Ten smallest countries in the world. What is the smallest country in the world by area? Maldives

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

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 square meters. km. with a population of 396 thousand. Two thirds of the population lives in the country's capital, Male. 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 managed 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.

3. Liechtenstein

This state has no access to the sea. The area of the country is 160.4 square meters. kilometer 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 square meters. kilometer The Republic of Nauru is the smallest island nation in the world. They gained independence in 1968, but the island was home to the Aboriginal people for 3 thousand years. Today the country's population is approximately 9 thousand people. The state of Nauru has no armed forces.

5. Vatican

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

The second smallest country is Monaco. Over the past 20 years, thanks to the draining of the sea, the area of the country has increased and now covers an area of 2.02 square meters. kilometer Monaco is the second smallest monarchical state. The country is one of the most populous countries in the world and has 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 square meters. km. These were the first islands settled by Europeans. The main source of income is, of course, tourism, but agriculture and offshore banking are also developed here.

This state in the center of the Pacific Ocean consists mainly of coral islands. The area of the country is 181 square meters. kilometer, population 62 thousand. In 1986, the Islands gained independence from the United States, but until now only American help helps them “keep afloat.” The country has no natural resources and imports of goods far exceed exports.

San Marino covers an area of 61 square meters. kilometer and has the smallest population of the member states of the European Council. It is the oldest independent country in the world, founded on September 3, 301. In addition, San Marino is one of the richest countries in the world, its income exceeds its expenses.

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

Some countries in the world are quite small in size and occupy less 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 gained 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 opens with Grenada, with an area of 334 sq. km and a population of about 100 thousand inhabitants. This volcanic island in the Caribbean was discovered by Columbus. The territory was first settled by French colonists, then it was transferred to Great Britain according to the Treaty of Versailles. The spirit of France is felt in the country today – in architecture, art and even sports. Local people love to play cricket. Tropical evergreen forests, hills, mountains, beaches - this place could be called paradise, if not for hurricanes. Cocoa, bananas, citrus fruits, cloves and vanilla are grown on the fertile volcanic soils. Grenada is also called the “Spice Island” for its nutmeg production.

9. Malta (316 km²)

One of the smallest countries in Europe by area is Malta (316 sq. km). It is located in the Mediterranean Sea and is famous for its leisurely life. The state unites six islands. Of the 360 thousand people, 80% live in Malta, and in Gozo local residents buy summer houses. Despite its modest size, Malta is visited by more than a million tourists a year. Attracted by ancient temples, nature, rocky and sandy beaches, crystal clear water and a 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 occupy a modest territory - 300 square meters. kilometers. This 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, as it consists of thousands of coral islands. Of these, only 200 are inhabited, and a hundred are given over to tourists. They move between the islands by boats and local dhonis. There is one city - the capital Male, with an area of less than three square meters. kilometers. There is not even room for an airport - planes fly to the neighboring island. Until recently, the residents of the Maldives were mainly engaged in fishing, but today their source of income is serving tourists. The island economy is aimed at it. Guests love it here, because 80% of the territory is golden beaches. Entertainment includes scuba diving and attractions. There is almost no nightlife, because the Maldives is a Muslim country.

7. Saint Kitts and Nevis (269 km²)

Saint Kitts and Nevis - small gState in the eastern Caribbean Sea, with an area of 269 square meters. kilometers. It consists of two islands, Nevis and St. Kitts. Columbus discovered them, and two centuries later the British settled in the territory. The colonies developed quickly thanks to the export of sugar. Since the 90s, the federation has gained independence. Today, 50 thousand people call Saint Kitts and Nevis home, 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 enchants. This gives a large influx of tourists, on whose services the country’s economy is built. Another area of earning money is agriculture. Residents raise goats and sheep, grow pineapples and coffee trees. The islands are suitable 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 square meters. km. Moreover, mountains occupy most of the country's area. There are very few minerals - only limestone, white clay and alabaster. The country makes money from the manufacturing industry, producing canned food and wine. Liechtenstein is prosperous and has a high standard of living. The residents are 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 its abandonment of armed forces - the state has not had an army since the 19th century. And the police force is 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 crowded with tourists during the summer months. Moreover, thanks to reduced taxes, goods here are much cheaper than in Italy. Some residents live in Italian towns and commute to work in San Marino by car. The country's population is about 30 thousand, 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 not by one person, but by two – captains-regents. Almost the entire territory of the country (80%) is occupied by mountains.

