Small countries of the world and their features. The smallest country in the world in terms of area and population. Video about the state of Tuvalu

Some countries in the world are quite small in size and occupy less land area than megacities. But this does not prevent them from playing a significant role in the world. For example, the Vatican is considered a religious center, Monaco is recognized as a place of luxury, and Liechtenstein has won fame as a prosperous country. The following are smallest countries in the world by area - top 10 rating.

10. Grenada (334 km²)

The list of the smallest countries in the world is opened by Grenada, with an area of 334 square kilometers and a population of about 100 thousand inhabitants. This volcanic island in the Caribbean was discovered by Columbus. First, the territory was settled by French colonists, then it was transferred to Great Britain according to the Versailles Peace Treaty. The spirit of France is felt in the country today - in architecture, art and even sports. The locals love to play cricket. Tropical evergreen forests, hills, mountains, beaches - this place could be called a paradise if not for the hurricanes. Cocoa, bananas, citrus fruits, cloves and vanilla are grown on fertile volcanic soils. Grenada is also called "Spice Island" for the production of nutmeg.

9. Malta (316 km²)

Malta is one of the smallest countries in Europe in terms of area (316 sq. Km). It is located in the Mediterranean Sea and is famous for its leisurely life. The state unites six islands. Out of 360 thousand people, 80% live in Malta, and locals buy summer cottages in Gozo. Despite its modest size, Malta is visited by over a million tourists a year. Attracted by ancient temples, nature, rocky and sandy beaches, crystal clear water and rich underwater world. The Maltese are a cheerful people. Holidays, festivals, theatrical performances and fireworks - there is a lot of entertainment. Crime on the island is almost zero.

8. Maldives (300 km²)

The Maldives also occupies a modest size - 300 sq. kilometers. It is the smallest country in Asia - both in terms of territory and population (about 393 thousand). The state is one of the most dispersed in the world, because it consists of thousands of coral islands. Of these, only 200 are inhabited, and a hundred were given to tourists. They move between the islands on boats and local doni boats. There is only one city - the capital of Male, with an area of less than three square meters. kilometers. There is no room even for the airport - planes arrive on the neighboring island. Until recently, residents of the Maldives were mainly engaged in fishing, and today the source of income is serving tourists. The island economy is targeting it. Guests like it here, because 80% of the territory is golden beaches. From entertainment - scuba diving and attractions. There is almost no nightlife, because the Maldives belongs to the Muslim countries.

7. Saint Kitts and Nevis (269 km²)

Saint Kitts and Nevis - small citystate in the east of the Caribbean, with an area of 269 sq. kilometers. It consists of two islands, Nevis and Saint Kitts. They were discovered by Columbus, and two centuries later the British settled on the territory. The colonies developed rapidly thanks to the export of sugar. Since the 90s, the federation has gained independence. Today Saint Kitts and Nevis is considered their home by 50 thousand people, about 86% are of African descent. Tropical thickets, mountains and meadows, butterflies and exotic birds, coral reefs and a strip of lagoons - the local nature is enchanting. This gives a large influx of tourists, on whose service the country's economy is built. Another area of earning money is agriculture. Residents breed goats and sheep, grow pineapples and a coffee tree. The islands are adapted for life: there is a narrow-gauge road along the coast, highways, ports and two airports.

6. Liechtenstein (160 km²)

Liechtenstein is a European dwarf state with an area of only 160 sq. km. At the same time, mountains occupy most of the country's area. There are very few minerals - only limestone, white clays and alabaster. The country earns on the manufacturing industry, produces canned food and wine. Liechtenstein is thriving and characterized by a high standard of living. The inhabitants were also lucky with nature: alpine meadows, mountain peaks, forests. The climate is mild and pleasant, because the mountain ranges protect from evil winds. Liechtenstein is known for abandoning the armed forces - since the 19th century, the state has no army. And the police are small - 120 employees.

5. San Marino (61 km²)

San Marino is the oldest state in Europe. The dwarf country is called the "Land of Freedom". San Marino is surrounded by Italy. Maybe that's why the country is overcrowded with tourists during the summer months. Moreover, due to the reduced taxes, goods here are much cheaper than in Italy. Some residents live in Italian towns, and get to work in San Marino by car. The number of residents in the country is about 30 thousand people, and it is difficult to obtain a residence permit. You need to live in the territory for 30 years or be married to a local resident for 15 years. San Marino is ruled by not one person, but two at once - captains-regents. Almost the entire territory of the country (80%) is mountainous.

