The smallest country in the world is Vatican City. It is an independent city-state enclaved within Rome, Italy, covering an area of approximately 44 hectares (110 acres) or about 0.17 square miles. Vatican City serves as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church, housing the Pope and various significant religious and cultural sites, including St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. Despite its small size, Vatican City holds immense global influence due to its religious significance and diplomatic relations, making it a unique entity on the world stage.