What Countries are in Italy?

In general, everything within a country's borders is part of the same nation, but this is not always the case. For instance, the country of Italy totally surrounds two independent states: the Vatican City and the Republic of San Marino.

The Vatican City

Also known as the Vatican City State, is a semi-fortified city-state located in the Italian capital, Rome. It is the capital of the Roman Catholic Church and was established in 1929 as a separate state from the Holy See, the central government of the Church. However, the Holy See governs Vatican City. It's complicated, but ultimately this city-state is an absolute monarchy ruled by the Pope.

Vatican City is the world's smallest independent state in terms of size and population, covering just over 100 acres and counting around 800 citizens. It has its own flag, anthem and number plates, and issues its own stamps and coins, although it uses the euro as its currency, even though it is not a member of the European Union, as only democracies are allowed in the EU.

San Marino

It is not part of the EU, but uses the euro as its currency. It also mints its own coins, which are highly prized by collectors, as are the country's stamps. Mount Titano, a limestone rock with three peaks, dominates the surrounding hills and offers panoramic views of Italy, attracting around 3.5 million visitors a year.

San Marino, Europe's third smallest country, sits atop a mountain in north-central Italy. It covers around 24 square miles and has a population of around 32,500. According to legend, it is the oldest republic in the world, founded in 301 AD by a stonemason named Marinus. Today, its parliamentary government is based on rules drawn up at the end of the 16th century.

One of the reasons San Marino has managed to remain independent over the centuries is its mountainous location. In the 19th century, the country welcomed many people persecuted for their support of Italian unification, and in 1862 a treaty of friendship guaranteed its independence from the Italian state.