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 here is sparse, consisting mainly of imported plants and animals. Plants include palm trees, bananas, and breadfruit. The weather here is not for everyone: 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 trees were knocked down. Many benefits of civilization are still inaccessible to local residents - their way of life has hardly changed over many centuries.

3. Nauru (21 km²)

The island dwarf state of Nauru is located in the Pacific Ocean. Its outline resembles a rectangle. Nauru is unique in 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 water shortage. This is reflected in the flora and fauna - it is sparse, just like in Tuvalu. Nauru's treasury was replenished quickly when phosphate rocks were mined. The country was considered one of the richest in the world, but in the 90s reserves began to decline. The well-being of the population fell. Phosphorite mining has caused damage to 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 sq. km. The entire principality can be walked on foot in an hour. Some tourists even have a photograph where the country fits into one picture. Despite its miniature size, the state managed to announce itself to the world. The city of Monte Carlo and its legendary casino have been heard about in many countries. Formula 1 competitions are held in Monaco. The Principality neighbors France. The country makes money from tourists, and therefore carefully monitors its image. Monaco has been called "Europe's sanctuary for the rich." Blooming azaleas and rhododendrons, a princely court and temples, narrow streets and Mediterranean architecture, modern luxury real estate - walking around the country is a pleasure. The most luxurious yachts in the world 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 sq. km., is located inside Rome and is associated with Italy. In ancient times, the area was not inhabited - it was considered holy. In 326, a basilica was created, and the territory began to be developed. The Vatican is ruled by the Holy See. The main one is the Pope, who is elected for life. There is a government funding for donations from Catholics around the world and income from tourism (souvenirs, museum admission fees, sales of stamps and coins). Almost all citizens of the Vatican are ministers of the Catholic Church.

Order of Malta
The Order of Malta (not to be confused with Malta) is considered the smallest state in the world. It is located in Italy, inside Rome. The area of this country is 0.012 square kilometers. Meanwhile, not all countries of the world recognized the Order of Malta as an independent state. However, it has diplomatic relations with 104 countries and is a permanent observer to the UN. The state issues its own license plates and passports to its residents, and also has its own currency and stamps, which are signs of a full-fledged country.

Vatican
In second place in terms of area is the Vatican. It is also located inside Rome and is considered a state associated with Italy. Its area is 0.44 square kilometers. The country has the strongest support from the entire Catholic community in the world. The head of the Vatican, the Pope, has a great influence on the economic and political balance of power not only in Europe, but also in the world.

Monaco
In third place is the Principality of Monaco, located on the Cote d'Azur. This country is associated with France. Despite its miniature size, Monaco has its own Olympic team, headed by the prince. The main source of income in this state is gambling and tourism. Monaco's area is 2.02 square kilometers.

Nauru
This state covers an area of 21 square kilometers and is located in Oceania, on the coral island of the same name in the western Pacific Ocean. Nauru is the smallest independent republic on the planet and the tiniest island nation. The absence of an official capital is another distinctive feature of this country.

Tuvalu
This is a state in the Pacific Ocean, which is located on five atolls and four islands. Its area is 26 square kilometers. Tuvalu receives its main income from growing coconuts and fishing. In addition, many television companies around the world pay her a million dollars every quarter in exchange for the right to use the .tv domain zone. Despite this, Tuvalu is one of the ten poorest countries on the planet.

San Marino
One of the oldest republics in Europe covers an area of 61 square kilometers. The main income of the state is the issue of postage stamps and tourism. San Marino is surrounded on all sides by Italian territory.

Liechtenstein
This state is associated with Switzerland and has an area of 160 square kilometers. He also earns income from postage stamps and tourism. Its picturesque alpine landscapes attract many tourists.

Marshall Islands
This Pacific country is associated with the United States and is located on 5 islands and 29 atolls. The total area is 181 square kilometers. The state's budget income comes from tourism, coconut exports and fishing.

Cook Islands
This state is self-governing and is in a free state with New Zealand. The Cook Islands are located in the South Pacific Ocean and cover an area of 236 square kilometers.

Saint Kitts and Nevis
This country, located in the eastern Caribbean Sea, consists of two islands - Nevis and St. Kitts. The total area of the state is 261 square kilometers. It is the smallest country in Latin America by area.

