10 smallest countries in the world: why every tourist should see them.

There are very small states in the world that attract attention with their history and culture. Some of these states, although small in size, have their own government and army.

Let's examine ten of the smallest states on the planet and what makes them special.

Vatican City

The Vatican City, located in Rome, is the smallest recognized state in the world. The Vatican is a theocratic monarchy with the Pope at its head. The area of the state is only 0.44 square kilometers, and the population is 842 people. The Vatican has a non-commercial planned economy and exists on donations from Catholics. The majority of the population consists of clergy.

Monaco

The Principality of Monaco occupies a small territory in southern Europe. It is one of the smallest countries in the world, but very densely populated. About 36 thousand people live in an area of 2.02 square kilometers. Monaco is known for its casino in Monte Carlo and is one of the stages of the "Formula 1" - the Monaco Grand Prix.

Nauru

The Republic of Nauru is located on an island in the Pacific Ocean. It is one of the smallest states in the world. Nauru gained independence in 1968 and has an area of 21.3 square kilometers and a population of about 10 thousand people. It is the smallest independent republic and the only state formation without an official capital.

Tuvalu

The state of Tuvalu is located in Micronesia. It has only 26 square kilometers of area and a population of about 11 thousand people. The capital of the country is Funafuti. Tuvalu was a former colony of Great Britain but gained independence in 1978.

San Marino

The Republic of San Marino borders Italy and is the oldest state in Europe. It has an area of 60.57 square kilometers and a population of about 32 thousand people. San Marino is known for its medieval buildings and the Liechtenstein Art Museum.

Liechtenstein

The Principality of Liechtenstein is located in Western Europe, in the Alps. It has an area of 160 square kilometers and a population of about 37 thousand people. Liechtenstein is a constitutional monarchy, and its capital is the city of Vaduz. The country has several important world cultural sites, including the Liechtenstein Art Museum.

Marshall Islands

The Republic of the Marshall Islands is located in the Pacific Ocean and has an area of 181.3 square kilometers. The population of the country is about 53 thousand people, and the capital is Majuro. The islands are named after the English captain John Marshall.

Saint Kitts and Nevis

The country is located in the Caribbean Sea and has an area of 261 square kilometers. The population of Saint Kitts and Nevis is about 50 thousand people, and the capital is the city of Basseterre. These islands were discovered by Columbus in 1493 and are now independent from the British Commonwealth.

Maldives

The Maldives Republic is located in the Indian Ocean and has an area of 298 square kilometers. The population of the Maldives is over 400 thousand people. The capital is the city of Male. The Maldives are popular among tourists as they offer fantastic beaches and resorts.

Malta

The Republic of Malta is located in the Mediterranean Sea and has an area of 316 square kilometers. The population of Malta is 426 thousand people. Malta has a rich history and culture that attracts many tourists.

All these states, although small, have their uniqueness and appeal for tourists and travelers.

With the approach of spring, European cities become interesting for travelers. There are four medieval pearls of Europe that look especially beautiful in spring.

There, you want to sit with a cup of coffee in a square surrounded by ochre buildings dating back centuries, stroll through narrow streets under the sounds of church bells, or get lost in the secret passages of a castle.