Some countries in the world are quite small in size and occupy less area than megacities. But this does not prevent them from playing a significant role in the world. For example, the Vatican is considered a religious center, Monaco is recognized as a place of luxury, and Liechtenstein has won the glory of a prosperous country. The following are smallest countries in the world by area - top 10 rating.
10. Grenada (334 km²)
The list of the smallest countries in the world is opened by Grenada, with an area of 334 square kilometers and a population of about 100 thousand inhabitants. This volcanic island in the Caribbean was discovered by Columbus. First, the territory was settled by French colonists, then it was transferred to Great Britain according to the Versailles Peace Treaty. The spirit of France is felt in the country today - in architecture, art and even sports. The locals love to play cricket. Tropical evergreen forests, hills, mountains, beaches - this place could be called a paradise if not for the hurricanes. Cocoa, bananas, citrus fruits, cloves and vanilla are grown on fertile volcanic soils. Grenada is also called "Spice Island" for the production of nutmeg.
9. Malta (316 km²)
Malta is one of the smallest countries in Europe in terms of area (316 sq. Km). It is located in the Mediterranean Sea and is famous for its leisurely life. The state unites six islands. Out of 360 thousand people, 80% live in Malta, and locals buy summer cottages in Gozo. Despite its modest size, Malta is visited by over a million tourists a year. Attracted by ancient temples, nature, rocky and sandy beaches, crystal pure water and a rich underwater world. The Maltese are a cheerful people. Holidays, festivals, theatrical performances and fireworks - there is a lot of entertainment. Crime on the island is almost zero.
8. Maldives (300 km²)
The Maldives also occupies a modest size - 300 sq. kilometers. It is the smallest country in Asia - both in terms of territory and population (about 393 thousand). The state is one of the most dispersed in the world, because it consists of thousands of coral islands. Of these, only 200 are inhabited, and a hundred were given to tourists. They move between the islands on boats and local doni boats. There is only one city - the capital of Male, with an area of less than three square meters. kilometers. There is no room even for the airport - planes fly to the neighboring island. Until recently, residents of the Maldives were mainly engaged in fishing, and today the source of income is serving tourists. The island economy is targeting it. Guests like it here, because 80% of the territory is golden beaches. From entertainment - scuba diving and attractions. Nightlife almost not, because the Maldives belongs to the Muslim countries.
7. Saint Kitts and Nevis (269 km²)
Saint Kitts and Nevis - small citystate in the east of the Caribbean with an area of 269 sq. kilometers. It consists of two islands, Nevis and Saint Kitts. They were discovered by Columbus, and two centuries later the British settled on the territory. The colonies developed rapidly thanks to the export of sugar. Since the 90s, the federation has gained independence. Today Saint Kitts and Nevis is considered their home by 50 thousand people, about 86% are of African descent. Tropical thickets, mountains and meadows, butterflies and exotic birds, coral reefs and a strip of lagoons - local nature fascinates. This gives a large influx of tourists, on whose service the country's economy is built. Another area of earning money is agriculture. Residents breed goats and sheep, grow pineapples and a coffee tree. The islands are adapted for life: there is a narrow-gauge road along the coast, car roads, ports and two airports.
6. Liechtenstein (160 km²)
Liechtenstein is a European dwarf state with an area of only 160 sq. km. At the same time, the mountains occupy most area of the country. There are very few minerals - only limestone, white clays and alabaster. The country earns on the manufacturing industry, produces canned food and wine. Liechtenstein is thriving and characterized by a high standard of living. The inhabitants were also lucky with nature: alpine meadows, Mountain peaks, forests. The climate is mild and pleasant, because mountain ranges protect against evil winds... Liechtenstein is known for abandoning the armed forces - since the 19th century, the state has no army. And the police are small - 120 employees.
