocese of Rome and Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church. The term Holy See expresses the totality of his governance and pastoral ministry. His official title with regard to Vatican City is Sovereign of the State of the Vatican City.

The pope is a non-hereditary, elected monarch who exercises absolute authority—supreme legislative, executive and judicial power over the Vatican City. He is the only absolute monarch in Europe. The pope is elected for a life term in conclave by cardinals under the age of 80. His principal subordinate government officials for Vatican City are the Secretary of State, the President of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State, and the Governor of Vatican City.

The current Pope, as of 2007, is Benedict XVI, born Joseph Ratzinger in Germany. Tarcisio Cardinal Bertone of Italy is the Secretary of State. Italian Archbishop Giovanni Lajolo serves as both the President of the Pontifical Commission and Governor. Both Bertone and Lajolo were appointed by Pope Benedict in September 2006.

History

Ancient origins

Even before the arrival of Christianity, it is supposed that this originally uninhabited part of Rome (the ager vaticanus) had long been considered sacred, or at least not available for habitation. The area was also the site of worship to the Phrygian goddess Cybele and her consort Attis during Roman times.[1] Agrippina the Elder (14 B.C.E.-33 C.E.) drained the hill and environs and built her gardens there in the early first century C.E. Emperor Caligula (37-41 C.E.) started construction of a circus, (circle) that was later completed by Nero, the Circus Gaii et Neronis.

The Vatican obelisk was originally taken from Egypt by Caligula.

The Vatican obelisk was originally taken by Caligula from Heliopolis to decorate the spina of his circus and is thus its last visible remnant. This area became the site of martyrdom of many Christians after the great fire of Rome in 64. Ancient tradition holds that it was in this circus that Saint Peter was crucified upside down. Opposite the circus was a cemetery separated by the Via Cornelia. Funeral monuments, mausoleums, and small tombs as well as altars to pagan gods, were constructed lasting until just prior to the erection of the Constantinian Basilica of St. Peter's in the first half of the fourth century. Remains of this ancient necropolis were brought to light sporadically during renovations by various popes throughout the centuries increasing in frequency during the Renaissance until it was systematically excavated by orders of Pope Pius XII from 1939 to 1941.

Earliest church

In 326 C.E., the first church, the Constantinian Basilica, was built over the site that is believed to be the tomb of Saint Peter, buried in a common cemetery on the spot. From then on the area started to become more populated, but mostly by common dwelling houses. A palace was constructed near the site of the basilica as early as the fifth century during the pontificate of Pope Symmachus (reigned 498-514).

Popes in their secular role gradually came to govern neighboring regions and, through the Papal States, ruled a large portion of the Italian peninsula for more than a thousand years until the mid-nineteenth century, when most of the territory of the Papal States was seized by the newly created Kingdom of Italy. For much of this time the Vatican was not the habitual residence of the Popes, who lived at the Lateran Palace and, in recent centuries, the Quirinal Palace. The papal residence from 1309-1377 was at Avignon in France.

Papal holdings unresolved

In 1870, the Pope's holdings were left in an uncertain situation when Rome itself was annexed by the Piedmont-led forces which had united the rest of Italy. Between 1861 and 1929 the status of the Pope was referred to as the "Roman Question." The popes were undisturbed in their Vatican palace, and given certain recognition by the Law of Guarantees, including the right to send and receive ambassadors. But they did not recognize the Italian king's right to rule in Rome, and they refused to leave the Vatican compound until the dispute was resolved in 1929. Other states continued to maintain international recognition of the Holy See as a sovereign entity.

Mussolini demolished medieval housing to create the Via della Conciliazione, leading to St. Peter's Square.

In practice, Italy made no attempt to interfere with the Holy See within the Vatican walls. However, they confiscated church property in many other places, including, perhaps most notably, the Quirinal Palace, formerly the pope's official residence. Pope Pius IX (1846-1878), the last ruler of the Papal States, claimed that after Rome was annexed he was a "Prisoner in the Vatican."

Lateran Treaty

This situation was finally resolved on February 11, 1929 in an agreement between the Holy See and the Kingdom of Italy. The treaty was signed by Benito Mussolini and Pietro Cardinal Gasparri in behalf of King Victor Emmanuel III and Pope Pius XI (1922-1939), respectively. The Lateran Treaty and the Concordat established the independent State of the Vatican City and granted Catholicism special status in Italy. In 1984, a new concordat between the Holy See and Italy modified certain provisions of the earlier treaty, including the position of Catholicism as the Italian state religion.

Government

Political system

For historical reasons, the government of Vatican City has a unique structure. As noted, the principal figures are the Secretary of State, the President of the Pontifical Commission for the Vatican City State, and the Governor of Vatican City. These, like all other officials, are appointed by the Pope and can be dismissed by him at any time.

