 Popes ruled portions of Italy for more than a thousand years, until the mid-19th century. In 1929 the Catholic Church signed treaties with Italy making Vatican City, inside Rome, a separate state. Its area is a mere 0.44 sq km; it is the world's smallest state. As well, outside the Vatican City, 13 buildings in Rome and Castel Gandolfo (the pope's summer residence) enjoy extraterritorial rights. The defense of the Vatican is the responsibility of Italy; Swiss Papal Guards are posted at entrances to the Vatican City to provide security and protect the Pope. The economy of Vatican city is supported by an annual contribution from Roman Catholic dioceses throughout the world, as well as by special collections (known as Peter's Pence); the sale of postage stamps, coins, medals, and tourist mementos; fees for admission to museums; and the sale of publications. Investments and real estate income also account for a sizable portion of revenue. |