Ten smallest countries in the world by population

Vatican
The smallest state in terms of population. Its population is only 840 people.

Niue
Niue has a population of approximately 1,400 people.

Nauru
The population of Nauru is 9,320 people.

Tuvalu
The population of Tuvalu is slightly over 10,000 people.

Order of Malta
The Order of Malta is in fifth place. Its population is 12,500 inhabitants.

Cook Islands
19,600 people live on this archipelago.

Palau
This island nation in the Pacific Ocean is home to 20,850 inhabitants.

San Marino
A population of 32,100 people allowed San Marino to take eighth place in the ranking.

Liechtenstein
This European country is home to 35,900 people.

Saint Kitts and Nevis
The top ten small countries by number of inhabitants is closed by a Latin American state with a population of 50,000 inhabitants.

8th place: - Pacific state associated with the United States. The Republic of the Marshall Islands is located on 29 atolls and 5 islands, with a total area of 181 km² and a population of 68,000 people.

7th place: Liechtenstein- a state in Central Europe associated with Switzerland. Area - 160.4 km², population - 35,870 people.

6th place: - a state surrounded on all sides by Italy. Area - 61 km², population - 32,075 people.

5th place: - Pacific state, located on 5 atolls and 4 islands. The total area is 26 km². Population - 10,544 people. Tuvalu is one of them, and this country would have been even poorer if the country’s leadership had not thought of putting up the national domain zone .tv for auction and a buyer was quickly found, because zone.tv is a tasty morsel for television companies and video sites. Now Tuvalu receives $1 million every quarter in exchange for the right to use the domain zone.tv

4th place: - a state on the coral island of the same name in the western Pacific Ocean with an area of 21 km². Population - 9,322 people. Nauru is the world's smallest independent republic, the smallest island state, the smallest state in Oceania, the smallest state outside Europe, and the world's only republic without an official capital.

3rd place: - principality associated with France. Monaco is located in southern Europe on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Area - 2.02 km², population - 35,986 people.

2nd place: located inside the territory of Rome. The Vatican is a state associated with Italy. The area of the Vatican is 0.44 km². Population - 836 people.

The smallest state in Europe and the whole world - Order of Malta(not to be confused with the state of Malta), the full name is "Sovereign Military Hospitable Order of St. John, Jerusalem, Rhodes and Malta." Like the Vatican, the Order of Malta is located within the territory of Rome. Since 1998, the Order has also owned Fort Sant'Angelo on the island of Malta. The area of the territories controlled by the Order of Malta is 0.012 km². The order consists of 12.5 thousand people who can be considered citizens of this state. Not everyone recognizes the Order of Malta as a state, but the order has diplomatic relations with 104 states and is a permanent observer at the UN. The Order of Malta issues its own passports and license plates, prints its own currency and stamps, i.e. has almost all the signs of a full-fledged state.

Palace of Malta in Rome - the actual capital of the Order of Malta

The smallest states by area by continent and part of the world

The smallest country in Asia is the Maldives (area - 298 km²).

The smallest country in Oceania is Nauru (area - 21 km²).

The smallest country in Europe is the Order of Malta (area - 0.012 km²).

The smallest country in Africa is the Seychelles (area - 455 km²).

The smallest country in North America is Saint Kitts and Nevis (area - 261 km²).

The smallest country in South America is Suriname (area 163,270 km²).

The smallest countries in the world by population

Only independent (including associated) states recognized by other states are included.

10th place: Saint Kitts and Nevis(about this country, see above). Population - 49,898 people.

9th place: Liechtenstein(about this country, see above). Population - 35,870 people.

8th place: (about this country, see above). Population - 32,075 people.

7th place: Palau- an island state in the Pacific Ocean. Is in association with the USA. Consists of 328 islands, with a total area of 458 km². Population - 20,842 people.

6th place: Cook Islands(about this country, see above). Population - 19,569 people.

5th place: Order of Malta(see above for more details). The order consists of 12.5 thousand people.

4th place: (about this country, see above). Population - 10,544 people.

3rd place: (about this country, see above). Population - 9,322 people.

2nd place: Niue- an island and self-governing state entity of the same name in free association with New Zealand in the South Pacific Ocean. Area - 261.46 km², population - 1,398 people.

The smallest state in the world by population (about this country, see above). Population - 836 people.