5. San Marino (61 km²)
San Marino is the oldest state in Europe. The dwarf country is called the "Land of Freedom". San Marino is surrounded by Italy. Maybe that's why the country is overcrowded with tourists during the summer months. Moreover, due to the reduced taxes, goods here are much cheaper than in Italy. Some residents live in Italian towns, and get to work in San Marino by car. The number of residents in the country is about 30 thousand people, and it is difficult to obtain a residence permit. You need to live in the territory for 30 years or be married to a local resident for 15 years. San Marino is ruled by not one person, but two at once - captains-regents. Almost the entire territory of the country (80%) is mountainous.
4. Tuvalu (26 km²)
The tiny state of Tuvalu in Polynesia could not keep up with its "colleagues". The country is considered one of the poorest. Even the nature here is scarce, it consists mainly of imported plants and animals. From plants there are palms, bananas, breadfruit. The weather here is not for everybody: long droughts give way to the rainy season. Sometimes destructive cyclones pass through Tuvalu. Because of one of them, houses were completely torn apart and 90% of the trees were felled. Many benefits of civilization are still inaccessible to local residents - their way of life has hardly changed over the centuries.
3. Nauru (21 km²)
The island dwarf state of Nauru is located in the Pacific Ocean. Its shape resembles a rectangle. The unique difference between Nauru is that it does not have an official capital. There are no rivers on the island, and therefore one of the main problems local residents is water scarcity. This is reflected in the flora and fauna - it is scarce, as in Tuvalu. Nauru's treasury replenished rapidly when phosphorites were mined. The country was classified as one of the richest in the world, but in the 90s, stocks began to decline. The well-being of the population fell. Phosphate mining has damaged the island. Due to the severe pollution of Nauru, tourism is not developed.
2. Monaco (2.02 km²)
Monaco is one of the smallest countries in Europe, with an area of only 2.02 square kilometers. The entire principality can be walked in an hour. Some tourists even have a photo where the country fits into one picture. Despite its diminutive size, the state has managed to declare itself to the world. Many countries have heard about the city of Monte Carlo and its legendary casino. Formula 1 competitions are held in Monaco. The principality is adjacent to France. The country makes money on tourists, and therefore carefully monitors its image. Monaco is called "the European reserve for the rich." Blooming azaleas and rhododendrons, princely court and temples, narrow streets and Mediterranean architecture, modern elite real estate- walks around the country are enjoyable. The world's most luxurious yachts are parked in the main bay of Monaco.
1. Vatican (0.44 km²)
The Vatican is rightfully recognized as the smallest state in the world. The country, with an area of only 0.44 km2, is located inside Rome and is associated with Italy. In ancient times, the area was not inhabited - it was considered sacred. In 326, a basilica was created, and the territory began to be developed. The Vatican is ruled by the Holy See. The Pope is considered the main one, who is elected for life. There is a state on donations from Catholics around the world and tourism revenues (souvenirs, entrance fees to museums, sale of stamps and coins). Almost all Vatican citizens are ministers of the Catholic Church.
There are a lot of different countries, but each of them is wonderful in its own way. Half of the magnifying glass is not visible on the map. :) And why? Every time I ask myself this question. Because they are so small and hidden from the prying eyes of the state. But many, including me, are interested in the question. What is the smallest country in our world?
Which country has the title of smallest
Here opinions differ, some believe that it is the smallest power, but this is not so. Legal right call itself the smallest country has . It is located in the capital of Italy - Rome. is not a country, but a city-state, so to speak. Has a very small area: only 44 hectares. Most of the entire area of this state is allocated for large and beautiful gardens is one of the main attractions of the Vatican. The population is also quite small, about 1000 inhabitants.
Vatican What is this unusual city-state famous for?
In addition to its small population and area, this city-state is also famous for:
- by their architectural structures and large gardens.
- - this is one and only state in the whole world that is located inside another state.
- All residents of this unusual city are very educated and know more than four foreign languages.
- No product is produced here.
- The entire economy of this state is supported by donations from Catholics and tourism, which is very flourishing here.