4. Tuvalu (26 km²)

The tiny state of Tuvalu in Polynesia could not keep up with its "colleagues". The country is considered one of the poorest. Even the nature is scarce here, it consists mainly of imported plants and animals. From plants there are palms, bananas, breadfruit. The weather here is not for everybody: long droughts give way to the rainy season. Sometimes destructive cyclones pass through Tuvalu. Because of one of them, houses were completely torn apart and 90% of the trees were felled. Many benefits of civilization are still inaccessible to local residents - their way of life has hardly changed over the centuries.

3. Nauru (21 km²)

The island dwarf state of Nauru is located in the Pacific Ocean. Its shape resembles a rectangle. The unique difference between Nauru is that it does not have an official capital. There are no rivers on the island, and therefore one of the main problems of local residents is the lack of water. This is reflected in the flora and fauna - it is scarce, as in Tuvalu. Nauru's treasury replenished rapidly when phosphorites were mined. The country was classified as one of the richest in the world, but in the 90s, stocks began to decline. The well-being of the population has fallen. Phosphate mining has damaged the island. Due to the severe pollution of Nauru, tourism is not developed.

2. Monaco (2.02 km²)

Monaco is one of the smallest countries in Europe, with an area of only 2.02 square kilometers. The entire principality can be walked in an hour. Some tourists even have a photo where the country fits into one picture. Despite its diminutive size, the state has managed to declare itself to the world. Many countries have heard about the city of Monte Carlo and its legendary casino. Formula 1 competitions are held in Monaco. The principality is adjacent to France. The country makes money on tourists, and therefore carefully monitors its image. Monaco is called “the European reserve for the rich”. Blooming azaleas and rhododendrons, the princely court and temples, narrow streets and Mediterranean architecture, modern luxury real estate - walking around the country is a pleasure. The world's most luxurious yachts are parked in the main bay of Monaco.

1. Vatican (0.44 km²)

The Vatican is rightfully recognized as the smallest state in the world. The country, with an area of only 0.44 km2, is located inside Rome and is associated with Italy. In ancient times, the area was not inhabited - it was considered sacred. In 326, the basilica was created, and the territory began to be developed. The Vatican is ruled by the Holy See. The Pope is considered the main one, who is elected for life. There is a state on donations from Catholics around the world and tourism revenues (souvenirs, entrance fees to museums, sale of stamps and coins). Almost all Vatican citizens are ministers of the Catholic Church.

The size of the country was of decisive importance in the Ancient World and the Middle Ages. More citizens and the size of the territory - more soldiers, peasants, workers, arable land. Developed tourism, investment, good diplomatic relations with all countries for the sale of passports to rich people, and business opportunities to work with low taxes are now of great importance.

At present, small countries usually originated from the former appanage principalities, or the islands-colonies of Great Britain, Spain and France. Some chose association, union, and other forms of subordination to their former metropolises over independence. This article will help you find out which is the smallest country today.

20 smallest countries in the world

The list does not include former colonial territories associated with large countries and in any way dependent on them. Sovereign and individual only.

