Countries the Size of a Neighborhood: How Life is Organized in Microstates

When we think of countries, we usually picture vast territories with millions of inhabitants. But there are tiny crumbs on the world map — countries the size of a city quarter or a small island. Despite their minuscule dimensions, these micro-states have a rich history, unique culture, and sometimes quite unusual economies. Let's go on a journey through the smallest countries in the world and discover what makes them interesting.

Main points from the article:

• Vatican City is the smallest country in the world, with a total area of just 0.44 sq km;
• Monaco is known for its casinos and Formula 1 Grand Prix;
• San Marino has more cars per inhabitant than any other country in the world;
• Nauru is the smallest independent republic in the world, located on one island;
• Luxembourg is a microstate with a high standard of living and a developed economy.

Vatican City: A State the Size of a Park

Vatican City is the absolute record holder among microstates. Its area is only 0.44 square kilometers, which is smaller than the Moscow park "Zaryadye". Despite its tiny size, Vatican City is the center of the Catholic world and the residence of the Pope.

Interesting fact: In Vatican City, there are 2.3 Popes per inhabitant! This is because the country's population is only about 825 people, and the remains of 192 Popes are buried there.

The economy of Vatican City is unique: there are no taxes, unemployment, or even its own currency (the euro is used). The main sources of income are donations from believers, the sale of stamps and souvenirs, as well as museum revenues.

Interesting detail: Despite its minuscule size, Vatican City has its own railway. Indeed, the length of the line is only 852 meters, and the only train is mainly used for cargo transport.

Photo: loving-travel.com

Monaco: Luxury on the Coast

Monaco is the second smallest country in the world, located on a picturesque coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Its area is 2.02 square kilometers, slightly larger than Moscow's VDNKh.

Interesting fact: Every third resident of Monaco is a millionaire. This is the highest concentration of wealthy individuals in the world.

Monaco is famous for its casinos, yachts, and the annual Formula 1 Grand Prix. The country's economy largely depends on tourism and gambling. However, residents of Monaco are not allowed to play in casinos — this rule was introduced in the 19th century to prevent locals from losing their wealth.

Interesting detail: Monaco has no army, but it does have a military band that is larger than the country's police force.

Photo: pixy.org

San Marino: Mountain Republic

San Marino is the third smallest country in Europe, nestled between Italian regions. Its area is 61 square kilometers, which is approximately the size of Losiny Island in Moscow.

Interesting fact: San Marino is considered the oldest republic in the world. According to legend, it was founded in 301 AD by Saint Marinus.

The economy of San Marino is based on tourism, ceramics and textile manufacturing, as well as banking. The country is known for its stamps and coins, which are highly valued by collectors.

Interesting detail: In San Marino, there are more cars per inhabitant than in any other country in the world — 1.263 vehicles per person.

Photo: pinterest.com

Nauru: A Tiny Island in the Ocean

Nauru is the smallest independent republic in the world, located on one island in the Pacific Ocean. Its area is only 21 square kilometers, which is smaller than the territory of Sheremetyevo Airport.

Interesting fact: Nauru is the only country in the world without an official capital.

The history of Nauru is like rollercoaster rides. In the early 20th century, the island was one of the richest places on Earth due to phosphate deposits. But by the end of the century, these resources were depleted, and the country was on the brink of bankruptcy.

Interesting detail: Nauru has no natural sources of fresh water. All water supply depends on desalination plants.

Photo: img.tourister.ru

Luxembourg: A Small Country with Big Ambitions

Luxembourg, although it doesn't rank among the five smallest countries in the world, is still one of Europe's most compact states. Its area is 2,586 square kilometers, which is approximately the size of Moscow.

Interesting fact: Luxembourg is the only Grand Duchy in the world. This means that the head of state is a Grand Duke.

Despite its small size, Luxembourg is one of Europe’s financial centers. The country is known for its banking sector, developed service industry, and high standard of living. GDP per capita in Luxembourg is one of the highest in the world.

Interesting detail: Luxembourg has three official languages — Luxembourgish, French, and German. Most residents speak all three fluently.

Luxembourg's economy is largely based on the financial sector and services industry. The country is also known for its steel industry and actively develops innovative technologies.

Interesting fact: Luxembourg is the only country in the world where all types of public transport (buses, trams, and trains) are free for everyone, including tourists.

Photo: ft.com

Microstates are often underestimated, but they play an important role in global politics and economics. Their unique experience can be useful for solving problems that larger countries face.

The smallest countries in the world prove that size isn't everything. These micro-states have rich histories, unique cultures, and sometimes quite unusual economies. They remind us that even on a tiny territory, it's possible to build a prosperous society and contribute to global civilization.

Cover: fragrantica.ru