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Pope Francis, leader of Christianity, died at 88 on Easter Monday. Cardinal Kevin Farrell will lead Vatican City until a new pope is elected
Vatican City covers a mere 44 hectares and encircled by a two-mile border with Italy.
(AP File)
In a world full of unique and intriguing places, Vatican City stands out, especially now as it finds itself in the global spotlight following the death of Pope Francis, the paramount leader of Christianity.
Nestled in the heart of Rome, the capital of Italy, Vatican City is the smallest independent country in the world, covering a mere 44 hectares and encircled by a two-mile border with Italy.
Historically, until 1871, Italy was fragmented into various states, with the Pope governing a significant portion. However, with the unification of Italy, the Pope’s authority became confined to Vatican City.
This change was solidified on February 11, 1929, when a treaty was signed between Pope Pius XI and the Italian dictator Mussolini, granting Vatican City the status of an independent nation on the condition that the Pope would not interfere in Italy’s political affairs.
Despite its small size, Vatican City boasts a population of around 1,000 people and even maintains its own army of 110 soldiers. However, due to its limited size and proximity to high-quality medical facilities in Rome, Vatican City lacks a hospital. Consequently, no child has been born within its borders for 96 years; pregnant women must leave the city to give birth.
Uniquely, Vatican City closes completely at night, further distinguishing it from other nations. This small yet significant country continues to captivate and surprise with its rich history and unique characteristics.
Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday at the age of 88, the Vatican has announced. As reported by PTI, the pope died the morning after Easter, a day when 1.3 billion Catholics around the world celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Despite his declining health, Francis made several public appearances at the Vatican during Holy Week, culminating in a well-received Easter Sunday appearance at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican camerlengo, announced the pope’s death “with deep sorrow”, stating that Francis died at 7:35 a.m. local time (1:35 a.m. ET). Cardinal Farrell will assume interim leadership of the Vatican until a new pope is elected.
Earlier this year, Francis experienced a severe health crisis and was hospitalised for five weeks with double pneumonia. He was discharged last month and was recuperating at his residence in Casa Santa Marta at the Vatican. The Vatican had reported as recently as last week that his condition was improving.