- The Vatican has its own train station and helipad, but there are no highways in the middle of the city.
This is how it is - the smallest country in the world.
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Almost everyone knows that the smallest state in the world is the Vatican. Its area is 0.44 km², and its population is about 1000 people. Due to the fact that the Vatican is located on a continental territory, a logical question arises, which is the smallest of the island states. I will answer it.
The smallest island state
The top position in the list of the smallest island countries belongs to Nauru. This country is located on the coral island of the same name. Its area is only 21.3 km². This territory is home to about 10,000 people. Fun fact is the absence of an official capital on Nauru. Population largest city the island has about 800 inhabitants.
Let me touch on the history of the country a little:
- The island became known to Europeans since 1798 thanks to English sailors.
- The first European settlers here were deserters and escaped convicts.
- During the two world wars, the island was under occupation (by Australian and Japanese troops).
- Independent state here it was proclaimed in 1968.
Development level of the smallest island country
Several decades ago, Nauru was considered a wealthy country. Financial well-being provided through the export of phosphorites. But when the deposits were exhausted, it turned out that the created reserves were extremely insufficient. The extraction of phosphorites has caused enormous damage to the local ecology. Significant areas of the island began to resemble lunar landscape.
In the 1990s-2000s. They tried to improve the welfare of Nauru by declaring the country an offshore zone and through the massive sale of passports to foreigners. But under external pressure, all this had to be abandoned. The main current source of funding is Australian cash injections. V to a greater extent this is a fee for ecological problems, which appeared due to the activities of Australian phosphorite miners.
As for tourism, it is poorly developed here due to the same environmental troubles. It is noteworthy that for Russians wishing to visit the island, a visa is not required.
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Once in Thailand I talked to the locals and asked them which country is the largest in the world. They thought it was the United States, and I explained that Russia! Lucky for us to live in the most big country world, and what is the smallest country? Who is our antipode? The question is quite interesting.
The smallest countries in the world are located in Europe
I was good at school with geography, so I remember that there are many dwarf states in Europe, and each of them has its own unique properties:
- Andorra. Ski resort in the Pyrenees.
- Monaco. Principality. Famous for its casino and the city of Monte Carlo.
- Liechtenstein. World leader in the production of teeth! Well, if you count per capita.
- San Marino. The oldest state in Europe, it is about 1700 years old.
In addition, there are three more states in Europe, which are almost invisible on the map, but they are precisely the smallest on the planet.
The Vatican is the smallest UN member state
The Vatican is hiding inside the capital of Italy, so it is essentially invisible on the map of the world and Europe. The country is small, but influential, because there are hundreds of millions of Catholics on the planet!
The Vatican is a member of the UN, they even have their own armed forces, which are manned by Swiss guards. This tradition originated from the Middle Ages. Then the Swiss were considered the elite infantry in Europe. Thus, the Vatican is small, but remote, as they say in Russia. It is visited by millions of tourists every year, because the museums there are worthy of attention. It is curious that the Vatican is essentially the only theocratic monarchy on the planet. Rare political system.
However, there are two smaller states in Europe that are smaller than the Vatican. Firstly, the Order of Malta, which is located there in Rome, and secondly, the funny state of Sealand on a platform in the North Sea, but this is more like humor.
If you look well on the map of Europe, you will find two more funny micro-states like Sealand. These are the republic of creative people Užupis in Vilnius and the Free City of Christiania in the capital of Denmark. They are popular with all sorts of party people, for example, hippies.
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It seems to me that if we discard such a thing as necessary for a state as international recognition, and judge the actual existence of a country by the presence of state signs (its own territory, money, government bodies, etc.), then the only and smallest state on the planet is Sealand. This country is located at sea, on a former military anti-aircraft platform, off the southeast coast of Great Britain.
The history of the smallest country in the world
Sealand begins its history in 1966, when a retired British major Bates and his friend O'Reilly bought a small military platform from Britain located at sea. During World War II, there was a soldier's garrison and anti-aircraft guns based there.