Order of Malta (not Malta)... The area is 120 square meters. On this territory is the palace-headquarters of the order, standing in Rome. This building is essentially the state. Issued their own brands, car numbers, passports. It is the smallest country in Europe and it is also the smallest country in the world in terms of territory.
Vatican... 0.44 km². This is the official seat of the center of the Catholic Church. About a thousand people have citizenship, mainly priests, cardinals, archivists, papal representatives (legates).
Monaco... 2 km². Former principality currently associated with France. There are expensive casinos, Formula 1 venues and other entertainment for the rich. The most populous state in Europe.
Nauru... 21 km². A small island located in the Pacific Ocean. It possessed large deposits of phosphorites, thanks to which its inhabitants became one of the richest people on earth. However, they were soon exhausted and the economy collapsed sharply, plunging an unprepared country into poverty.
Tuvalu... 26 km². Everyone is used to considering the poorest countries in Africa. However, this island-state is located in the Pacific Ocean. Earns by reselling the .TV domain, which is bought by TV channels around the world.
San marino... 61 km². According to legend, it was founded by a bricklayer named Marino, who founded a Christian community on the mountain. The small but proud state was not touched even by Napoleon when he conquered Italy.
Liechtenstein... 160 km². In the gorge between Switzerland and Italy, a separate modern state, at the same time rich, has grown from a medieval city. It is named so because of the surname of the ruling dynasty.
Cook Islands... 236km². They receive help from New Zealand, earn money from tourism, sea fishing. This name was given in the 19th century from the Russian navigator Ivan Kruzenshtern. James Cook himself called them differently at one time.
Saint Kitts and Nevis... 261km². State of two islands in the Caribbean. They export tobacco, sugar, oils, fruits. And quite successfully: in terms of GDP - 74th place in the world. The smallest country in South America.
Maldives... 298 km². It is an archipelago, a chain of small 26 atolls, consisting of coral reefs, out of 1192. It is located in the Indian Ocean.
Malta... 316 km². The name comes from the words sweet honey. Such a small territory in the Mediterranean Sea could belong to Russia, because Emperor Paul was chosen as the head of the order of the Johannites (who inhabited the island from the moment of their discovery) and ruler. However, his death and the policy of the new sovereign Alexander of the commonwealth with England disrupted all plans. So the British made their military base there, and in the 60s of the last century gave independence.
Grenada... 344 km². The country has an interesting history. At first there were plantations with slaves, then there was a revolution and the rule of the communists, and then a new coup and the rule of conservatives, supporters of the western model of the economy.
Barbados... 431 km². It was a colony of the Portuguese, then after the uprising of slaves, an independent territory.
Antigua and Barbuda... 440 km². The name translates to ancient and bearded. Classically descended from a former colony.
Seychelles... 455 km². Successful against the background of other African powers due to the offshore economy and highly developed tourism industry.
Andorra... One of the richest (minimum wage 1000 euros) and ancient (mentioned in 778) states in Europe. At the same time, it is small - 468 km². The economy is independent of the government, the budget is replenished through tourism and banking services.
Saint Lucia... 616 km². Discovered by Columbus on the feast of Saint Lucia. Later it became the possession of England.
Micronesia 702 km². The name is from the word small, which is confirmed in practice. Consists of 116 islands. Depends on US aid, providing them with a base for the fleet in return. Dogs are bred for meat for export.
Bahrain... 766 km². Exports gas, oil, pearls, offshore. Located in the Persian Gulf. One of the few places on the planet where there are more men than women.
Caribati... 812 km². Consists of atolls (coral reefs that have become dry land). First it was occupied by Japan, then it gained independence. The country is threatened by flooding, overpopulation, climate change, as the president (who is also the foreign minister and head of government) often announces from the UN rostrum. On one of the islands, the US nuclear and hydrogen bomb was tested.

TOP 10 smallest countries by population

Vatican... The smallest country in terms of area, it also has the smallest population. About a thousand people have citizenship. Basically, it is temporary, for those who work under a contract in the Vatican. Monks-priests and the apparatus of the Roman Catholic Church have a lifelong term.
Tuvalu... 10,000 people. Small territory and just as small number of people on it. 94% of this indigenous population is Indians.
Nauru... 10,500 people. In good times, the population was many times larger, with 70% of them foreigners. Now there are about 10% of them.
Cook Islands... 17,500 people. The population mixed with the citizens of New Zealand. There it mainly flows from the island due to unemployment.
San marino... 30,000 people. It is almost impossible to obtain citizenship for foreigners: you need to be born in San Marino, or have been married for 15 years, or simply live in the territory for 30 years.
Liechtenstein... 37,000. The country is inhabited by immigrants from the German-speaking peoples. At the same time, the birth rate in Liechtenstein is quite high, and not at the expense of migrants.
Monaco... 37 800. Very high population density due to the small area. The average life expectancy is 90 years, longer than in Japan.
South Ossetia... 50,000. This is a little recognized state, which broke away from Georgia together with Abkhazia in 2008, and feels pretty good: schools and a university are working, trade and tourism are well developed. Ossetians consider themselves a part of Russia and strive to unite with it.
Saint Kitts and Nevis... Approximately 50 thousand people. The area was used for plantations, and African black slaves were brought there. Now 94% are their descendants. White is only 1.5%.
Dominica... 73,000. Located in Latin America. There is a high percentage of emigration from Dominica. At the same time, a rather high life expectancy (77 years).

