Why is the Vatican City Considered a Country and Not Just Part of Italy?

Until 1860, a significant portion of central Italy was directly under the rule of the Pope, known as the Papal States. These territories played a crucial role in the spiritual life of not only Italy but the entire Catholic world. However, these territories were gradually lost in the aftermath of the 1859-1860 war, which ultimately led to the unification of Italy. A small part, including Rome, remained under Papal control for another ten years.

When the last vestiges of Papal territory were incorporated into Italy in 1870, the Pope retreated to the Vatican, calling himself a prisoner. This situation gave rise to what was known as the ‘Roman Question’, as the Pope refused to recognize the sovereignty of the new Italian Kingdom. This created a stand-off between the Pope and the Italian government.

Historical Context and the Formation of Vatican City

The Pope's loss of temporal power did not diminish his spiritual authority, which remained immense. This tension continued until the Lateran Treaty in 1929, which established Vatican City as an independent state, separate from Italy. This treaty was further solidified by Benito Mussolini, who signed the treaty on behalf of the Italian government in 1929. With this, Vatican City officially became a sovereign state with a population of around 800,000”.

Vatican City as a City-State

Despite its sovereign status, the Vatican City is not classified as a typical country. It is considered a city-state, meaning it consists of an independent city that functions as a country. Unlike full-fledged countries, the Vatican has a seat in the United Nations as only an observer, not as a full member.

Why the Vatican City Remains Independent of Italy

There are several reasons why the Vatican City maintains its independence:

1. Political Influence: Making the Vatican part of Italy would give control of the entire Catholic Church to a secular institution, much like making Italy an extension of the Vatican would bring similar problems. The current arrangement is seen as the best solution to ensure the separation of church and state.

2. Historical Precedent: Historically, the Vatican has been its own country. However, in 2023, the case for its independence might need to be reconsidered. In 1945, allowing it to remain independent was indeed a controversial decision, given the Pope's collaboration with Hitler during World War II. Other countries that were similarly afraid of the Nazis fought harder against them rather than collaborating.

3. Papal Authority: The Pope's refusal to acknowledge Italian sovereignty underpinned the need for the Vatican to remain independent. The Pope's spiritual authority and his seclusion in the Vatican further underscored the necessity of preserving the Vatican’s political autonomy. The document 'Non expedit' also demonstrates the Pope's attempt to preserve the Catholic community's adherence to his spiritual guidance.

Conclusion

The Vatican City's status as an independent nation, despite its small size, is a result of centuries of negotiation and theacknowledgment of spiritual and political influences. Its unique status as a city-state ensures that its independence is maintained, providing a delicate balance between church and state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why doesn't the Vatican have a seat in the UN?

A: The Vatican is recognized as a subject of international law, but it is not a member of the United Nations. It participates as an observer state, emphasizing its spiritual rather than political nature.

Q: How does the Vatican City manage its finances?

A: The Holy See operates a sophisticated financial system, including the Vatican Bank, which manages the financial assets and revenues of the Vatican City State.