Friends thought to organize an amusement park on it. However, they soon quarreled and O'Reilly decided to seize the platform, while Bates held the defense for two days, firing back from a rifle and throwing Molotov cocktails at the attackers. O'Reilly had to retreat with nothing. 09/02/1967 Bates announced the creation of a sovereign state of Sealand, with a system in the form of a constitutional monarchy (the document includes only 7 articles), and proclaimed himself Prince - Roy I. In 1968, the British government tried to regain control of the platform, and to patrol boats even approached her, but Roy I again fought back, and the British were forced to retreat. As a result, the British government filed against Bates trial stretching out so far.
State signs of Sealand
This country has most of the features of a functioning state, except for recognition - it is not recognized by any country at all. These include:
- Its own flag and coat of arms.
- Stamps.
- The presence of ministries in the power structure (the Ministry of Tourism is the most successful).
- Own passports.
- Minted money.
Although the size of the state is small - only 0.004 sq. km., but it has its own territorial waters and even claims to the British. Currently, the head of Sealand is Prince Michael the First (son of Bates).
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I think everyone knows this popular song"Little country". So, "who will tell and who will show where she is, where is she?" That person will be me. Follow me, I will describe everything in detail!
The smallest country
In general, there are many such countries. It:
- Vatican;
- Order of Malta;
- Monaco;
- Liechtenstein.
The smallest state in the world is considered to be the Order of Malta. However, not all countries recognize the sovereignty of this country, but the order itself presents itself as a separate state. It is located inside Rome. It is tiny - 1200 meters long and 1200 meters wide. Imagine a kilometer there and a kilometer back, and you've already traveled the country far and wide!
It is home to 1,300 people who have their own passports and currency. The Order has only three buildings, two are in Rome, and the third is in the city of Birgu. It is quite difficult to get into them, and sometimes even impossible!
The machines have their own state signs of the order. Amazing country!
Principality of Monaco
Quite a well-known dwarf country, which hosts the famous racing competition "Monaco Grand Prix". Occupies only 200 hectares of land. Lives 31.7 thousand people. The population density is the highest here.
The principality is divided into districts:
- Monte Carlo;
- Monaco;
- La Condamine.
By the way, it is in Monaco that the popular Monte Carlo casino operates. Although the country is small, business is developed here, and there is also Golden Square, where boutiques of the most famous brands.
And another principality
It's about Liechtenstein, a small state with big ambitions. The economy and industry are well developed here. The population is 32 thousand people, and only two thirds of them are indigenous people.
The principality has 11 communes, which are divided between two districts - Upper and Lower Liechtenstein.
The country is practically made up of mountains. There are few minerals here, but agriculture is well developed. And here it is very beautiful nature.
Tourists will be interested in visiting Vaduz. This is the capital of the country. Attractions are National Museum, a museum of postage stamps, a winery.
All these countries are interesting in their own way, as they say, small but remote.
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When I was in the seventh grade, our history teacher said about the medieval states: "You could get around on foot in a day." This comparison shocked me to the depths of my soul and made me dig into the all-knowing Internet. Especially I was always interested in which country is the smallest in the world these days.
The smallest on the territory of the state
The smallest country in the world is considered to be the Order of Malta - a knightly organization that miraculously survived to our time. Its total area is only 0.012 km² and consists of a residence in the center of Rome and the tiny fort of St. Angelo on the island of Malta. A little less than 13 thousand people have citizenship of the Order of Malta. At the same time, he maintains diplomatic ties with 107 countries and holds the post of an independent observer at the UN.
The second place rightfully belongs to the Vatican, another state within Rome with an area of 0.44 km². Today only 836 people have his citizenship.
"Bronze Medal" for Monaco, a sovereign principality that is part of France. Almost 36 thousand inhabitants live on an area of 2.02 km².