Incredibly varied. Each of them is unique in its own way. However, we are used to the word "country" meaning a huge territory, hundreds of cities and villages. Nevertheless, there are powers in the world with a record small area. Today we will find out which countries are the smallest in area and what features they have.

Heart of Catholicism

The smallest country in the world by area, known to everyone, is the Vatican. A small but incredibly strong state is located in the western part of Rome. Since the residence of the Pope is located in the Vatican, this mini-country is the spiritual center of the entire Catholic world.

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Kitts and Nevis is a pair of islands in the Caribbean that are united into one republic. They are of volcanic origin. The length of the coastline is 135 km. The islands are separated by The Narrows Strait and surrounded by coral reefs.

Power here belongs to the monarch of Great Britain, who is represented on the island by the governor-general. The official language is English. The total area is 261 sq. km.

The population is over 50,000 people. Dominated by Negroes, whose descendants were brought as slaves to the islands. The indigenous inhabitants of the republic were the Caribbean Indians, but in the 17th century they were supplanted by the British. The latter soon had to cede rights to the islands to the French. In the 1980s, Saint Kitts and Nevis gained the possibility of internal self-government. Status - "state associated with Great Britain".

Maldives - a piece of paradise

This piece of paradise in the Indian Ocean is also one of the 10 smallest countries in the world in terms of area. The 1192 coral islets located near Sri Lanka offer beautiful scenery and all the necessary trappings of relaxation. Today a tour to the Maldives is not that expensive - about $ 1,000.

The islands are combined into a target of 26 atolls. The area is only 300 sq. m, which accommodated about 400,000 residents. Religion is Islam. It is noteworthy that out of 1192 islets, only 202 of them are inhabited. The rest are incredibly beautiful, uninhabited corners of the tropics. Scientists assume that they are all volcanic in origin. The Maldives is the smallest country in Asia in terms of area.

The indigenous people are Dravids (people from India). In the V-VII centuries, Persians and Arabs appeared on the islands.

The official language is Dihevi. However, in tourist centers, knowledge of English is also sufficient.

Conclusion

So, we found out which country has the smallest area and which powers are among the ten most modest in size. The rest of the small states of the world, including the island ones, have an area of 400 sq. km and more.

On June 7, 1929, in accordance with the Lateran Agreements, the state of the Vatican was formed. You can learn about him and 9 other smallest countries in the world from our today's selection.

1. Maldives

The island country of the Maldives is located in the Indian Ocean and is the smallest Asian country in terms of area. The area of the country is 298 sq. km. with a population of 396 thousand. The capital of the country, Male, is home to two thirds of the population. 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 have been able 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.

This state has no access to the sea. The area of the country is 160.4 sq. kilometers. Liechtenstein borders Switzerland and Austria and is one of the richest countries. There are more companies registered here than residents.

Nauru is located in the South Pacific Ocean in Micronesia. The area of the state is 21.3 sq. kilometers. The Republic of Nauru is the smallest island nation in the world. They gained independence in 1968, but the island has been home to the Aborigines for 3 thousand years. Today the population of the country is about 9 thousand people. The state of Nauru has no armed forces.

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 run by the Pope. The Vatican boasts the most beautiful buildings in the world - the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, the Pope's residence - the 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 travel here to work every day.

The second smallest country is Monaco. Over the past 20 years, thanks to the drainage of the sea, the country's area has increased and now it covers an area of 2.02 sq. kilometers. Monaco is the second smallest monarchical state. The country is one of the most populous countries in the world with 30 thousand inhabitants. The main income for residents comes from tourism.

This dwarf state is located in the West Indies - between North and South America on the islands of the Atlantic Ocean. The state is located on two islands with an area of 261 sq. km. These were the first islands inhabited by Europeans. The main source of income is, of course, tourism, but agriculture and offshore banking are also developed here.

This state in the middle of the Pacific Ocean consists mainly of coral islands. The area of the country is 181 sq. kilometer, population 62 thousand. In 1986, the Islands gained independence from the United States, but so far only America's help has helped them "keep afloat." The country has no natural resources and imports of goods far exceed exports.

