1 smallest country in the world. Size matters: the world's smallest countries by area and population
Do you think you know geography? What are the smallest countries in the world? Could you name them? Or could you point them out on the map? Or maybe you've never even heard of them? We think that not many people will be able to list even several of these countries at once. This is not surprising, since the UN currently recognizes more than 192 independent states. Therefore, we want to remind you of them and present a ranking of the smallest countries in the world.
Malta
The Republic of Malta consists of three big and several tiny islands that are located in the center Mediterranean Sea, at 93 km south of the coast Sicily. The two small islands of Gozo and Comino are sparsely populated, but the main island, Malta, has modern and vibrant urban areas. Malta gained independence from Great Britain in 1964 and has since become a member of the European Union. The capital of Malta is Valleta, with a population of more than 452,000 people; the area of this small country is only 316 km².
Republic of Maldives, better known as the Maldives or Maldives. Located on the southwest coast of India, in the waters Indian Ocean, and consists of many islands. The Republic of Maldives is the smallest Muslim country in Asia, with an area of only 298 km² and a population of just over 324,000 people. The capital is the city of Male. The Maldives became a British protectorate in 1887. In 1965, Britain granted independence to the Maldives, and in 1968 it became a republic.
Exactly this small state in the Western Hemisphere not only in area, which is 261 km², but also in population, only about 50 thousand people. The state consists of two islands - Saint Kitts and Nevis, located in the east Caribbean Sea. St. Kitts and Nevis is now heavily dependent on tourism, but boasts the largest electrical industry in the Caribbean. It gained independence and the name Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis in 1983. The capital is the city of Basseterre.
This Pacific nation consists of 29 atolls and 5 isolated islands in Micronesia. The area is only 181 km², the population is more than 60,000 people, the capital is Majuro. During its history, the Marshall Islands were part of the Spanish, German and Japanese empires. During World War II, the United States liberated the islands from Japan, but they did not gain independence and remained largely under US jurisdiction until 1986.
Liechtenstein is a small country in the center of Europe, located on the border between Switzerland and Austria, which completely surround it. It is one of the few countries that does not have an airport, but does have a small heliport. Nearest international Airport is located in Zurich, Switzerland. The country is thriving tourism industry, pass winter views sports Known as a tax haven (due to its low taxes) for many large businesses from all over Europe. There are even more such enterprises than the inhabitants themselves in the country, and there are about 35,000 people, the country’s area is only 160.4 km², the capital is Vaduz.
San Marino
The Republic of San Marino is in fifth place in the ranking of the smallest countries in the world. It is a city-state located in Europe, on the border of Italy, which completely surrounds it. It is the oldest sovereign state in the world, as well as the oldest republic. Adopted in 1600, it is the oldest national constitution in the world. San Marino is also one of the least populated countries in Europe, with just over 31,000. Area of only 61 km², the capital of San Marino.
Tuvalu
Tuvalu is an island nation in the Pacific Ocean consisting of four islands and five atolls. It is the fourth smallest country in the world. Tuvalu has virtually no natural resources, excluding fish and agriculture. As a result, Tuvalu is largely dependent on foreign aid, which the country receives from Australia, New Zealand, Japan and the United States in particular. However, significant cash proceeds come from the sale of the national top-level domain (.tv). Tuvalu gained independence from Britain in 1978. The area is only 26 km², the population is about 10 thousand people, the capital is Funafuti.
Nauru
The Republic of Nauru (formerly Pleasant Island) is a tiny island nation in the southern Pacific Ocean, close to island state Kiribati. It is the smallest independent republic in the world, the smallest island state, the smallest state outside Europe, and the only republic in the world that does not have an official capital. In 1999, the Republic was admitted to the UN. The area is only 21.3 km², the population is about 9,300 people.
Second place in the list of the smallest countries in the world is occupied by the Principality of Monaco, located in the south of Europe, on the shores of the Ligurian Sea, bordering France. The Grimaldi family has ruled Monaco since 1297. It is one of the most densely populated countries in the world with 17,814.85 people/km². Known all over the world, primarily for the casino in Monte Carlo and the Formula 1 championship “Grand Prix of Monaco”. The country's area is only 2.02 km², the population is about 36,000 people, the capital is Monaco.