Smallest island states
Most of the countries with the smallest populations are located not on continents, but on islands and atolls The Pacific:
- Niue. There are only 1,398 people in this country, although the size of the island is impressive: 261 km².
- Nauru. This 21-hectare island has a population of 9,322.
- Tuvalu. It includes 4 islands and 5 atolls, but their total area does not exceed 26 km². And the population is 10.5 thousand people.
- Cook Islands. The archipelago is home to just over 19 thousand people, with a total area of 263 km².
- Palau. This unique country consists of 328 islands, and only 20,842 people live on them.
However, the smallest country in the world (although not recognized by other states) is Sealand, an oil platform in the North Sea that declared its independence in 1967 and has since stubbornly defended its "borders".
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Little country
It will not be about that small country from the song of N. Koroleva, where animals with kind eyes and a life of love is full, but O Vatican.:)
It has square only 44 hectares and is located in the capital of Italy - Rome... Even though he is small, yes, as they say, he is smart ... Judge for yourself:
- the most valuable treasures of culture and art kept in the Vatican;
- Vatican - center of the catholic faith and catholic church;
- Literacy Rate here one hundred percent;
- Vatican has influence Not only on politics Italy, but also to other countries;
- Roman denomination preaches good deeds and humility;
- the only state that recognizes life on other planets;
- The Vatican has its radio station which broadcasts in almost 30 languages;
- nothing in the Vatican do not produce or sell(the budget is replenished with donations and tourism);
- in the Vatican the most accurate meteorologists in the world.
For those who travel to the Vatican
If you decide to go to journey to Italy and decide to look into the Vatican, then take note of the following:
- currency here as well as throughout Europe - Euro;
- language predominantly Italian, French and English, since the Vatican does not have its own language;
- in the Vatican, all buildings aresights;
- the largest number crimes in the Vatican commit tourists(Be carefull!);
- climate here soft, practically without rain and frost. There is no sweltering heat in summer(temperature 20-28 ° C), and warm winter and snowless (0–12 ° C).
Vatican gardens is what catches your eye first. These luxurious plantings oak, pine, cypress half the territory of the Vatican... Animals and birds, most likely will not be called you special interest parrots, field and bats, squirrels and rabbits live in the gardens.
Write about little vatican I can endlessly, but perhaps on this I will stop today.
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The most small state in the world (photos are shown below) - this is the Vatican. It is the smallest on the planet both in terms of the area occupied by the territory and the number of citizens. It should be noted that in in this case only officially recognized countries are taken into account. Here is the residence of the Pope, because this miniature city-state is considered the center of the entire Catholic world.
general description
The smallest state in the world in terms of area covers an area of only 0.45 km 2. It is located in the heart of the Italian capital - Rome. The total length of the Vatican border is 3200 meters. The state is surrounded by high walls on all sides. It has its own post office, police station, train station, publishing house and even the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Since the nineteenth century it has had its own currency unit- the lira of the Papal State, however, after the introduction of the euro in Italy in 2002, this currency began to be used in the Vatican.
Short story
The country has had a small size throughout the history of its existence. In ancient times, no one lived on the territory of the modern Vatican. The point is that in Ancient rome this place was considered sacred. It began to be populated in 326, after the construction of the Basilica of Constantine over the supposed burial place of St. Peter. In the period from 752 to 1870, the smallest state in the world in terms of population occupied an area of about 41 km 2. At this time it was called the Papal States. The country was invaded by the unified Italian army in the middle of the nineteenth century.
The current situation was settled in 1929. It was then that the Lateran Treaty was signed, according to which the independence of the state was proclaimed, and Pope Pius XI, in return, recognized the Kingdom of Italy.
Population
As noted above, the Vatican is the smallest state in the world in terms of population. About 850 people who are citizens of this country permanently reside on its territory. All of them have the status of ministers of the Holy See. Vatican citizenship can be obtained exclusively in this way. Upon completion of this work, it is instantly canceled. The local army numbers one hundred people.
