So the holiday season is almost on us,usually you need to take a hefty chunk of your annual leave if you want to explore an entire country on one trip. Not always though. If you want to pack an entire nation’s sights into one long weekend, then here are the six smallest countries in the world.
Holy See
Also known as the State of Vatican City, not everyone realises that the spiritual home of the catholic faith is its own nation. But at 0.2 square miles, it is in fact the world’s teeniest country, with a population of just 466. Not to be missed is the Basilica of St Peter – the huge cathedral famously designed by Michelangelo, with its amazingly decorated interior and great views from the top of the dome (free if you climb the 323 stairs up, or 6 Euros by lift). The Basilica’s crypt includes tombs of the former Popes and there are several daily masses held in the cathedral, and the option of guided tours. The smallest country in the world is home to one of the largest public spaces in the world - the huge 1660s-built Piazza di San Pietro, outside the Basilica.
Monaco
There’s a population of 32,500 packed into the 0.7 square miles of Monaco, which lies along the French Riviera on the French Mediterranean coast near Nice. Independent off-and-on since the 13th century, the world’s second smallest country smacks of wealth, with its multi-million pound yachts in the harbour, extravagant lifestyle, discreet banking facilities and heavily policed streets. The most popular times to soak up the glitz are during big annual events such as the Tennis Masters Series in April and the Formula 1 Grand Prix in May, along with festivals like the Monaco International Non Violent Film Festival and the Monte Carlo Opera. But even between the extravaganzas, Monaco's scenic walking routes, pretty costal bays and al fresco cafés make it an appealing destination.
Nauru
Populated by 13,770, this 8.4 square mile, potato-shaped island was once affluent, supplying Australia with abundant fertiliser for almost a century. But the economy took a downward turn when the phosphate began to run out and by 2005, Nauru was a nearly failed state with an uncertain future, dependent on injections of cash from other countries. Tourism has never been top of the tiny island’s agenda, but with their airline recently resurrected, and vegetation becoming restored, this might change. And there’s interesting stuff to see, including remnants of the Japanese WWII occupation, small beaches, a small Chinatown and the lunar-like landscape of the mined centre. There are two hotels to choose from - the fairly modern Menen Hotel, with a bar, restaurant, pool and tennis courts, and the more budget Od'n Aiwo Hotel.
Tuvalu
The six atolls and three islands that make up this 9-square mile country curves northwest-southeast in a chain 676 km long on the outer western edge of Polynesia. During World War II, large numbers of American troops were stationed on the islands of Tuvalu and an old runway exists on the northeastern side of Nanumea, with several World War II planes wrecks and a visible airstrip. These days the world’s fourth smallest country is inhabited by 12,000, and the Funafuti Conservation Area makes it an excellent place for visitors to snorkel and scuba dive. There are six uninhabited islets with native broadleaf forest and coral sand beaches are located within the protected area, home to coconut crabs, nesting seabirds and turtles – and a variety of colourful fish can easily be seen through the clear blue lagoon.
San Marino
Located on Mount Titano, north of Italy, San Marino has the smallest population of all the members of the European council, with just 29,000 inhabitants. It is also one of Europe’s oldest nations (it’s existed since the 4th century) and apart from the Holy See, is the only city-state completely surrounded by another country. San Marino holds a wealth of history in its 24 square miles, with museums and priceless architectural monuments, and the perfectly preserved medieval centre is a highlight, with its narrow, winding streets, churches and ancient houses. Cars are banned so you can explore the city's ramparts peacefully by foot. You can also head to the peak of its mountain for a stunning, panoramic view of fertile soils of the Emilia Romagna region of Northern Italy, the rolling hills of the Marche and Montefeltro, and the calm Adriatic Sea.
Liechtenstein
At 62 square miles and a population of around 34,000, Liechtenstein is often overlooked in favour of its neighbours Switzerland and Austria, despite being a fair match for both. If you’re the sporty type then there’s loads of hiking and cycling fun to be had in the stunning mountain ranges or valleys during summer, and skiing, ice skating and sledging in the winter months. If you’re not the sporty type you can enjoy its pretty villages with quaint chapels, and there’s plenty to do in Vaduz, the country’s capital. Its landmark is the Liechtenstein royal family home - the medieval castle of Schloss Vaduz, and other sites include the Postage Stamp Museum, the National Library, the Ski Museum, the National Museum and the Liechtenstein Art Museum contains – which includes works by Rembrandt, Rubens and Van Dyck.
So I think Tuvalu is on the list , and I have a friend that would say Monaco.... due to the F1.
Until da next Tyme !
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