There are many dwarf states in the world. Most small countries are located in Europe or on islands. Often they are inside others large states. You can see the sights of mini-countries in one day. However, some of them play an important role in the international political arena. This article provides a list and short description the smallest countries in the world by territory in descending order of their area.

10. Malta

Area 316 km². The capital of the archipelago is the city of Valletta. The island state is located in the Mediterranean Sea. The population is represented by Maltese, Arabs, British and Italians. Scenic Spots attract tourists. The main component of Malta's economy is the tourism business. The country is famous for its cliffs, forts, cathedrals and temples.

9. Maldives

Area 298 km². The Maldives are located in the southern, equatorial waters of the Indian Ocean. The capital of the archipelago is the city of Male, located on the island of the same name. Most The population consists of Maldivians and Indians. The sea is nearby Maldives acquires a blue, transparent tint. The islands are considered a paradise for vacationers. Diving, yachting, and trips on glass-bottomed vessels are especially popular.

8. Saint Kitts and Nevis

Area 261 km². The Federation is located on two islands in the Caribbean Sea. The capital is the city of Basseterre. The majority of residents are of African descent, the rest of the population is mulatto and white. The federation has its own currency, the East Caribbean dollar. The US dollar is in free circulation. The islands are famous for their beaches and bays. average temperature air temperature throughout the year is about +24°C. Tourists come for diving, traveling through the rainforest and horseback riding.

7. Marshall Islands

Area 181 km². The republic is located in the northern part Pacific Ocean. The capital is Majuro Atoll. The archipelago consists of 1152 islands. The population consists of Marshallese, Mestizos, Filipinos and Americans. The republic is associated with the USA. Nuclear weapons tests were carried out here in the last century. Much of the unique nature was destroyed for the sake of coconut palm plantations. There are few attractions on the archipelago. Due to its remoteness, tourism is poorly developed. The islands attract diving enthusiasts: at the depths lies sunken equipment from the Second World War.

6. Liechtenstein

Area 160 km². The state is located in Central. It borders with Austria and Switzerland. The capital is the city of Vaduz. The population is represented by Liechtensteiners, Germans, Swiss, Italians. Despite its modest territory, the country was able to develop economically. In Liechtenstein, per capita income does not lag behind neighboring countries. The cities of the principality are famous for their rich history and have many attractions. The country is replete with Gothic castles, chapels, and authentic villages. Ski resorts are especially popular among tourists.

5. San Marino

Area 61.2 km². The dwarf state is located on the Apennine Peninsula, it is surrounded on all sides by Italy. The capital has the same name, San Marino. The indigenous people are Sanmarinians and Italians. Despite its size, the country has developed agriculture. People grow grapes, olives, and wheat. More than three million tourists visit San Marino every year. The castle towns in which the population lives have retained their medieval appearance. It is prohibited to drive cars in the historical part of the capital.

4. Tuvalu

Area 26 km². The country is located in . The capital of the islands is Funafuti Atoll. Tuvalu is washed by the waters of the Pacific Ocean. The population is represented by Polynesians, the number of foreigners does not exceed two hundred people. The Governor General of the dwarf state represents the interests of the Queen of Great Britain. The local currency, the Tuvalu dollar, has an original design. All the islands are low-lying, the height does not exceed 5 m above sea level, so they suffer. Rising sea levels are degrading groundwater quality. Because of this, agriculture is in decline and the soil is subject to erosion. If the situation worsens, the population will have to move to New Zealand, or in Fiji.

3. Nauru

Area 21.3 km². The state is located on the island of the same name in the Pacific Ocean. There is no capital administrative center is the city of Yaren. Most residents are Nauruans. The island was covered tropical forests. In the 20th century, while mining the mountains, people discovered huge deposits of phosphates and began to mine them. Forest areas in mining areas have turned into rocks. It is impossible to build anything here or plant new forests. Almost the entire territory of the island became a wasteland. Today there is a problem with fresh water, for its extraction, special tanks are installed on the roofs of houses. Tourist activities are limited. Nauru mainly attracts divers.