V daytime on the territory of the country there are about three thousand hired workers, who are mainly engaged in rough work. They are not citizens of the Vatican and live outside of it. The overwhelming majority of these people are Italians.
State system and language
Based on international law, the smallest state in the world is an absolute theocratic monarchy ruled by the Holy See. In other words, all the executive, legislative and judicial power here is concentrated in the hands of the Pope, who is elected for life by the cardinals. He leads, in fact, only the Holy See, while the country is governed by the governor of the Pontifical Commission appointed by him.
All published in the Vatican legislative acts take effect only after they have been published in Italian and Latin... Thus, we can say that both of them have official status in the country. At the same time, work in any world language is allowed here, which is associated with the presence of representatives of many nationalities among the church ministers.
Financial policy
In the Vatican no industrial enterprises, in connection with which almost all financial income the smallest state in the world receives from investments, donations and tourism. Most of this money is used for ordinary expenses, including salaries, reconstruction of structures, upkeep of the Holy See, and so on. The annual state budget of a country with a planned economy averages 310 million American dollars... At the same time, the state is known for the charitable activities of the pontiff. In particular, funds are allocated to support people affected by natural disasters, as well as to build churches in all parts of the world.
Social politics
To ensure close contact and dialogue with Catholics, as well as disseminate the teachings of the church, the Vatican has created its own TV channel. It hosts live broadcasts of state celebrations and services of the Pope, as well as documentary films. It also has its own radio. It is available not only on short waves with AM and FM frequencies, but also via the Internet. V recent times social politics, conducted by the smallest state in the world, is criticized by the parishioners. In particular, many of them do not like conservative teachings, which does not correspond to the realities of our time.
Tourist attraction
As noted earlier, tourism is considered one of the Vatican's main sources of income. This is not surprising, since millions of people come here every year who want to see with their own eyes the ancient architectural ensembles and worldwide famous works arts created by great masters. The most popular among them are the Cathedral and St. Peter's Square, the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican Museum and Library, as well as the gardens that occupy most of the country.
The Vatican received the status of the official residence of the Pope in 1377.
Any visitor to the country has the opportunity to use the services of local mail, in particular, to send memorable postcards with unique stamps to their relatives and friends in any corner of the planet.
Local museums are the third most popular in the world, second only to the Louvre and the British Museum.
There is no airport on the territory of the Vatican. At the same time, the smallest state in the world can boast of having a helipad, operating since 1976. From here, the pontiff usually flies to Roman airports or to his residence, Castel Gandolfo.
The country has its own railroad with a train station. Its length is 700 meters.
The Vatican is characterized by an extremely high crime rate. For every local resident, there is an average of one crime per year. As a rule, this is theft. At the same time, it should be borne in mind that they are performed mainly by service personnel or tourists.
In the state, marriages are almost never concluded and children are not born.
The literacy of local residents is 100%.
Other tiny countries
As a rule, the smallest states in the world have a very rich history and are highly attractive for tourists. The following are the five smallest countries on the planet, in decreasing order.
In fourth place on the list is the Pacific island country of Tuvalu. She received her independence from England in 1978. The local population is about 10 thousand people. The state is located on 4 islands and 5 atolls with a total area of 26 km 2.
The third position belongs to Nauru - an island state located in the south of the Pacific Ocean. It has the status of an independent republic and is distinguished by the absence of a capital. The area of Nauru is 21.3 km 2, and the population is about 9.5 thousand people.
Monaco ranks second in the ranking of "The smallest states in the world". The principality borders France and is located on the shores of the Ligurian Sea. The area of the country in which permanent basis is home to about 36 thousand inhabitants, is 2.02 km 2. Thanks to tax breaks, the capital of the richest people on Earth is attracted here. The capital has a similar name.
The smallest state in the world is the Vatican, which was discussed in more detail in this article earlier.
