Introduction to Holy See

Book excerpt: The Holy See, also known as the Vatican City, is a sovereign state located in the heart of Rome, Italy. It is the spiritual and administrative center of the Catholic Church, with the Bishop of Rome, commonly known as the Pope, serving as the head of the church. The Vatican City spreads over an area of 44 hectares and has a population of around 800 residents, mostly consisting of Catholic clergy and Italian officials. The Holy See is governed by the pope, who is both the head of state and the head of government. The pope exercises his authority through various offices, including the Secretariat of State, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, and the Pontifical Council for Culture. The Vatican City is also the site of many historical and cultural treasures, such as the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, and the Vatican Museums. It is a significant religious and cultural center, attracting millions of visitors and pilgrims every year.