2. Monaco

Area 2.02 km². The country is located in the south of Europe, the capital is Monte Carlo. On land, Monaco borders France. The ethnic composition is diverse, with French, Italian and Monegasque residents living in the districts. The Principality can be crossed in just a few hours. For many centuries, Monaco has had the status luxury resort. The country is famous for its casinos, beaches of the Cote d'Azur and magnificent. Tourists are recommended to visit the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, Princely Palace, Oceanographic Museum.

1. Vatican

Area 0.44 km². The city-state is located in Europe, it is surrounded by Italy. Just over eight hundred people live here. The country is dominated by a theocratic monarchy. Most tour operators include a visit to the Vatican in their Italy itineraries. The city abounds palace complexes and museums. An Egyptian obelisk dominates St. Peter's Square. Here all year round Pilgrims come from all over the world. Tourists should definitely visit the Sistine Chapel, the Chiaramonti Museum, the Vatican Pinacoteca, and the Gregorian Etruscan Museum.

The smallest countries in the world 🗺

You and I live in huge countries. But there are also small countries on earth. Moreover, although they are small in size, some of them are quite significant and authoritative.

Of the 10 smallest countries, two are located in the Caribbean, four are in Europe, one is in Asia and three are in Oceania. There are four more countries on the continent, 3 of which do not even have access to the sea, and six tiny countries are located on islands. For such countries, livelihoods are vital.

Country Vatican

The most small state it is with an area of ​​0.44 square kilometers, located inside the territory of Rome. The Vatican is a state associated with Italy. Population - 836 people. The strongest apparatus of the entire Roman Catholic Church works for the Vatican with big amount followers all over the world. He receives all his finances from donations from Catholics on a voluntary basis. He also sells stamps, books and part of the money comes from tourists. There is no tax in the Vatican.

Country Monaco

The second smallest country is considered to be with an area of ​​1.96 km². Moreover, there are 23,660 inhabitants per square kilometer. The country is one of the most densely populated countries in the world and has about 30 thousand inhabitants. The main income for residents comes from tourism. Monaco is located on the coast Mediterranean Sea.

Country Nauru

Nauru- a state located on a coral island in the western Pacific Ocean with an area of ​​21 km². Population - 9,322 people. Nauru is the smallest independent republic in the world, the smallest Island state, the smallest state in Oceania, the smallest state outside Europe and the only republic in the world without official capital. The state of Nauru does not have an army.

Country Tuvalu

A Pacific country located on 5 atolls and 4 islands. The total area is 26 km². Population - 10,544 people. Due to lack natural resources Tuvalu has to live off the help of other countries. This country is one of the poorest countries in the world and 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

Country San Marino

A state surrounded on all sides by Italy. Its area is 61 km², population - 32,075 people. Most of the population is engaged in agriculture, growing grapes, fruits, corn and livestock. But the main source of income is tourism. San Marino is one of the richest countries in the world, its income exceeds its expenses.

Country Liechtenstein

A state in Central Europe associated with Switzerland. Area - 160.4 km², population - 35,870 people. has no access to the sea. One of the richest states in the world, the main income comes from a large flow of tourists.

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.

- an archipelago consisting of 15 islands. The State of the Cook Islands is in free association with New Zealand in the South Pacific Ocean. Area - 236 km², population - 19,569 people, of which almost 80% are on the island of Rarotonga. The basis of the economy is tourism.

State in the eastern part Caribbean Sea, between northern and South America. Consists of two islands - Saint Kitts and Nevis, with total area 261 sq. 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.

Country Maldives

The island country is located in the Indian Ocean and is the smallest Asian country in terms of area. Includes approximately 1190 coral islands with a total area of ​​298 square meters. km, population 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.

State of Sealand

All these countries are recognized by the international community, but there is a state that, in terms of area and population, can rightfully be considered the smallest in the world. This state is ( Sealand), with an area of ​​500 square meters. It is a concrete platform with dimensions of 30 by 10 meters. The platform is located outside the three-mile zone in the North Sea, which means it is in neutral waters.