The smallest country in the world is the Vatican. It is a religious complex surrounded by an enclave wall. It is a sovereign independent state with the Pope as monarch. The Vatican is located in the center of Rome, next to St. Peter's Square. The Pope also holds the title of Bishop of Rome and resides in the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican. The state attracts tens of thousands of tourists every year. The Vatican has its own police force known as the Corpo. It also has its own military personnel and the Swiss Guard, although their official purpose is to protect the Pope and the Holy See (of the Roman Catholic Church), and not the Vatican State itself. Area only 0.44 km², population about 840 people, capital Vatican.
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“I and the World” welcomes everyone who is now reading this article. Today we would like to present you with a ranking of small countries. And what is the smallest state in the world, you will find out by reading this article to the end.
When we hear about a country, for example, in the news, we imagine a large territory with a population of several million people. But there are countries that can be compared in area to one modern metropolis.
And let's start with San Marino - 61 sq. km
We can say that this is a state within a state. San Marino is surrounded by the lands of Italy in a circle and is considered the oldest in Europe. It is noteworthy that it is located on one of the slopes of Mount Titan.
According to legend, the founder of San Marino is considered to be a stonecutter named Marinus, who made the main castle of the future country in the rock, where he created his community. Subsequently, the stonemason was canonized as a Christian saint.
Only 30,000 people live here. But there is almost no unemployment, and the GDP per capita is one of the highest, thanks to the tourism business.
In 4th place is Tuvalu - 26 square meters. km
This Pacific territory in Polynesia consists of nine small coral islets. The population is about 11,000 people.
In such a small area there are only 8 km of roads, so it is difficult to get to different parts of the country and tourists rarely visit these islands, although the places here are very beautiful. The biggest problem is the gradual flooding of the territory, i.e. The islands are slowly sinking.
The Tuvalu Islands were discovered by the British Alvaro Mendaña de Neira in 1568 and were a British colony for a long time until they gained independence in the mid-20th century. The capital of the country is a city with a name similar to candy - Funafuti.
Interestingly, the lands often changed their names. The discoverer named them the Lagoon Islands, then the archipelago was called the Ellis Islands and now this is the state of Tuvalu, which means “eight standing together.”
3rd place – Nauru – 21 sq. km
Nauru is also an island state, but even smaller in area than Tuvalu and also in the Pacific Ocean. Although the names are quite similar, right? It is the smallest of the island states. 
Just over 10,000 people live here. But they do not have an official capital.
Recently, the country's economy has been suffering greatly due to the depletion of phosphate mines.
There was nothing left to mine, so unemployment reached 90%. Maybe that's why there are too many obese people here - 97% of men and 93% of women - because there is nothing better to do? Yes, diabetes mellitus is also added to this problem.
2nd place – Principality of Monaco – 2.02 sq. km
The territory is located near France on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Warm climate and Beautiful places attract many travelers. About 40,000 people live here.
Many people know this state as the most gambling one, thanks to the famous casinos in the city of Monte Carlo.
The country is also known for hosting the Formula 1 championship, the Monaco Grand Prix, every year.
Profit to the treasury comes from the tourism business and the sale of real estate.
The Vatican closes the top five with 0.44 sq. km – 1st place
Which independent state in the world is the smallest? This is the Vatican, and it is located not only on the territory of another state, but also in the center of another city -.
The Vatican is the religious center of the Catholic Church. Therefore, here is the richest and largest church in the world - St. Peter's Basilica.
The Vatican houses very valuable works of the Renaissance. How does this small state live? Voluntary contributions from a huge number of Catholics living around the world - more than 1 billion people. There is also a small part of the profit: income from the sale of souvenirs and entrance tickets to the Vatican Museums.
The Pope is recognized as head for life.
Basically, the population (about 840 people) is the clergy, and those who serve this entire holy center (janitors, gardeners and others) are the population of Italy.
It has its own army - the ancient Swiss Guard.
I would like to tell you about another interesting state in South America -Saint Kitts and Nevis
Many wealthy people are trying to obtain citizenship here. And do this not in order to live there, but to travel freely around the world and actively engage in business. The possibilities of this country’s passport are simply golden - its presence allows you to visit up to 130 countries of the world, and low taxes allow you to successfully conduct business.
On an area of 260 sq. km perfectly live 50,000 people. But the country is still ruled by the Queen of England, because... The territory is part of the British Commonwealth. The tourism business is well developed here, and there is also income from the import of sugar cane, coffee, and cotton.
Do you want to get citizenship here? Then you have two options:
- Make a charitable contribution of US$250-350,000 towards the development of the country's sugar industry.
- Buy a property for $400,000.
