About one third of the population is concentrated there. They contain many attractions, and the features of culture, history and art are studied even at school. However, there are microstates that few people know anything about, although they have no less interesting life, natural and historical features. So, which countries are the smallest in terms of population, what are their characteristics?

About a hundred states do not have a population of even a million people. These include such well-known countries as Cyprus, Montenegro, Luxembourg, Iceland and many other territories. Despite the fact that their area is small and people can be accommodated in a large football stadium, not all of them are representatives of microstates. Here is a list of the smallest countries by population.

Pitcairn Island

This island state is part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain. Pitcairn is the only British territory that is located in the Pacific Ocean. It is the smallest country in terms of population, with only 49 people living here. There is even a capital on the island - Adamstown, but, however, this is just one locality Pitcairn.

Vatican

Many people think that the Vatican is the smallest country in terms of population, but this state is home to 842 people, and Pitcairn Island has almost 800 fewer people. The Vatican, or, as it is otherwise called, the city-state, is located on the territory of Rome. The country of the Vatican is the center of leadership of the Roman Catholic Church. Both before and now the territory of the state is considered a holy place, but in ancient times no one lived here. Basically, the entire population living in the Vatican are representatives of the clergy. It is noteworthy that citizenship here cannot be obtained by inheritance.

Tokelau

This territory is administered by New Zealand. The state consists of three islands in the Pacific Ocean, and people live on each of them. The population of Tokelau is 1,383 people. The inhabitants of the islands live from fishing. Also, some income comes from the production of souvenirs, stamps and coins. Some agricultural crops are also grown here and cattle are raised.

Niue

This state is located on an island in the Pacific Ocean, and the capital is the village of Alofi. The population of Niue is 1612 people. This island was discovered at the beginning of the 18th century by Europeans, at which time Niue was inhabited by savages, so it was called “the island of savages,” but was later renamed. The territory has a rich geological basis, so quite a lot of people come here a large number of tourists, as well as scientists. Niue has 14 villages and is divided into two regions, Motu and Tafiti.

Falkland Islands

The archipelago is located in the Atlantic Ocean and is an important point, one might say, a transit point from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific. Basically, all residents of the territory speak English language, and the population is 2912 people. The main activities of residents Falkland Islands are sheep farming, fishing and tourism.

Saint Helena

A more complete name looks like this: Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha. This area is of volcanic origin, and many scientists visit it, which has a positive effect on the country's economy. The total population is 3956 people.

Montserrat

Another British overseas territory with a population of 5,154. At the end of the 20th century, there were almost ten thousand more people in Montserrat. The decline in numbers is due to volcanic activity in the area, and the southern part of Montserrat is now closed to the public. The island was discovered in the 15th century by the great traveler and explorer Columbus, and in the 17th century it began to be populated.

Saint Pierre and Miquelon

The island community of France is located in the Atlantic Ocean. The population lives on two islands, but the larger one is Miquelon, and accordingly more people live there. The population is 6301 people. Fishing is mainly developed in the area.

Saint Barthelemy

Another overseas province of France, with a population of only 9,417 people. This island was again discovered by Columbus. This area is popular among tourists, and this is where the residents of this community live.

Tuvalu

The state of Tuvalu is located in the vast Pacific Ocean, in Polynesia. The island of Tuvalu was inhabited back in 300-500 by immigrants from the island of Samoa. The population is 9,943 people; the country's entire economy is mainly based on agriculture and fishing. Tourism could develop in Tuvalu, there are all the factors for this, but due to poor transport connections with this state, the tourist flow is quite small.

Nauru

The Republic of Nauru is an island state located in the Pacific Ocean; it gained independence in 1968. The country's population is 10,263 people. Agriculture, fishing and, to some extent, tourism are most developed here, but its expansion is hampered by the pollution of the territory, which, of course, scares off many travelers.

The smallest countries in the world in terms of population change frequently; in general, on average, the list is reformatted every 4 years. Only the position of the Vatican remains unchanged: it has always been included in the list of the smallest countries, both in terms of number of inhabitants and area. It is noteworthy that basically all the smallest countries in terms of population are located on islands or archipelagos. Their economy is mainly based on fishing and agriculture, but tourism is also developed in some.

Vatican City (0.44 km2)

As surprising as it may sound, the smallest state on Earth is the Vatican, located on the territory of modern Rome. Its area is only 0.44 km2, and the length of the border passing through Italian territory is 3.2 km. Population - 836 people, most of whom are subjects of the Holy See.

The Vatican is governed by the Holy See, whose sovereign is the Pope, who is elected by the cardinals for life. The judicial, executive and legislative powers are in his hands. However, the Pope appoints a governor to govern this dwarf state.

Despite its tiny size, the Vatican has its own economy, albeit mostly non-profit. The main source of income is donations from Catholics from all over the world. In addition, a considerable part of the profit comes from tourists, who sometimes leave quite large sums here, buying souvenirs, various gifts, Vatican euros (yes, they even have their own currency) and so on.