Roy Bates took advantage of this in the 70s and officially occupied this area. Roy proclaimed himself king, his wife queen, and the state proclaimed a monarchy and settled down with all his loyal subjects in his state. But he did not think to stop there; in 1975, Roy issued a constitution and a national currency.

The platform was originally created during the Second World War as a base for the British Army, but was subsequently abandoned, which was used by British Army Major Roy Bates to host a pirate radio station and, to avoid trial, officially declared the independence of Sealand.

Two years later, Britain attempted to occupy the state, but Roy fired several warning shots into the air. A lawsuit was brought against Roy, as an English citizen. But justice triumphed, the court delivered a historically important verdict, it recognized that the case was outside the jurisdiction of Great Britain. In 2002, the population of Sealand was 27 people. However, only a guard permanently lives on the territory of Sealand.

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07/22/2014 at 23:03 · Johnny · 163 000

Top 10 smallest countries in the world

On the world political map there are about 250 officially recognized independent states. Among them there are powerful powers that have significant weight in various international organizations and take an active part in the life of other states. As a rule, these states have a sufficient (for example, Russia) and large population (China).

Along with giant countries, there are also very small states, the area of ​​which does not exceed 500 km², and the number of people living is comparable to the population small town. However, some of these countries play a very significant role. These, for example, include the state of the Vatican - the religious center of all Catholics, headed by the Pope.

As you may have guessed, today we have prepared a ranking of the smallest countries in the world; the main criterion for the distribution of places is the area of ​​territory occupied by the state.

10. Grenada | 344 sq. km

• Primary language: English
• Capital: St. George's
• Population: 89,502 thousand people.
• GDP per capita: $9,000

Grenada is an island state with a constitutional monarchy. Located in the Caribbean Sea. It was first discovered by Columbus in the 14th century. In the agricultural sector, bananas, citrus fruits, and nutmeg are grown, which are subsequently exported to other countries. Grenada is an offshore zone. Thanks to the provision of offshore financial services, the country's treasury is replenished by $7.4 million annually.

9. Maldives | 298 sq. km

• Main language: Maldivian
• Capital: Male
• Population: 393 thousand people.
• GDP per capita: $7,675

Republic of Maldives located on an archipelago of more than 1,100 islands in the Indian Ocean. The Maldives is one of the best resorts in the world, therefore, along with fishing, the main share of the economy is the service sector (about 28% of GDP). There are all conditions for have a wonderful holiday: magnificent nature with a mild climate, . Abundance different types animals, among which they are almost never found. The presence of beautiful underwater caves stretching along the entire archipelago, which will be a real gift for tourists who are fond of diving.

Interesting fact: With such a cluster of islands there is not a single river or lake.

8. St. Kitts and Nevis | 261 sq. km

• Primary language: English
• Capital: Basseterre
• Population: 49.8 thousand people.
• GDP per capita: $15,200

Saint Kitts and Nevis is a federation located on two islands of the same name in the eastern Caribbean Sea. In terms of territory and population, this state is the smallest country in the Western Hemisphere. The climate is tropical. Thanks to this, the islands have a very rich flora and fauna. The main industry that provides the majority of treasury revenue is tourism (70% of GDP). Agriculture is poorly developed, mainly sugar cane is grown. To modernize agriculture and industry in the country, a program was launched - “Citizen for Investment”, thanks to which you can get money by paying $ 250-450 thousand.

Interesting: Pavel Durov (creator of the social network VKontakte) has citizenship in this country.

7. Marshall Islands | 181 sq. km

• Main language: Marshallese, English
• Capital: Majuro
• Population: 53.1 thousand people.
• GDP per capita: $2,851

Marshall Islands (republic), located in the Pacific Ocean. The country is located on an archipelago that includes 29 atolls and 5 islands. The climate on the islands varies, from tropical in the south to semi-desert in the north. The flora and fauna have been significantly changed by humans, including the nuclear tests conducted by the United States in 1954. Therefore, plant species characteristic of this area are practically not found on the islands; others were planted instead. The main sector of the economy is the service sector. Products produced in agriculture, for the most part, are used for their own needs within the country. The country has fairly low taxes, which makes it possible to create offshore zone. Due to undeveloped infrastructure and high prices for transport (flight to the islands), tourism is at the initial stage of development.

