What is the smallest country in the world?

The Vatican City is the smallest country in the world because it covers an area of only 0.44 square kilometers. It is an independent city-state located within Rome, Italy, and is the spiritual and administrative headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church. Due to its small size, it is primarily known for housing significant religious and cultural sites such as St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. As a sovereign state, Vatican City has its own government, legal system, and even issues its currency and stamps.