Country Enclaved within Italy

Before Italy was unified in 1870, Popes used to rule sovereign Papal States inside it. A cold war broke out between the church and secular government when the latter seized most of its lands. It was not until 1929 when they signed the Lateran Pacts to recognize the Vatican.

Covered 100 acres, Vatican City is the smallest country in the world. It is governed by the pope under an absolute monarchy. Swiss Guards are hired as a mercenary force. A passageway links the Vatican with the Castel Sant’Angelo, as an escape route for popes.

Without taxation, contributions and museum admission fees generate its revenue. Founded by Pope Julius II, the Vatican Museums owns over 70,000 paintings from across centuries. While in the Sistine Chapel, it is home to the Last Judgment and Michelangelo's Frescoes.

Standing in the west of the River Tiber, the St. Peter Basilica was consecrated in 1626 after 120 years of construction. This Renaissance-styled architecture contains spectacular art pieces. As the holiest Catholic shrine, it is the burial site of significant figures in Christendom.

Vatican City is encircled by a 2-mile border with Rome. All roads lead to Rome, so why not seize the chance for a Roman Holiday?

The Colosseum is an icon. Built by Emperor Vespasian in 72 C.E., the amphitheater held over 50,000 spectators. To mark its opening, a 100-day spectacle was held, such as gladiator combat and animal fight. A great earthquake in 1349 damaged the south side.

Aside from the Seven Wonders of the World, the Roman Forum showcased the glory of Ancient Rome. When the Roman Republic was founded, it is believed people began public meetings in the open-air area around 500 B.C., and it was expanded over many centuries.

I personally fell in love with the Piazza di Trevi square. It was initially designed by Bernini for Pope Clemens XII. The 30m tall Trevi Fountain is a masterpiece. Neptune was on the chariot pulled by winged horses. The obedient and the boisterous one depicted the changing of tides.

Never lie in Rome. Not only because it is where Pantheon situated, a collective of Gods, your fingers will be also cut by the Mouth of Truth.