The smallest states by population by continent and part of the world

The smallest country in Asia - South Ossetia (population - 72,000 people) - is a partially recognized state: it was recognized by Russia and four other UN member states (Nicaragua, Nauru, Venezuela and Tuvalu).

The smallest country in Oceania is Niue (population - 1,398 people)

The smallest country in Europe is Vatican City (population - 836 people)

The smallest country in Africa is the Seychelles (population - 87,476 people)

The smallest country in North America is Saint Kitts and Nevis (population - 49,898 people)

The smallest country in South America is Suriname (population - 472,000 people)

All of the above countries and dependent territories are recognized by the international community or at least by several states, but there is a state not recognized by any country, which is smaller in area than the Order of Malta and smaller in population than the Vatican.
The Principality of Sealand, located on an offshore platform in the North Sea 10 kilometers off the coast of Great Britain, has an area of only 0.00055 km² (550 m²). Regarding the population, in 2002 the Sealand authorities stated that the population of the state was 27 people. However, only a guard permanently lives on the territory of Sealand.

The physical territory of Sealand emerged during the Second World War. In 1942, the British Navy built several platforms on the approaches to the coast. One of them was Rafs Tower. During the war, the platforms housed anti-aircraft guns and were garrisoned by 200 people. After the end of hostilities, most of the towers were destroyed, but the Rafs Tower, being outside British territorial waters, remained untouched. In 1967, retired British Army Major Paddy Roy Bates announced the creation of the sovereign state of Sealand on the territory of the Rafs Tower platform and proclaimed himself Prince Roy I. In 1972, Sealand began minting coins. In 1975, Sealand's first constitution came into force. A flag and coat of arms appeared.
In 1997, it became clear that without the knowledge of the leadership of Sealand, passports of this state were being distributed illegally. In total, more than 150 thousand passports were sold, after which Sealand was forced to cancel the passports. In January 2007, the country's owners announced their intention to sell it. Immediately after this, the torrent site The Pirate Bay began collecting funds for the acquisition of Sealand in order to achieve independence from the authorities of other states, but the deal did not take place.
Sealand official website - sealandgov.org

Only independent states recognized by other states are included. Also included are associated states (a form of confederation of unequal states united on a bilateral basis, in which the smaller state, while formally maintaining sovereignty and independence, entrusts a significant part of its power to the larger state).

10th place: - a state in the eastern Caribbean, consisting of two islands - Saint Kitts and Nevis. The area of the country is 261 km². Population - 49,898 people. Saint Kitts and Nevis is the smallest country in Latin America in terms of area and population.

The southeastern peninsula of St. Kitts, with the island of Nevis in the background

9th place: Cook Islands- an archipelago and self-governing state entity of the same name in free association with New Zealand in the South Pacific Ocean. Area - 236 km², population - 19,569 people.

7th place: Liechtenstein- a state in Central Europe associated with Switzerland. Area - 160.4 km², population - 35,870 people.

6th place: - a state surrounded on all sides by Italy. Area - 61 km², population - 32,075 people.

5th place: - Pacific state, located on 5 atolls and 4 islands. The total area is 26 km². Population - 10,544 people. Tuvalu is one of the poorest countries in the world and this country would have been even poorer if the country’s leadership had not thought of putting up the national domain zone .tv for auction and a buyer was quickly found, because zone.tv is a tasty morsel for television companies and video sites. Now Tuvalu receives $1 million every quarter in exchange for the right to use the domain zone.tv

3rd place: - principality associated with France. Monaco is located in southern Europe on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Area - 2.02 km², population - 35,986 people.

2nd place: located inside the territory of Rome. The Vatican is a state associated with Italy. The area of the Vatican is 0.44 km². Population - 836 people.

Palace of Malta in Rome - the actual capital of the Order of Malta

The smallest states by area by continent and part of the world

The smallest country in Asia is the Maldives (area - 298 km²).

The smallest country in Oceania is Nauru (area - 21 km²).

The smallest country in Europe is the Order of Malta (area - 0.012 km²).

The smallest country in Africa is the Seychelles (area - 455 km²).

The smallest country in North America is Saint Kitts and Nevis (area - 261 km²).

The smallest country in South America is Suriname (area 163,270 km²).

The smallest countries in the world by population

Only independent (including associated) states recognized by other states are included.

10th place: (about this country, see above). Population - 49,898 people.