San Marino covers an area of 61 sq. kilometer and has the smallest population of the member states of the European Council. It is the oldest independent country in the world and was founded on September 3, 301. In addition, San Marino is one of the richest countries in the world, with incomes exceeding expenses.

Tuvalu is also located in the South Pacific Ocean and covers an area of 26 sq. kilometers. The country also includes several coral islands. Previously, these islands belonged to the British Crown and were called Ellis Islands. Tuvalu gained independence from the British in 1978. The population of the country is 10.5 thousand people. Due to the lack of natural resources, Tuvalu has to live off the help of other countries.

10

Square: 316 km 2
Population: 429 344 people
Density: 1432 people / km 2
Motto:"By virtue and constancy"
Form of government: Parliamentary republic, democracy
Capital: Valletta

The Republic of Malta is an island state in the Mediterranean Sea. The name comes from the ancient Phoenician malat ("harbor", "refuge").

In 1964, Malta gained independence from Great Britain, and since 1974 a republic was proclaimed, but until 1979, when the last British naval base was liquidated in Malta, the British queen was still considered the head of state.

The territory of Malta is represented by the Maltese archipelago, consisting mainly of the islands of Malta and Gozo. It also includes the uninhabited islands of St. Paul and Filfla, the sparsely populated island of Comino, and the tiny Cominotto and Filfoletta. Malta is 27 km long and 15 km wide (less than the diameter of the Moscow Ring Road). Gozo is half the size and Comino is only 2 km long. Malta is the only country in Europe that lacks permanent rivers and natural lakes.

9

Square: 300 km 2
Population: 341 256 people
Density: 1 359 people / km 2
Form of government: Presidential republic
Capital: Male

The Republic of Maldives belongs to the states of South Asia and is located on a group of atolls, consisting of 1,192 coral islets, in the Iidian Ocean to the south of India.

The islets rise slightly above sea level: the highest point of the archipelago is on the southern atoll of Addu (Siena) - 2.4 m. Thanks to this, the Maldives are known as the lowest located state.

The total area is 90 thousand km2, the land area is 298 km2. The capital Male - the only city and port of the archipelago - is located on the atoll of the same name.

As for tourism, it is worth noting that all the main beauties of the Maldives are located below sea level, while on land there are no special attractions. There is the unremarkable capital of Male, many similar uninhabited islands where people like to have picnics, as well as a kind of "action" - a fishing excursion. Perhaps the only remarkable surface excursion is the "Photo-flight", a flight over the islands by seaplane. Other popular excursions are yacht cruises or submarine dives. The most common way of spending time among tourists in the Maldives is diving, since there are coral reefs near every island. Also popular are windsurfing, catamaran, water skiing, snorkelling, beach volleyball, tennis, billiards, squash and darts.

8

Square: 261 km 2
Population: 51 538 people
Density: 164 people / km 2
Motto:"The state is above personal interests"
Form of government: Parliamentary monarchy
Capital: Buster

An island nation in the Caribbean. Includes 2 islands - Saint Christopher, aka Saint Kitts (Saint Kitts, St. Kitts), and Nevis (Nevis), from the Lesser Antilles ridge. Both islands are of volcanic origin, mountainous. The total length of the coastline is 135 km.

Saint Kitts and Nevis is the smallest state in the Western Hemisphere, both in area and in population.

She is a member of the British Commonwealth, headed by the Queen of Great Britain.

The two traditional industries in Saint Kitts and Nevis are agriculture and tourism. The main agricultural crop is sugar cane (one third of the cultivated land). Cotton, coconut and pineapples are grown on the island of Nevis. The coffee tree, bananas, peanuts, yams, and rice are also cultivated. Livestock raising is developed - goats and sheep are raised. Fishing is also a traditional craft. However, agricultural production provides no more than half of the domestic food needs.

7

Square: 181 km 2
Population: 53 158 people
Density: 293.7 people / km 2
Motto:"Achievement Through Common Effort, Marshallian"
Form of government: Republic
Capital: Majuro

The Micronesian state of the Marshall Islands is a cluster of atolls and islands located in the Pacific Ocean just north of the equator.

