Microstates of the world

In short: Microstates are sovereign countries with a very small area and population, often less than a thousand square kilometres. Examples include Vatican City, Monaco, and San Marino.

In more detail: Despite their small size, microstates have full state sovereignty with their own government, laws, and often their own currency.

In detail

• Vatican City: At only about 0.44 square kilometres, it is the smallest sovereign state in the world and the seat of the Pope.
• Monaco: Known for luxury and Formula 1 racing, it ranks among the richest countries in the world despite its tiny area.
• San Marino: One of the oldest still-existing states, completely surrounded by Italy.
• Economic niches: Many microstates specialise in tourism, financial services, or stamp sales.
• International relations: Despite their small size, most microstates are members of the United Nations.
• Historical origins: Some microstates arose from medieval feudal domains that managed to preserve their independence.
• Distinction from dependent territories: Microstates differ from overseas territories, which don’t hold full sovereignty (laender-europas-und-hauptstaedte, vereinte-nationen-und-menschenrechte).