The country contains real masterpieces of architecture. St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Library, known throughout the world for its incredibly large collection of medieval and Renaissance manuscripts, immediately come to mind. In addition, it contains more than 1.5 million books, 150 thousand manuscripts, a huge number of coins and medals, about 100,000 geographical maps and engravings.

It also has its own railway line, only 700 meters long, which, however, connects to the Italian network railways. The station was built in 1932. But there is no airport of its own, which is not surprising - it simply would not fit here. But there is a helipad, opened in 1976 - it is used by the Vatican for communication with the Rome airports of Ciampino and Fiumicino.

Interestingly, the Vatican even has its own domain zone - .va. However, there are very few sites in it.

Monaco (2.02 km2)

Second place is occupied by one of the most famous states in the world - we are talking about the Principality of Monaco. It is located on the shores of the Ligurian Sea and borders France. Despite the small territory that this country occupies, the number of local residents is more than 36 thousand people. And this is not to mention the tourists, of whom there are incredibly many here.

The economy of Monaco is developed primarily on tourism, as well as the gambling business. Among the advantages that attract wealthy guests are low taxes and banking secrecy. Monaco has an extremely low unemployment rate, no external debt, and a large foreign exchange reserve.

Monaco is a country for the rich. It is here, on one street, that you can meet as many exclusive Bentleys and Ferraris as you will never see in your entire life in any other European city.

Gibraltar (6.5 km2)

Number three on our list is Gibraltar. It is an overseas territory belonging to Great Britain. Member of the European Union.

The most developed industries in the country are tourism, banking and finance. In addition, shipbuilding can also be noted. The total length of roads is about 46 km, and the port houses more than 70 sea vessels. Despite its small area, Gibraltar has its own runway and airport.

The total number of residents is about 29 thousand people, according to estimates for 2008.

Gibraltar is the only European country where semi-wild Magot monkeys can still be found.

Tokelau (10 km2)

Tokelau is a three-island dependent territory administered by New Zealand. Located between Hawaiian Islands and New Zealand.

Tokelau is home to about one and a half thousand people who survive mainly through fishing. At the same time, according to analysts, New Zealand helps the residents of the island, and in addition, relatives living in other countries send them money.

In addition to fishing, papaya, coconuts, bananas and some other fruits are grown here. Interestingly, a significant portion of the income comes from the .tk domain zone.

For a long time, all electricity here was generated using diesel power plants, but fuel costs were very high, so it was decided to switch to solar energy. The transition took place in 2012.

Cocos Islands (14 km2)

The next country on our list is Cocos Islands or Keeling. Keeling consists of 27 coral islands, which are located in the Indian Ocean near Australia. Locals- Malays, there are about 600 of them here.

Most of the total population lives on the West Island, the largest of the 27. This is where the airport is located. Residents are engaged in the cultivation of coconut trees, the production of copra and serve the same airport. Keeling has its own domain zone.cc, which, by the way, is also quite popular.

Republic of Nauru (21.3 km2)

Another dwarf state, which will be discussed further, is the Republic of Nauru. The country is located on the island of the same name, which can be found in the western part of the Pacific Ocean.

Currently, Nauru is the smallest independent republic on Earth. It does not have an official capital. The island itself has an oval shape, its length is 5.6 km and its width is 4 km. The number of people living is just over 9 thousand people, and several years ago this figure was much higher.

Since the island does not have its own rivers, there is a strong shortage of fresh water, which is available thanks to just one desalination plant. Moreover, it periodically stops working due to problems with electricity. That is why local residents collect rainwater in basins and use it.

The fauna, like the flora, in Nauru is very stingy and poor.

Tuvalu (26 km2)

Tuvalu is a Pacific country in Polynesia. It is located on 4 islands and 5 atolls, with a total land area of ​​26 square kilometers.

The total number of residents is 9,500 people. Most of them live in the province of Funafuti. In fact, Funafuti is the capital of this country. I wonder what official language is English. In addition, the Tuvalu language is used in everyday life.

Fishing plays the main role in the state’s economy - most of the population is engaged in it, especially since the income from fishing is very large and amounts to about 50% of all state income.

Macau (27.2 km2)

Macau is a socio-administrative region that was ruled by Portugal for several centuries. Essentially, it is a peninsula that was once a separate island, but was then connected to the mainland.

Macau is a country known primarily for its gambling houses, casinos and nightclubs. In short, various entertainments for the wealthy public. It is the gambling business that brings most of the income to the state's treasury.

It's no surprise that more than half a million people live here. However, they are engaged not only in gambling, but also in the tobacco industry and fishing.

Norfolk (34.6 km2)

Another small island located in the Pacific Ocean. It is located between New Zealand and Australia, but unofficially refers specifically to the latter. According to historical data, Norfolk was discovered by James Cook in 1774.

Population: 2300 people. The main profit comes from serving tourists, since tourism activities are very developed here.

Interestingly, local residents do not pay some taxes.

