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. In terms of area it is small state much larger 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 list World Heritage UNESCO.

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. It's small Island state also refers to 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.

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

Island country Republic of Maldives located in Indian Ocean and by area it is the smallest Asian country. 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 there are 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, residence of the Pope - 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 islands 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 does not have 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 European Council member states. 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.

© instagram.com/earthconic/

We provide you with a ranking of the 10 smallest countries in the world. The main criterion for the distribution of places in the ranking is the area of ​​territory that a country occupies. Small countries are just as beautiful and significant as big ones. And this is what these countries are:

Vatican: 0.44 sq. km

Vatican © instagram.com/gabbuino/

The Vatican is the smallest country in the world. This city-state is located inside Rome. It 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.

1. Monaco: 2.02 sq. km

Monaco © instagram.com/gulshatmonaco/

Principality of Monaco. Surely, many have heard about this state thanks to the city of Monte Carlo and its famous casinos. Monaco is located next to France. This country is also known for the Formula 1 championship held here - the Monaco Grand Prix. Tourism is one of the main sources of government income, along with the construction and sale of real estate.

1. Nauru: 21.3 sq. km

Nauru © instagram.com/camropes/

The Republic of Nauru is located on a coral island in Pacific Ocean. This country does not have a capital, which makes it unique. One of the main problems of this country is the shortage fresh water. Flora and fauna are very scarce. The main source of replenishment of the treasury for a long time was the mining of phosphorites, but since the 90s the level of production began to decline, and with it the well-being of the population. Tourism is not developed here due to the severe pollution of the country.

1. Tuvalu: 26 sq. km

Tuvalu © instagram.com/missfree365/

The state of Tuvalu is located on a cluster of atolls and islands and is located in the Pacific Ocean. Destructive cyclones often 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. 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.

1. San Marino: 61 sq. km

San Marino © instagram.com/__giulyb/

The Republic of San Marino is located in the southern part of Europe and borders Italy on all sides. San Marino is not only one of the smallest countries in the world, but also the oldest European state, formed in the 3rd century. This country is located in a mountainous area. The basis of the economy is manufacturing, which accounts for 34% of GDP; the service sector and tourism also play an important role.

1. Liechtenstein: 160 sq. km

Liechtenstein © instagram.com/chocochilli_pl/

The Principality of Liechtenstein is located in Western Europe, bordering Switzerland and Austria. Although this state occupies a small area, it is very beautiful: mountainous landscapes, and also in the western part the most big river Europe - Rhine. 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. Liechtenstein is an example of how even one of the smallest countries in the world can occupy a significant place in world politics and economics.

1. Marshall Islands: 181 sq. km

Marshall Islands © instagram.com/earthconic/

The Republic of the Marshall Islands is located in the Pacific Ocean. 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. Due to undeveloped infrastructure and high prices for transport (flight to the islands), tourism is at the initial stage of development.

1. Saint Kitts and Nevis: 261 sq. km

Saint Kitts and Nevis © instagram.com/elizehrd/

Saint Kitts and Nevis is a federation located in the east Caribbean Sea. In terms of territory and population, this state is the smallest country in the Western Hemisphere. The main industry producing most revenues to the treasury - tourism. Agriculture is poorly developed, mainly sugar cane is grown.

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

The Republic of Maldives is 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 (flights to the islands), tourism is at an early 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- Raine. 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. The ancient buildings and Monte Titano itself are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 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. The flora and fauna 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 194 countries in the world, and when I think about each of them, we, as a rule, represent a large territory and a population of many millions. But some states are several times smaller in area than modern megacities. We've collected ten of the tiniest ones.

No. 10 Grenada: 344 km²

It is an island nation in the Caribbean Sea, located northwest of Trinidad and Tobago. Grenada is the world's largest producer of nutmeg, so it is not surprising that it is also called the “Spice Island”. From 1649 to 1763 it was French colony. The strong influence of French tradition and culture in the country is still felt today - from architecture and art to cricket, which is the most popular view sports on the island.

No. 9 Malta: 316 km²

Malta is another tiny island state. It is located in the Mediterranean Sea. The three main islands of the Republic are Gozo (Gozo), Comino and the largest of them, Malta. The country has a population of approximately 450,000 inhabitants, making it one of the most populous countries in the world. Most tourists come to Malta for beach holiday, intriguing history and vibrant nightlife.

No. 8 Maldives: 300 km²

The smallest country in Asia in terms of area and population, the Maldives is nevertheless one of the most... popular places holiday in the Indian Ocean. Snow-white sandy beaches and crystal blue water provided the country with a reputation heavenly place. Some 1,192 coral islands are scattered over an area of ​​90,000 km², making the Republic one of the most dispersed countries in the world. Although this has its own plus: there is always room for just the two of you.

Formerly part of the West Indies, these two islands in the Caribbean were among the first lands settled by Europeans and were major exporters of sugar for many centuries. Today, only colonial estates converted into hotels remind of the former plantations. The country's modern economy is built around tourism, agriculture and small manufacturing enterprises. St. Kitts and Nevis is home to fantastic dive sites and rich marine life.

No. 6 Liechtenstein: 160 km²

Liechtenstein is the only country in the world that lies entirely in the Alps. It is located between Switzerland and Austria. It is one of the richest countries with an incredibly low unemployment rate (1.5%). True, getting to Liechtenstein is a little problematic, because there is not a single airport here. The closest one is in Zurich.

No. 5 San Marino: 61 km²

San Marino is an enclave: its territory is completely surrounded by Italian lands. The country claims to be the oldest sovereign state in the world. San Marino ranks third on the list of smallest countries in Europe and has a population of only 30,000 people, but boasts one of the highest GDP per capita and low unemployment rates.

No. 4 Tuvalu: 26 km²

Formerly known as Ellis, the state of Tuvalu is located in the Pacific Ocean, northeast of Australia. Its population is about 10,000 inhabitants, and the total length of roads is only 8 km. It was once a British territory but became independent in 1978. Due to the fact that getting here is quite problematic, tourism in Tuvalu is underdeveloped, although the landscapes here are truly heavenly.

No. 3 Nauru: 21 km²

Nauru is the smallest island nation in the world. It is located east of Australia. The country's economy suffered significantly when local phosphate mines were depleted. Unemployment reached 90%. The Republic is also known as home to the world's most obese people: 97% of men and 93% of women are obese or overweight.

No. 2 Monaco: 2 km²

Monaco is the epitome of luxury and wealth: it has the largest concentration of millionaires and billionaires in the world. Thanks to luxurious casinos and a wide range of exclusive services, the country has become favorite place rest for the powers that be. One of the most popular and spectacular events of the year is the Formula 1 Grand Prix, during which cars drive along ordinary city streets. With a population of over 36,000 inhabitants, Monaco is the most populous country in the world.

No. 1 Vatican: 0.44 km²

The smallest country in the world is the Vatican. It is located in the Italian capital and is the center of the Catholic Church. It is not surprising that this is where the largest Christian church in the world - St. Peter's Cathedral. In addition, in the Vatican you can see valuable works of art from the Renaissance. The main source of income in the country is voluntary contributions from Catholics from all over the world (more than 1 billion people). The rest of the profits come from the sale of postage stamps, tourist souvenirs and museum admission tickets.