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The Vatican was created in 1929 and is the smallest independent nation in the world Although governed by the Bishop of Rome (The Pope) Holy See is officially a monarchy The highest state officials of the Holy See are all clergymen of the Catholic Church Vatican City can be said to be the governmental capital of the Catholic Church The Vatican territory consists of a walled enclave within the city of Rome The Sistine Chapel is in the Apostolic Palace, the official residence of the Pope. Its decoration, by the greatest Renaissance artists, including Michelangelo, whose ceiling is legendary Its fame rests on its architecture, which evokes the Temple of the Old Testament A site of papal religious and functionary activity, notably the conclave, at which a new Pope is selected. The Basilica of St. John Lateran is the cathedral church of Rome and the official seat of the Pope The Basilica of St. John Lateran holds the title of ecumenical mother church among Catholics

The Basilica of St. John Lateran is the oldest and ranks first among the four major basilicas of Rome The Papal Palace or the Palace of the Vatican, is the official residence of the Pope Great shot of St. Peter's Basilica in St. Peters Square Saint Peter's Square, is located directly in front of St. Peter's Basilica, in Vatican City Vatican City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site