6. Liechtenstein | 160 sq. km

• Main language: German
• Capital: Vaduz
• Population: 36.8 thousand people.
• GDP per capita: $141,000

The Principality of Liechtenstein is located in Western Europe, bordering Switzerland and Austria. Although this state occupies a small area, it is very beautiful. Beautiful mountain landscapes, because... the country is located in the Alps, also in the western part of the state flows the most big Europe- Rhine. The Principality of Liechtenstein is a technologically advanced state. Precision instrument making enterprises operate in the country. Also, Liechtenstein is one of the largest financial centers in the world, with a highly developed banking services sector. The country has a very high standard of living and well-being. In terms of GDP per capita, it ranks second in the world, after Qatar, with an amount of 141,000 thousand dollars. Liechtenstein is a striking example of the fact that even such a small country can exist with dignity and occupy a significant place in world politics and economics.

5. San Marino | 61 sq. km

• Main language: Italian
• Capital: San Marino
• Population: 32 thousand people.
• GDP per capita: $44,605

The Republic of San Marino is located in the southern part of Europe and borders Italy on all sides. San Marino is the oldest European state, formed in the 3rd century. This country is located in a mountainous area, 80% of the territory lies on the western slope of Monte Titano. Ancient buildings and the mountain of Monte Titano itself are among the objects World Heritage UNESCO. The basis of the economy is manufacturing, which accounts for 34% of GDP; the service sector and tourism also play an important role.

4. Tuvalu | 26 sq. km

• Main language: Tuvalu, English
• Capital: Funafuti
• Population: 11.2 thousand people.
• GDP per capita: $1,600

The state of Tuvalu is located on a cluster of atolls and islands (9 in total) and is located in the Pacific Ocean. The climate in this country is tropical, with distinct seasons of rain and drought. Often they pass through the islands. Vegetable and animal world The food supply of this state is quite scarce and is represented mainly by animals brought to the islands - pigs, cats, dogs and plants - coconut palms, bananas, breadfruit. The economy of Tuvalu, like other countries in Oceania, is mainly made up of the public sector, and to a minor extent agriculture and fishing. Also, Tuvalu is among the poorest in the world.

3. Nauru | 21.3 sq. km

• Main language: English, Nauruan
• Capital: None (Government is located in Yaren County)
• Population: 10 thousand people.
• GDP per capita: $5,000

Nauru is located on a coral island in the Pacific Ocean and is the smallest republic in the world. This country does not have a capital, which also makes it unique. The climate on the island is quite hot, with high humidity. One of the main problems of this country is the shortage of fresh water. Just like in Tuvalu, flora and fauna are very sparse. The main source of replenishment of the treasury for a long time was the mining of phosphorites (in those years the country was one of the richest countries in the world with a high GDP), but since the 90s the level of production began to decline, and with it the well-being of the population. According to some estimates, phosphate reserves should have lasted until 2010. In addition, the development of phosphorites caused irreparable damage to the geology and ecosystem of the island. Tourism is not developed due to the severe pollution of the country.

2. Monaco | 2.02 sq. km

• Main language: French
• Capital: Monaco
• Population: 36 thousand people.
• GDP per capita: $16,969

Notable: Monaco is the only state in which the number of regular troops (82 people) is less than the military band (85 people).

1. Vatican | 0.44 sq. km

• Main language: Italian
• Form of government: Absolute theocratic monarchy
• Pope: Francis
• Population: 836 people.

The Vatican, the leader of our ranking, is the smallest country in the world. This city-state is located inside Rome. The Vatican is the seat of the highest leadership of the Roman Catholic Church. Citizens of this state are subjects of the Holy See. The Vatican has a non-profit economy. The bulk of the budget comes from donations. Also, cash receipts to the treasury come from the tourism sector - payment for visits to museums, sale of souvenirs, etc. The Vatican plays a significant role in resolving military conflicts, calling for the preservation of peace.