And what’s interesting is that you don’t need to go to St. Kitts and Nevis to get a passport; it will be given to you in your country without the cost of a flight.
And one more interesting fact: Many consider it a city or a small state. But in reality this is not the case, since the territory of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg occupies 2,500 square meters. km, and in terms of population - 576,000 people.
The duchy is one of the richest in the world, with a high standard of living. People from different countries They keep their savings here thanks to 1000 investment funds and banks, of which there are more than 200.
We described amazing countries, so small, but so interesting and unusual. With its own special history and modern life. If you find the information interesting, share this article with your friends. Travel the world and all the best to you!
From school days everyone remembers perfectly what it looks like political map peace. This is a lot of states, some of which can be called real “giants”, while others are so small that their names are at the bottom, in the footnotes. And if big countries, such as Russia, USA, Canada, China, each of us can find without error on a globe or map, then we will have to work hard to find small ones. In this article we will talk about which of all is the smallest country in the world, and we will also make a kind of rating of small states by territory (area) and by population, so that you can confidently answer the question that interests many about the smallest of them.
About 250 countries are marked on the world map, officially recognized and independent. Among them there are real “giants” that occupy vast territories, as well as “tiny” ones in area. Below we will look at the smallest countries by area, compiling a kind of TOP 10 small lands, starting with the largest of them.
10th place - Grenada
The area of this island state is 344 sq. km, and the population is just under 90 thousand people. First discovered by the notorious Columbus, this country is famous for growing nutmegs, bananas and citrus fruits on its territory. A significant amount of government income, in addition to fruit exports, comes from the provision of offshore services.
9th place – Maldives
For many people, this place is associated with heaven on earth. The area of this “paradise” is only 298 sq. km, the population is about 390 thousand people. Consisting of more than 1,000 islands, this archipelago is located in the Indian Ocean and is recognized as one of the best resort areas in the world. Mild climate, unusual beaches, pure water– all this attracts tourists from all over the world, and on the territory there are best places for a beach holiday.
8th place – Saint Kitts and Nevis
The total area is 261 sq. km, the population is about 50 thousand people. The Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis is located in the Caribbean Sea on two islands bearing the country's name. In the Western Hemisphere, this federation is considered the smallest both in terms of territory (area) and population. The main income comes from tourism, since all other industries are not very developed.
By the way, to attract investment in the agricultural sector, a special program was developed that allows you to obtain citizenship by investing about 300 thousand dollars in the development of this area.
7th place - Marshall Islands
The area of the islands in the Pacific Ocean is 181 sq. km, the population is just over 52 thousand people. This republic is known for holding in the middle of the last century nuclear tests America, which significantly changed the flora and fauna of the islands. That is why now the plants characteristic of this zone are quite rare, although others have been planted instead. Tourism on the islands is just beginning to develop, but in the future this area may become one of the most beloved by tourists.
6th place – Liechtenstein
The Western European principality covers an area of 160 sq. km. with a population of 37 thousand people. Beautiful and picturesque, this country borders Austria and Switzerland, and the official language is German. Despite its tiny size, the principality is a developed state with a high standard of living for its people. The country is famous for its precision instrumentation and the flowing Rhine River.
If we look at it from a tourist point of view, then guests will be delighted beautiful landscapes both clean air and the trip will be remembered for a long time.
5th place – San Marino
Bordering exclusively with Italy, San Marino occupies 61 sq. km., population – 32 thousand people. This state is recognized as one of the oldest in Europe, the date of its formation is the 3rd century. Picturesque landscapes, ancient buildings and a developed service sector - all this will delight the guests of San Marino.
4th place – Tuvalu
Tuvalu is located in the Pacific Ocean and occupies only 26 sq. km. with a population of about 11 thousand people. The climate in the country is tropical, with pronounced periods of rain and drought. This state is one of the poorest countries in the world due to its poorly developed economy.
3rd place – Nauru
Nauru is located in the Pacific Ocean. Area – 21.3 sq. km., population – about 10 thousand people. The most amazing thing about this country is that it does not have a capital.
The climate can be described in two words: hot and humid. Flora and fauna are not very diverse.
2nd place – Monaco
It is difficult to imagine a person who has never heard of the country of casinos - Monaco. The area of the state is 2.02 sq. km, the population is about 30 thousand people. The main source of income for this country can be called tourism. The construction and sale of real estate is also developed, since becoming the happy owner of an apartment in this zone is either expensive or very expensive.
