Vatican City State Country Report

Vatican City is an independent city-state located within Rome. Vatican City has an ecclesiastical system of government, and the head of its government is the Bishop of Rome, the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. The territory of the Vatican City is an enclosed area of ​​the Republic of Italy. Roman Catholicism is the state religion and the main commitment of the nation itself.

Crime is rare in Vatican City. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can be a concern for tourists and other city travelers. Vatican City has no history of terrorism. However, the threat of terrorist attacks against urban infrastructure and religious authorities remains significant. The symbolic value of the building has in the past raised concerns about possible attacks by Islamic extremist networks active in Italy and Western Europe. Vatican City has no history of political violence, and although isolated demonstrations may occur, civil unrest is rare. Large religious events attract large numbers of participants and are known to cause minor traffic and pedestrian delays.

There is no public transportation in Vatican City. Most visitors walk from the Italian bus and train stations or from the parking lot. Visitors can use Rome’s two airports, Ciampino and Fiumicino.
Last updated: April 13, 2022