There is an opinion that the smallest country in the world is the Order of Malta, with an area of ​​0.012 km2, because... it has all the necessary attributes to be called a state (its monetary unit, passports, etc.), but its sovereignty is not recognized by all members of the world community.

It is worth noting that there is a so-called principality Sealand(from English - sea land), the area of ​​which is 550 sq.m. This state is located on a platform, not far from the shores of Great Britain. But, since the sovereignty of this state was not recognized by any country in the world, it was not included in our rating.

The smallest country in Eurasia is 0.44 sq. km.
The smallest country on the African continent is Seychelles – 455 sq. km.
The smallest country on the North American continent is 261 sq. km.
The smallest country on the South American continent is Suriname - 163,821 sq. km.

Readers' Choice:

There are a lot of dwarf states in Europe, but the standard of living in them is very high. Residents of these countries are employed in tourism business, which brings the main income to the treasury. Which of these dwarf countries are the most popular among tourists from all over the world?

Vatican. This is the most famous dwarf state in the world. There are no analogues to this place on the planet, because the Vatican is the residence of the Pope. In addition, this state is located in the center of another state - Italy. In the heart of Rome is the smallest country in the world, with an area of ​​only 0.44 square meters. kilometers, but there is a bank in the Vatican, Railway, mail. In addition, this state has its own army!

Monaco. This is the second smallest state after the Vatican. Principality on Cote d'Azur occupies an area of ​​1.96 square meters. kilometer However, tourists are not at all embarrassed by the size of the tiny principality. Only wealthy people come here to relax, because Monaco is a symbol of luxury and wealth. Revenues to the treasury are brought in not only by tourism, but also by real estate and casinos. Popularity to Monaco, how to tourist center, came about 50 years ago when actress Grace Kelly married Prince Rainier. This woman turned a tiny country into one of the most powerful powers.

San Marino. This small state is much larger in area than Monaco and the Vatican. On an area of ​​61 sq. km there is where a simple tourist can roam! Despite its tiny size, this state can be called the most independent in the world. The fact is that San Marino has maintained its independence for fifteen centuries. It is advantageously located on Monte Titano, so few conquerors reached the top. To date historical Center San Marino and the summit famous mountain included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Liechtenstein. Compared to other dwarf states, Liechtenstein is a real giant. Its area is 160 square kilometers, but the country is home to only six thousand people. Residents say they know each other by sight. Like other tiny countries, Liechtenstein has to survive on tourists, of whom there are many all year round. Most of the country's territory is occupied by mountains, the gentle slopes of which are favored by skiers from all over the world. Tens of thousands of tourists come here during the winter months! Almost all residents of Liechtenstein work in the tourism sector. You can get to the dwarf state from Switzerland or Austria. Malta. This small island state is also one of the dwarf countries of Europe. In terms of area (316 square kilometers), Malta is inferior to Andorra and Luxembourg. Although this country is not very big in size, it can boast of an almost ideal climate, beautiful sights and beaches, very tasty cuisine and developed infrastructure. In addition, Malta has rich history and is characterized by linguistic diversity. Every tourist will find something interesting to do here.

Ecology

Can you boast that you have been to every corner of your country? Most of us, of course, will answer in the negative. The average person is more likely to not be able to visit every locality and area of ​​your country, especially if it occupies a fairly large territory. However, if you live in some dwarf state, you will not have such a problem. In fact, in order to travel around your entire country you will need no more than one day, and maybe just a couple of hours. For example, between breakfast and lunch you can take a walk and visit every corner of your state.

1) Vatican

The Vatican is a dwarf state located in one of the districts of Rome. It is a closed city-state with an area of ​​only approximately 44 hectares. The Vatican is not a very old country. The state was founded just in 1929 and is governed by the Bishop of Rome, known as the Pope. On the territory of the Vatican there are the most beautiful buildings in the world: St. Peter's Basilica, The Sistine Chapel, Apostolic Palace(residence of the Pope), several museums and many others most beautiful buildings. In addition, this tiny area also houses the Vatican Gardens, which cover about half of the country. About 800 people are official citizens of the Vatican, but several thousand more Italians come here every day to work.