The Marshall Islands are named after British Captain John Marshall (also known as William Marshall), who, along with fellow Captain Thomas Gilbert, after whom the neighboring Gilbert Islands are named, explored the archipelago in 1788 while transporting prisoners to New South Wales.

The land area of the Marshall Islands is only 181.3 km 2, while the area occupied by lagoons is 11 673 km 2. The country is located on 29 atolls and 5 outlying islands, which are divided into two groups: 18 islands in the Ralik chain (translated from the Marshallian language as “sunset”) and 16 islands in the Ratak chain (or Radak; translated from the Marshallian language as “sunrise”) ... Both chains are about 250 km apart and stretch from northwest to southeast for about 1200 km. The most important islands are the Kwajalein and Majuro atolls. The largest island in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Kwajalein is also an atoll with the largest lagoon in the world.

6

Square: 160 km 2
Population: 37 313 people
Density: 229.56 people / km 2
Motto:"For God, Prince and Fatherland"
Form of government: nominally constitutional monarchy
Capital: Vaduz

The Principality of Liechtenstein is a dwarf state in Central Europe. Liechtenstein borders with Austria in the east and Switzerland in the west, its territory is completely surrounded by the territories of these states.

The principality is located in the spurs of the Alps, the highest point is Mount Graushpitz (2,599 m). One of the largest rivers in Western Europe, the Rhine, flows through the western part of the country.

The Principality of Liechtenstein is a constitutional monarchy. The head of state is the prince. Legislative power belongs to the prince and the Landtag (parliament), the executive power is vested in the government, which is elected by the Landtag for the term of his office and approved by the prince. The majority of the population speaks the Alemannic dialect of the German language.

This beautiful fairy-tale country, despite its very small size, is famous for its ancient history and rich cultural heritage. Picturesque natural landscapes, magnificent medieval architecture and, of course, a fashionable ski resort are famous all over the world.

The heart of Liechtenstein and its "pearl" is the capital Vaduz. It is here that most of the country's attractions are concentrated. The visiting card not only of the city, but of the entire state is the magnificent princely castle of Vaduz. A wonderful architectural structure rises on a hill and can be seen from anywhere in the city.

5

Square: 61 km 2
Population: 32 742 people
Density: 520 people / km 2
Motto:"Freedom"
Form of government: parliamentary republic
Capital:

San Marino is located in southern Europe, surrounded on all sides by the territory of Italy. Within its current borders, San Marino is the oldest state in Europe. The country is located on the southwestern slope of the three-domed mountain range of Monte Titano (738 m above sea level), towering above the hilly plain of the foothills of the Apennines.

The legendary foundation of San Marino dates back to the beginning of the 4th century. According to legend, in 301, a member of one of the first Christian communities from the island of Rab in the Adriatic Sea (the territory of modern Croatia), the stonecutter Marino and his friends found refuge in the Apennines, on the top of Monte Titano. He opened quarries in the mountain, and then, seeking solitude, he built himself a small cell on its top and withdrew from the world. The glory of his holy life attracted crowds of pilgrims to him, and soon a small monastery was formed near his cell. This monastery, named after its founder, Saint Marina, undoubtedly existed already at the end of the 6th century and lived an independent life, politically independent of any of its neighbors.

San Marino has a republican form of government. The heads of state are two captain-regents appointed by the Grand General Council.

Inbound tourism plays a significant role in the country's economy; up to 2 million people are involved in the tourism industry on the territory of the state annually, and more than 3 million tourists visit the country every year.

4

Square: 26 km 2
Population: 10 782 people
Density: 431,00 people / km 2
Motto: Tuvalu for Almighty God
Form of government: monarchy
Capital: Funafuti

Tuvalu is a tiny state in Oceania with a population of about 11,000. Airplanes from Fiji arrive here 2 times a week and almost certainly, in 50 years, this state will be under water, and now there is a purposeful resettlement of local residents to other states, such as Fiji, New Zealand and Australia.