09.08.2013
The G8 countries are known to everyone, and in the past we presented the top 10, it is easy for a state with a vast territory to declare itself on the world stage. But tiny countries are also interesting from the point of view of tourism. They, like “big brothers”, have their own history, interesting places to visit and picturesque landscapes. 192 sovereign states have been approved by the United Nations Organization. They also include 10 world powers with the smallest area. Below are the top 10 the smallest countries in the world.
10. Malta
The Republic of Malta has in its composition 3 large and scattering of tiny islands, which are located in the middle Mediterranean Sea, 93 km south of the coast of Sicily. Gozo and Comino are sparsely populated islands, while Malta, on the other hand, is a modern and vibrant island with an urban lifestyle. The country won the right to be independent from Britain in 1964 and is now a member of the European Union. The capital is Valleta, the country is home to 452,000 people, and the area of Malta is only 316 km2.
9. Republic of Maldives
Paradise corner in the ocean - Republic of Maldives. The name Maldives or Maldives is also known. The country is located in the southwest of India, in the water area Indian Ocean... Strictly speaking, these are many small islets. The uniqueness of the state is that it is the smallest Muslim state in Asia, its area is 298 km2, and the population is slightly more than 320 thousand people.
The capital of the Republic of Maldives is the city of Male. In 1965, the Maldives gained independence from Britain, and after 3 years became a republic.
8. Saint Kitts and Nevis
The smallest, not only in terms of area, but also in terms of the number of citizens, the state is on the eighth line among smallest countries... The country owns 261 km2; area for 50,000 inhabitants. The country is made up of the islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis in the east of the Caribbean. Independence, together with the name, was obtained in 1983, and in currently on the islands, in addition to tourism, the electrical industry is very developed. The capital of the country is the city of Buster.
7. Republic of the Marshall Islands
State in the Pacific Ocean, consisting of 29 atolls and five isolated islands in Micronesia. More than 60,000 people live on an area of 181 km². The country boasts stormy historical events, during which she was part of the Spanish, German and even Japanese empires. The islands were liberated from the latter by the United States as a result of World War II. However, the States withdrew their claims, and the country gained freedom only in 1986.
6. Liechtenstein
A tiny state in the center of Europe, bordered by Switzerland and Austria. Political structure — a constitutional monarchy... There is not even an airport closest to Swiss Zurich... It is a tax haven for businessmen from all over the world. Due to the low tax rate, many large European enterprises are registered here. The country lives on tourism and winter sports. The number of inhabitants is 35 thousand people, the area of the country is 160.4 km2 ;. The capital of Liechtenstein is Vaduz.
5. San Marino
European mini-state located in Italy. He has a lot of titles with the prefix "oldest":
- the oldest republic in the world
- the oldest sovereign country in the world
- the oldest national constitution, adopted back in 1600 and the fifth the smallest country in the world.
4. Tuvalu
Island Pacific power. It consists of 4 islands and 5 atolls. Tuvalu has no minerals and the inhabitants are engaged in agriculture and fishing. For this reason, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and the United States are helping the country. The country also sells a country code top-level domain (.tv). The state gained independence from England in 1978. The area is 26 km2 ;, local population- 10 thousand people. the capital of Tuvalu is Funafuti.
3. Nauru
Republic of Nauru, 3rd the smallest country in the world- a mini island state in the South Pacific. Located close to another island country- Kiribati. It is the smallest independent republic on Earth. And also the smallest island state, the smallest power outside Europe and the only republic in the world without an official capital. In 1999, the republic was admitted to the UN. The area of the country is 21.3 km2; the population is about 9.5 thousand people.
2. Monaco
The Principality of Monaco is located on the shores of the Ligurian Sea and borders on France. The Grimaldi family has ruled the country since 1297. Monaco is one of the most densely populated states - 17 814.85 people / km2 ;. It is world famous thanks to the casino in Monte Carlo, as well as the Formula 1 racing championship “Monaco Grand Prix”. The country is attracting capital richest people the planet at the expense of your tax credits. The area of the state is 2.02 km2, and 36 thousand people permanently live there. The capital is named after the country.