File:Holysee-arms.png
Coat of arms of the Holy See.

During a papal vacancy, the Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church, former Secretary of State, and former President of the Pontifical Commission form a commission that performs some of the functions of the head of state; while another made up of the Chamberlain and three cardinals (one being chosen by lot every three days from each order of cardinals), performs other functions of the head of state. All decisions of these commissions must be approved by the College of Cardinals.

The State of the Vatican City, as created by the Lateran Treaty, enables the Holy See to exist with a temporal jurisdiction, territorial identity, recognition, and independence within a small territory as a true nation-state in the eyes of other nations after the loss of the Papal States in 1870. The Vatican City State is not synonymous with the Holy See. It is a significant but not essential constituent entity of it. The Holy See has existed continuously as a juridical entity since Roman Imperial times and had been recognized by other sovereigns, nations and foreign powers as a powerful and independent sovereign entity since late antiquity to the present, even during periods when it held no territory (e.g. 1870 to 1929).

The Holy See has the oldest active continuous diplomatic representation or service in the world, dating back to at least 325 C.E. with its legation to the Council of Nicea. Indeed, other nations have their diplomatic relations with the Holy See, never the Vatican City State.

Church hierarchy

Prior to reforms made by Pope Paul VI (reigned 1963-1978), a large number of nobles existed within the government of the Vatican. A noble class still exists today and continues to form part of the papal court. The size of the papal court, however, had been reduced.

All cardinals, however, continue to have the royal rank of "prince of the blood." The rank's royal character is a vestige of the temporal power of the popes who ruled the Papal States for more than a thousand years and, prior to the Papal States, as the highest civil and religious authority of the Roman and Byzantine empires in Rome since late antiquity. Therefore, within this context, the State of the Vatican City is a true, although elected, monarchy in every sense of the word.[2]

Administration

The Governor of Vatican City, sometimes known as the President of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City, has duties similar to those of a mayor or city executive, concentrating on material questions concerning the state's territory, including local security, but excluding external relations.

Legislative power is vested in the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State, led by a president. Members are cardinals appointed by the pope for terms of five years.

The judicial functions are handled by three tribunals—the Apostolic Signatura, the Sacra Rota Romana, and the Apostolic Penitentiary, which are also the judicial arm of the Holy See (see below). The legal system is based on canon, or ecclesiastical, law; if Canon Law is not applicable, special laws of the territory apply, often modeled on Italian provisions.

Military

A member of the Swiss Guard at his post.

The Vatican City State has the distinction of having the smallest and oldest regular army in the world, the Swiss Guard. It was founded by Pope Julius II on January 22, 1506, and originally made up of Swiss mercenaries from the Swiss Confederation. They currently number a little over 100 men and are also the personal bodyguards of the Pope. Recruitment is restricted to Catholic, male, Swiss citizens.

The Palatine Guard and the Noble Guard were disbanded during the reign of Pope Paul VI in 1970, while the Corpo della Gendarmeria acts as the internal police force. Its full name is Corpo della Gendarmeria dello Stato della Città del Vaticano.

External defense is handled by the surrounding state of Italy, since the Vatican has no navy and no air force.

Communications

Vatican City has its own post office, fire brigade, police service, commissary (supermarket), bank, railway station, electric plant, and publishing house. The Vatican also controls its own Internet domain (.va).

Vatican Radio, which was originally organized by Guglielmo Marconi, today offers short- medium- and long-wave and broadband service around the world. The Vatican has also been given a radio ITU prefix, HV, and this is sometimes used by amateur radio operators. Transmission antennae are located in Italian territory. Television services are provided through another entity, the Vatican Television Center.

L'Osservatore Romano is the semi-official Vatican newspaper, published daily in Italian, and weekly in English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, and French (plus a monthly edition in Polish). It is published by a private corporation under the direction of Catholic laymen but carries official information. Acta Apostolicae Sedis is the official publication of the Holy See, carrying the official texts of Church documents, but is little read other than by scholars and Church professionals. Official documents are also available on the Vatican website.[3]

Economy

The stamp vending machine of the Vatican Postal Service

The unique economy of Vatican City is supported financially by contributions (part of which is known as Peter's Pence) from Catholics throughout the world, the sale of postage stamps and tourist mementos, fees for admission to museums, and the sale of publications.

The Vatican City issues its own coins. It has used the euro as its currency since January 1, 1999, owing to a special agreement with the EU (council decision 1999/98/CE). Euro coins and notes were introduced in January 1, 2002—the Vatican does not issue euro banknotes. Issuance of euro-denominated coins are strictly limited by treaty, though somewhat more than usual is allowed in a year in which there is a change in the papacy. Because of their rarity, Vatican euro coins are highly sought by collectors. Until the adoption of the Euro, Vatican coinage and stamps were denominated in their own Vatican lira currency, which was on par with the Italian lira.

