Size is not a criterion in our definition of what constitutes a country.A country need only be an independent state，with distinct territorial boundaries and its own government.As weighing in at a mere 0.17 square miles，Vatican holds the title of being the smallest country in the world.

　　Vatican City is the official seat of the Catholic Church，and its head，the Pope，rules through a civil governor.As with any other country，this miniature country sports its own flag，coins its own coins，runs its own postal，transportation，telephone systems，and radio broadcasting station.Vatican City is all grown up.

　　面积大小不是界定一个国家的标准。国家只需要是独立的，有明确的领土边界，有自己的政府。梵蒂冈面积只有0.17平方英里，因此它具有世界上最小国家的称号。

　　梵蒂冈城是天主教教廷的官方所在地，其首领为教皇，通过行政长官实行统治。跟任何其他国家一样，这样一个袖珍小国挂自己的国旗，铸造自己的硬币，经营自己的邮政、交通、电话系统和无线电广播电台。梵蒂冈城可谓是“麻雀虽小，五脏俱全”！