Skip to main content

History of Vatican City

Author:
Video Rating:
TV-PG
Video Duration:
2:24

In the 16th century, the pope ruled over a vast area of Italy called the Papal States.

FACT CHECK: We strive for accuracy and fairness. But if you see something that doesn't look right, click here to contact us! HISTORY reviews and updates its content regularly to ensure it is complete and accurate.

RELATED CONTENT

Did you know the Vatican is the smallest nation-state in the world? Get all the facts and figures.

Vatican City

The Vatican Archives hold some unexpected papal correspondence.

Inside The Vatican Archives

Large crowds gather outside St. Peter's Basilica in Rome to hear of the election of the 260th Pope, Cardinal Eugenio Pacelli. The Italian Cardinal became Pius XII.

History Rewind: Cardinal Pacelli Elected Pope 1939

Saint Peter's Basilica is built upon what some historians believe to be Saint Peter's ancient remains.

History of Saint Peter's Basilica

See how Central Park was intricately designed to fulfill the rural needs of urban dwellers.

Super Cities: New York City

Catholic cardinals gather at the Vatican in a centuries-old ceremony to elect a new pope.

Electing a New Pope