2) Monaco

Monaco is the second smallest country in the world and covers an area of ​​2.02 square kilometers. Thanks to the draining of the sea, the country's area has increased slightly over the past 20 years. The country is also the second smallest monarchical state. Monaco is located in Southwestern Europe on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, bordering on land with France. Monaco is one of the most populous countries in the world, with a population of about 30 thousand people. Residents are mainly engaged in tourism, as many guests come here to gamble and enjoy a holiday by the sea.

3) Nauru

Located in Micronesia, in the South Pacific Ocean, Nauru is a dwarf island nation with an area of ​​only 21.3 square kilometers. The Republic of Nauru is the smallest island nation in the world. The state gained independence in 1968, but the island has been home to Aboriginal people for at least 3,000 years. The first westerner to visit the island was John Fearn. He gave the island the name "Pleasant". Today the country's population is 9 thousand people, the state has no armed forces.

4) Tuvalu

Also located on the islands of the South Pacific Ocean, the dwarf nation of Tuvalu covers an area of ​​26 square kilometers. The country includes several coral islands. Previously, these islands were called the Ellis Islands and belonged to the British Crown. The islands were discovered in 1568 and were administered by Great Britain until the end of the 19th century. Tuvalu gained complete independence from the British only in 1978. Currently, the country's population is about 10.5 thousand people. Since there are practically no natural resources, Tuvalu lives on aid from other countries.

5) San Marino

Covering an area of ​​61 square kilometers, San Marino is the 5th smallest country in the world. San Marino also has the smallest population of any member state of the European Council. San Marino is one of the oldest independent countries in the world. The founding date of this country is September 3, 301. The country's constitution dates back to 1600, making San Marino the second oldest constitutional republic in the world. San Marino is also one of the richest countries on the planet, with no debt and revenues exceeding budget expenditures.

6) Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein is a country surrounded on all sides by land, located in Europe. The country's area is 160.4 square kilometers and borders Switzerland and Austria. Liechtenstein may be one of the smallest countries on the planet, but it also ranks among the richest. It's developed here winter tourism, however, tourism is not the main source of income. Liechtenstein is a popular business center with more companies registered than residents.

7) Marshall Islands

Located in the center of the Pacific Ocean, the dwarf nation of the Marshall Islands is mainly composed of coral islands. The total area of ​​the country is 181 square kilometers, the population is 62 thousand people. This state gained independence from the United States only in 1986, but until now, US assistance has helped the economy of the Marshall Islands “keep afloat”. The country has virtually no natural resources and imports more goods than it exports. IN last years The Marshall Islands suffers from high energy costs.

8) Seychelles

Seychelles covers an area of ​​455 square kilometers. It is the 8th largest dwarf country with a population of about 84 thousand people. The archipelago consists of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, and is located north of Madagascar. Seychelles has continuously developed thanks to the export of cinnamon, coconut and vanilla. Since the country gained independence in 1976, tourism has become its main source of income. The tourism industry currently employs about a third of the country's working population.

9) Maldives

Another one island country, The Republic of Maldives, or simply the Maldives, is located in Indian Ocean. In terms of area and population, the Maldives is the smallest Asian country. The total area is 298 square kilometers, and according to the 2010 census, 396,334 people live here. The state owns 1,192 islands, but only about 200 are inhabited. About a third of all Maldivians live in the country's capital, Male. Today, the main source of income for the residents of the Maldives is tourism; in the old days, the country developed thanks to the export of cowrie shellfish, dried tuna and coconut ropes.

10) Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis

This dwarf island state is located in the West Indies - on the islands Atlantic Ocean between North and South America. The state is located on 2 islands with a total area of ​​261 square kilometers. These islands were the first of the Caribbean islands to be settled by Europeans. The state gained independence from Great Britain in 1983. This country is not only the smallest in area in the area of ​​the 2 Americas, but also has the most small population among all the countries in this part of the world - approximately 50 thousand people. Today, the country's main source of income is tourism. Agriculture and offshore banking are also developed here.