1st place – Vatican
The smallest state in the world is the Vatican. Its area is 0.44 sq. km, and its population is 836 people.
The Vatican is located inside eternal city Rome and submits to the Pope. His income comes from donations and tourism (entrance to museums, sale of souvenirs). The smallest state plays a big role in resolving military conflicts and is the center of Catholicism.
If you are interested in the smallest state in terms of territory, then now you know for sure that this country is the Vatican, one of the independent and recognized ones. Some also mention the Order of Malta, its territory covers 0.012 sq. km., but although this country is recognized as independent, for our ranking of states it lacks its own currency and a citizen’s passport. Therefore, the Vatican remains the smallest in terms of territory.
5 smallest countries (population)
It just so happens, but in the largest countries in terms of population - China and India - a third of the total population of our planet lives. Compared to these “giants”, small countries seem even smaller. Below we will look at the smallest of them in terms of population and answer the question of which country is the smallest in terms of population.
5th place – Niue
In fifth place is the island and the state entity of the same name - Niue, with a population of 1,611 people. It is located in the Pacific Ocean, east of the island Tonga.
4th place – Tokelau
Tokelau is part of New Zealand, but after referendums in 2006 and 2007, the state ceased to be associated with New Zealand. Population – 1383 people.
3rd place – Vatican
The Catholic center has a population of 836 people. The state located in Rome is governed by the Pope.
2nd place – Cocos Islands
The second smallest state in terms of population is the Cocos Islands or Keeling Islands, with a population of 550 people.
1st place Pitcairn Islands
The smallest country by population is the Pitcairn Islands, located in the Pacific Ocean. Number of people: 56 people.
Knowing the data from this article, you can say with confidence which state is the smallest both in terms of territory and population.
There are countries in this world that boast large populations, but how hard it is to believe that there are also some countries that are quite small. Most people prefer to live in such places because it is cozy and relaxing. They don't have to worry about hundreds of people running around, and in small countries, crime rates are lower because a criminal can't hide in a large crowd. Listed below are the ten smallest countries in the world.
10. Grenada
Famous for the spices that this island has. If you're wondering where nutmeg came from, this is where it comes from. The country is not the smallest, but there is quite a small amount of space. It's so beautiful here and it's a great place to come if you know how to get there or take a boat and then they'll pick you up when you're done. The most popular sport here is cricket. This main view sports on the island. The area of the island is only three hundred and forty-four square meters. km.
9. Malta
This is one of the countries that ended up on this list due to its size. It is located in the Mediterranean Sea. The country occupies three small islands. In total, four hundred and fifty thousand people live on three islands. If you look into history, you will see that Malta is at least 7,000 years old. There are amazing beaches to see and plenty of sunny days and comfortable environment. It's nice to come to these tiny islands and get to know them.
8. Maldives
This place is small, but filled with housing and people. There is water all around and you can go to the beach at any time if you live near one of them and not in the center of the island. If you are in the center, then it will take several hours to leave the island. The Maldives is an independent country, it became such in 1965, and nothing has changed since then.
This amazing place interesting to visit or live here. You'll love the water around you and the amenities throughout the country that make it so amazing. The trees growing here are simply beautiful and allow you to hide in their shade. The country is made up of two islands, but whichever one you go to will be beautiful and relaxing. Sit in a chair and catch some rays, you can do that most of the time you're here.
6. Liechtenstein
If you look at the local hills, you will see houses that look like castles. If you are lucky enough to live in one of them, you will be able to look down on the cities and feel like a queen or king. Just live your life the way you want, spend more time with your family, and not spend all your time working. The country is located in Switzerland. They have the lowest unemployment rate, so you have to find a job and keep it, because they know that people need jobs, not lack of pay.
5. San Marino
All the houses here are similar. Even though the country is small, you will be able to find a job quickly as there are always many jobs available. The country is home to about thirty thousand people, a number that can sometimes rise or fall rapidly. There are beautiful green meadows and trees, among which it will be pleasant to walk or hike almost every day. It is one of the most prosperous places to live due to its low unemployment rate.
4. Tuvalu
About ten thousand people live here. There is only one hospital in Tuvalu, so if you need medical help, you know where to look. About two thousand people visit the country every year. This is according to 2010 data. Most of them come on business, others just to see the country. Most people come on business, so they stay here for a short time. Tuvalu looks like a bunch of trees, so no one knows anything about the island.