1. Vatican
The smallest country in the world known sovereign state led by the Pope. He also has the title of bishop of Rome and is located in the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican. The country is a religious complex surrounded by a walled enclave in the heart of Rome. The Vatican has its own police force, a military contingent and a Swiss guard, which is the Pope's personal bodyguard. The area of the Vatican is 0.44 km2; the population is 840 people, the capital is the Vatican.
Order of MaltaThe smallest state in the world is considered to be the Order of Malta (not to be confused with Malta). It is located in Italy, inside Rome. The area of this country is 0.012 square kilometers... Meanwhile, not all countries of the world have recognized the Order of Malta as an independent state. However, it has diplomatic relations with 104 countries and is permanent observer at the UN. The state issues its own car plate numbers and passports to its residents, and also has its own currency and stamps, which are signs of a full-fledged country.
Vatican
The Vatican is in second place in terms of area. It is also located inside Rome and is considered a state associated with Italy. Its area is 0.44 square kilometers. The country has the most powerful support from the entire Catholic community in the world. The head of the Vatican, the Pope, has a great influence on the economic and political balance of power not only in Europe, but also in the world.
Monaco
In third place is the Principality of Monaco, located on the Cote d'Azur. This country is associated with France. Despite its diminutive size, Monaco has its own Olympic team, led by a prince. The main source of income in this state is gambling and tourism. The area of Monaco is 2.02 square kilometers.
Nauru
This state covers an area of 21 square kilometers and is located in Oceania, on the coral island of the same name in the west of the Pacific Ocean. Nauru is the smallest independent republic on the planet and the smallest island nation. The absence of an official capital is another distinctive feature of this country.
Tuvalu
It is a state in the Pacific Ocean, which is located on five atolls and four islands. Its area is 26 square kilometers. Tuvalu earns its main income from growing coconuts and fishing. In addition, many television companies around the world pay her one million dollars on a quarterly basis in exchange for the right to use the .tv domain zone. Despite this, Tuvalu is one of the ten poorest countries in the world.
San Marino
One of the oldest republics in Europe covers an area of 61 square kilometers. The main income of the state is the issue of postage stamps and tourism. On all sides, San Marino is surrounded by the territory of Italy.
Liechtenstein
This state is associated with Switzerland and has an area of 160 square kilometers. He is also earned stamps and tourism. Its picturesque alpine landscapes attract many tourists.
Marshall Islands
This Pacific state is associated with the United States and is located on 5 islands and 29 atolls. The total is 181 square kilometers. Income to the budget of this state comes from tourism, the export of coconuts and fishing.
Cook islands
This state is self-governing and is free with New Zealand. The Cook Islands are located in the South Pacific Ocean and cover an area of 236 square kilometers.
Saint Kitts and Nevis
This country, located in the east of the Caribbean Sea, consists of two islands - Nevis and Saint Kitts. total area the state is 261 square kilometers. It is the smallest country in Latin America in terms of area.
Ten smallest countries in the world by population
VaticanThe smallest state in terms of the number of inhabitants. Its population is only 840 people.
Niue
Niue has a population of approximately 1,400.
Nauru
The population of Nauru is 9,320 people.
Tuvalu
Tuvalu has a population of just over 10,000.
Order of Malta
On the fifth line is the Order of Malta. Its population is 12,500 inhabitants.
Cook islands
This archipelago is home to 19,600 people.
Palau
On this island nation the Pacific Ocean is home to 20,850 inhabitants.
San Marino
A population of 32,100 people allowed San Marino to take the eighth line of the ranking.
Liechtenstein
In this European country 35,900 people live.
Saint Kitts and Nevis
The top ten small countries in terms of the number of inhabitants is closed by the Latin American state with a population of 50,000 inhabitants.