It also has its own bank, Istituto per le Opere di Religione (also known as the Vatican Bank, and with the acronym IOR).

  • Budget: Revenues (2003), $252 million; expenditures (2003) $264 million.
  • Industries: printing and production of few mosaics and staff uniforms; worldwide financial activities.

Demographics

Population and languages

Almost all of Vatican City's 558 citizens either live inside the Vatican's walls or serve in the Vatican's diplomatic corps in embassies (called "nunciatures"; a papal ambassador is a "nuncio") around the world. The Vatican citizenry consists almost entirely of two groups: clergy working as officials of the Vatican as a state or of the Catholic Church; and the Swiss Guard. Most of the 3,000 lay workers who comprise the majority of the Vatican work force reside outside the Vatican and are citizens of Italy, while a few are citizens of other nations. As a result, all of the City's actual citizens are Catholic. Catholicism is the state religion. All the places of worship inside Vatican City are Catholic.

The Vatican has no set official language, it can be changed at any moment by the current Pope. The language most often used for the authoritative version of official documents of the Catholic Church or emanating from the Pope is Latin. However, Italian and, to a lesser extent, other languages are generally used for most conversations, publications, and broadcasts and most documents or other communications dealing directly with the Vatican as a state are most easily available in Italian. German is the official language of the Swiss Guard. The Vatican's official website languages are Italian, German, English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Citizenship

Citizenship of Vatican City is conferred upon some of those who have been appointed to work in certain capacities at the Vatican, and it is usually revoked upon the termination of their employment. During the period of employment citizenship may also be extended to a Vatican citizen's spouse. Terms of citizenship are defined in the Lateran Treaty, and laws concerning the creation of the Vatican state in 1929 sought to restrict the number of people who could be granted Vatican citizenship. The only passports issued by the Vatican are diplomatic passports.

As of December 31, 2005, of the 558 people with Vatican citizenship, 246 were dual-citizens of other countries (the majority being Italian). The Lateran Treaty provides that in the event a Vatican citizen has his or her original nationality revoked and also loses Vatican citizenship, he or she will be automatically granted Italian citizenship.

Vatican citizenship list (2005):

  • The Pope;
  • 58 cardinals;
  • 293 members of the clergy who serve as diplomatic envoys abroad;
  • 62 lesser-ranking clergy members who work in the Vatican;
  • 101 officers, NCOs, and men of the Papal Swiss Guard; and
  • 43 lay persons.

Foreign relations

Providing a territorial identity for the Holy See, Vatican City State is a recognized national territory under international law. However, it is the Holy See that is the legal body that conducts diplomatic relations for the Vatican City in addition to the Holy See's usual diplomacy, entering into international agreements and both receiving and sending diplomatic representatives. Because of the very limited territory of the Vatican state, foreign embassies to the Holy See are located in the Italian part of Rome; Italy actually hosts its own Embassy of Italy.

The Holy See is currently the only European political entity that has formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan.

Despite its minuscule size, as the veritable headquarters of the Catholic Church, the Vatican's influence on world affairs is disproportionately immense by virtue of its moral and spiritual authority.[4]

Culture

Detail of the Sistine Chapel ceiling.

The Vatican City is itself of great cultural significance. Buildings such as St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel are home to some of the most famous art in the world, which includes works by artists such as Botticelli, Bernini, and Michelangelo. The Vatican Library and the collections of the Vatican Museums are of the highest historical, scientific, and cultural importance. In 1984, the Vatican was added by UNESCO to the List of World Heritage Sites; it is the only one to consist of an entire country. Furthermore, it is the only site to date registered with UNESCO as a centre containing monuments in the "International Register of Cultural Property under Special Protection" according to the 1954 Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict.

Notes

  1. Altar of Cybele in Vatican Museum. mv.vatican.va. Retrieved June 10, 2007.
  2. Vatican City. Catholic-Pages.com. Retrieved March 4, 2007.
  3. Vatican web site, Vatican Web Site. Retrieved April 14, 2008.
  4. Vatican influence on the United Nations, the World Health Organization and other international agencies. www.population-security.org. Retrieved March 16, 2007.

References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees

  • Fox, Martha Capwell. Modern Nations of the World—The Vatican City. Lucent Books, 2005. ISBN 9781590187333
  • Lo Bello, Nino. The Incredible Book of Vatican Facts and Papal Curiosities. Grammercy, 20002. ISBN 97805172220832
  • Marchant, Piers. How to Be Pope: What to Do and Where to Go Once You're in the Vatican. Chronicle Books, 2005. ISBN 9780811852210
  • Roncalli, Francesco. Vatican City. Treasures Inc., 1996. ISBN 9788886921077

External links

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