This Pacific state is located in Polynesia and until 1975 was called the Ellis Islands. The modern name translated from the Tuvalu language means "eight standing together" (meaning the eight traditionally inhabited islands of Tuvalu; the ninth - Niulakita - was inhabited relatively recently). The European discoverer of the islands, Alvaro Mendanha de Neira, called the archipelago "Lagoon Islands", and in 1819 it was named "Ellis Islands", which was used for almost the entire colonial era

Tuvalu is a cluster of atolls and islands located in the Pacific Ocean just south of the equator. Tuvalu's land area is only 26 km 2, while the area occupied by lagoons is more than 494 km 2. The country is located on 5 atolls (Nanumea, Nui, Nukulaelae, Nukufetau, Funafuti), 3 low-lying coral islands (Nanumanga, Niulakita, Niutao) and one atoll / reef island (Vaitupu), stretching from northwest to southeast for 595 km ...

A significant part of Tuvalu's population lives in the capital and only city of the country, Funafuti, - 47%.

3

Square: 21 km 2
Population: 9 488 people
Density: 473.43 people / km 2
Motto:"God's will comes first"
Form of government: parliamentary republic
Capital: There is no official capital; unofficial - the city of Yaren.

The Republic of Nauru is a dwarf state on the coral island of the same name in the western part of the Pacific Ocean. The origin of the word "Nauru" is not exactly known. As it is now, the Nauruans in the distant past called the island "Naoero".

There is no official capital or cities on the island. The seat of the president is in Meneng County, while government offices and parliament are in Yaren County. The entire population of the island lives along the coast, as well as around Lake Bouada.

2

Square: 2.02 km 2
Population: 30 508 people
Density: 18 679 people / km 2
Motto:"With God's help"
Form of government: dualistic constitutional monarchy
Capital:

A dwarf state associated with France, located in the south of Europe on the coast of the Ligurian Sea near the French Cote d'Azur, 20 km northeast of Nice; on land it borders on France. It is one of the smallest and most populous countries in the world. The principality is widely known for its casinos in Monte Carlo and the stage of the Formula 1 championship held here - the Monaco Grand Prix. The length of the coastline is 4.1 km, the length of the land borders is 4.4 km. Over the past 20 years, the country's territory has increased by almost 40 hectares due to the drainage of marine areas.

The first people built their settlements on the territory of Monaco in the X century BC. e., these were the Phoenicians. The Greeks and Monoiks joined much later.

The history of modern Monaco begins in 1215 with the founding of a colony of the Republic of Genoa on the territory of the principality and the construction of a fortress.

As of 2014, the population of Monaco is 37,800 people, but it is worth noting that most of the full citizens of the state are Monegasques. They are exempt from taxes and have the right to settle in the area of the old city.

The economy of Monaco is developing mainly due to tourism, gambling, the construction of new residences, as well as due to media funds covering the life of the princely family.

1

Square: 0.44 km 2
Population: 842 people
Density: 1900 people / km 2
Form of government: absolute theocratic monarchy
Capital:

And, undoubtedly, the title of the smallest state in the world belongs to the Vatican. The Vatican is a dwarf enclave state (the smallest officially recognized state in the world) within the territory of Rome, associated with Italy. The status of the Vatican in international law is an auxiliary sovereign territory of the Holy See, the seat of the highest spiritual leadership of the Roman Catholic Church.

Foreign diplomatic missions are accredited to the Holy See, not to the Vatican city-state. Foreign embassies and missions accredited to the Holy See, due to the small territory of the Vatican, are located in Rome (including the Italian embassy, which is thus located in its own capital.

In antiquity, the territory of the Vatican (lat.ager vaticanus) was not inhabited, since in ancient Rome this place was considered sacred. Emperor Claudius held circus games at this place. In 326, after the arrival of Christianity, the Basilica of Constantine was erected over the supposed tomb of St. Peter, and since then this place has been inhabited.

The Vatican is a theocratic state ruled by the Holy See. The sovereign of the Holy See, in whose hands the absolute legislative, executive and judicial powers are concentrated, is the Pope, who is elected by the cardinals for a life term. After the death or abdication of the Pope and during the conclave until the enthronement of the new Pope, his duties (with significant restrictions) are performed by the Camelengo.

The Vatican has a non-profit planned economy. The sources of income are primarily donations from Catholics around the world. Some of the funds are tourism (sale of postage stamps, Vatican euro coins, souvenirs, museum visits). Most of the workforce (museum attendants, gardeners, janitors, etc.) is made up of Italian citizens.

The Vatican's budget is $ 310 million.

The Vatican has its own bank, better known as the Institute for Religious Affairs.