3. Nauru
This country is located at east coast Australia and in the 80s. it was one of the most popular places for phosphate mining. Now it is a quiet place that tourists do not even think about visiting. The unemployment rate here is ninety percent, and only 10 percent of the people work for the government. It also has the highest number of overweight people, with almost equal numbers of men and women. Most people suffer from type 2 diabetes due to the problem of obesity.
2. Monaco
This country has the most rich people in the world. She is also very popular with celebrities. France neighbors Monaco, and on all other sides the principality is surrounded by the waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The majority of local residents speak French as their native language, and the population is more than thirty-six thousand people, so this country ranks second on the list of smallest countries.
1. Vatican 
This country is the smallest that has ever existed and is also called the Holy See. The Vatican is located right in the center of the city of Rome. This country is home to the largest church in the world - St. Peter's Basilica. Here you will find the best works of art, such as the Pieta icon. To survive, the country receives financial assistance from members of the Catholic Church. There are a total of one billion members, which is enough for financial support. The rest of the economic injection comes from money coming from the sale of postage stamps, money paid by museum visitors, and money tourists spend on little trinkets and souvenirs.
These are the Top 10 smallest countries in the world 2017. Each of them would be a great place to go on holiday where you want to relax and get some peace and carefree doing nothing alone or with your partner. If you plan to live in one of these countries, then that's great. Locals friendly and the sights are great.
On June 7, 1929, in accordance with the Lateran Agreements, the Vatican State was formed. You can learn about it and 9 other smallest countries in the world from our selection today
1. Maldives
The island country of the Maldives is located in the Indian Ocean and is the smallest in area Asian country. The area of the country is 298 square meters. km. with a population of 396 thousand. Two thirds of the population lives in the country's capital, Male. Previously the country developed thanks to the export of dried tuna, cowrie shellfish and coconut ropes, now the main income comes from tourism.
2. Seychelles
Seychelles covers an area of 455 square kilometers, with a population of 84 thousand people. The archipelago is located north of Madagascar and consists of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean. The islands managed to develop thanks to the export of coconut, vanilla and cinnamon. But since 1976, when the country gained independence, tourism has become the main source of income.
3. Liechtenstein
This state has no access to the sea. The area of the country is 160.4 square meters. kilometer Liechtenstein borders Switzerland and Austria and is one of the richest countries. Registered here more companies than residents.
Nauru is located in the South Pacific Ocean in Micronesia. The area of the state is 21.3 square meters. kilometer The Republic of Nauru is the smallest island nation in the world. They gained independence in 1968, but the island was home to the Aboriginal people for 3 thousand years. Today the country's population is approximately 9 thousand people. The state of Nauru has no armed forces.
5. Vatican
The Vatican is a closed city-state located in one of the districts of Rome and covering an area of 44 hectares. It was founded in 1929 and is governed by the Pope. The Vatican boasts the most beautiful buildings in the world - the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, the residence of the Pope - Apostolic Palace etc. In addition, half of the country’s territory is occupied by the Vatican Gardens. About 800 people are official citizens of the Vatican, and several thousand Italians commute here to work every day.
The second smallest country is Monaco. Over the past 20 years, thanks to the draining of the sea, the area of the country has increased and now covers an area of 2.02 square meters. kilometer Monaco is the second smallest monarchical state. The country is one of the most populous countries in the world and has 30 thousand inhabitants. The main income for residents comes from tourism.
7. Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis
This dwarf state located in the West Indies - between North and South America on islands Atlantic Ocean. The state is located on two islands with an area of 261 square meters. km. These were the first islands settled by Europeans. Main source income, of course, tourism, but here are also developed Agriculture and offshore banking.
8. Marshall Islands
This state in the center of the Pacific Ocean consists mainly of coral islands. The area of the country is 181 square meters. kilometer, population 62 thousand. In 1986, the Islands gained independence from the United States, but until now only American help helps them “keep afloat.” The country has no natural resources and imports of goods far exceed exports.
9. San Marino
San Marino covers an area of 61 square meters. kilometer and has the smallest population of the member states of the European Council. It is the oldest independent country in the world, founded on September 3, 301. In addition, San Marino is one of the richest countries in the world, its income exceeds its expenses.
10. Tuvalu
Tuvalu is also located in the South Pacific Ocean and covers an area of 26 square meters. kilometers. The country also includes several coral islands. Previously, these islands belonged to the British Crown and were called the Ellis Islands. Tuvalu gained independence from the British in 1978. The country's population is 10.5 thousand people. Due to the lack of natural resources, Tuvalu has to rely on help from other countries.