Pitcairn (47 km2)

The final tenth place is the Pitcairn Islands, which are located in the Pacific Ocean and border French Polynesia. Despite this, they are the only overseas territory of England located in the Pacific Ocean.

This state is known for the fact that only nine families live here, which consist of 67 residents. They are mainly engaged in farming, but young people prefer to go to New Zealand to earn money.

Do you think you know geography? What are the smallest countries in the world? Could you name them? Or could you point them out on the map? Or maybe you've never even heard of them? We think that not many people will be able to list even several of these countries at once. This is not surprising, since the UN currently recognizes more than 192 independent states. Therefore, we want to remind you of them and present a ranking of the smallest countries in the world.

Malta

The Republic of Malta consists of three large and several tiny islands, which are located in the center Mediterranean Sea, 93 km south of the coast of Sicily. The two small islands of Gozo and Comino are sparsely populated, but the main island, Malta, has modern and vibrant urban areas. Malta gained independence from Great Britain in 1964 and has since become a member of the European Union. The capital of Malta is Valleta, with a population of more than 452,000 people; the area of ​​this small country is only 316 km².

Republic of Maldives, better known as the Maldives or Maldives. It is located on the southwestern coast of India, in the waters of the Indian Ocean, and consists of many islands. The Republic of Maldives is the smallest Muslim country in Asia, with an area of ​​only 298 km² and a population of just over 324,000 people. The capital is the city of Male. The Maldives became a British protectorate in 1887. In 1965, Britain granted independence to the Maldives, and in 1968 it became a republic.

This is the smallest state in the Western Hemisphere, not only in terms of area, which is 261 km², but also in terms of population, only about 50 thousand people. The state consists of two islands - Saint Kitts and Nevis, located in the east Caribbean Sea. St. Kitts and Nevis is now heavily dependent on tourism, but boasts the largest electrical industry in the Caribbean. It gained independence and the name Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis in 1983. The capital is the city of Basseterre.

This Pacific nation consists of 29 atolls and 5 isolated islands in Micronesia. The area is only 181 km², the population is more than 60,000 people, the capital is Majuro. During its history, the Marshall Islands were part of the Spanish, German and Japanese empires. During World War II, the United States liberated the islands from Japan, but they did not gain independence and remained largely under US jurisdiction until 1986.

Liechtenstein is a small country in the center of Europe, located on the border between Switzerland and Austria, which completely surround it. It is one of the few countries that does not have an airport, but does have a small heliport. Nearest international Airport is located in Zurich, Switzerland. The country has a thriving tourism industry and winter sports. Known as a tax haven (due to its low taxes) for many large businesses from all over Europe. There are even more such enterprises than the inhabitants themselves in the country, and there are about 35,000 people, the country’s area is only 160.4 km², the capital is Vaduz.

San Marino

The Republic of San Marino is in fifth place in the ranking of the smallest countries in the world. It is a city-state located in Europe, on the border of Italy, which completely surrounds it. It is the oldest sovereign state in the world, as well as the oldest republic. Adopted in 1600, it is the oldest national constitution in the world. San Marino is also one of the least populated countries in Europe, with just over 31,000. Area of ​​only 61 km², the capital of San Marino.

Tuvalu

Tuvalu is an island nation in the Pacific Ocean, consisting of four islands and five atolls. It is the fourth smallest country in the world. Tuvalu has virtually no natural resources except for fish and agriculture. As a result, Tuvalu is largely dependent on foreign aid, which the country receives from Australia, New Zealand, Japan and the United States in particular. However, significant cash proceeds come from the sale of the national top-level domain (.tv). Tuvalu gained independence from Britain in 1978. The area is only 26 km², the population is about 10 thousand people, the capital is Funafuti.

Nauru

The Republic of Nauru (formerly Pleasant Island) is a tiny island nation in the South Pacific Ocean, close to the island nation of Kiribati. It is the smallest independent republic in the world, the smallest island state, the smallest state outside Europe, and the only republic in the world that does not have an official capital. In 1999, the Republic was admitted to the UN. The area is only 21.3 km², the population is about 9,300 people.

Second place in the list of the smallest countries in the world is occupied by the Principality of Monaco, located in the south of Europe, on the shores of the Ligurian Sea, bordering France. The Grimaldi family has ruled Monaco since 1297. It is one of the most densely populated countries in the world with 17,814.85 people/km². Known all over the world, primarily for the casino in Monte Carlo and the Formula 1 championship “Grand Prix of Monaco”. The country's area is only 2.02 km², the population is about 36,000 people, the capital is Monaco.

The smallest country in the world is the Vatican. It is a religious complex surrounded by an enclave wall. It is a sovereign independent state with the Pope as monarch. The Vatican is located in the center of Rome, next to St. Peter's Square. The Pope also holds the title of Bishop of Rome and resides in the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican. The state attracts tens of thousands of tourists every year. The Vatican has its own police force known as the Corpo. It also has its own military personnel and the Swiss Guard, although their official purpose is to protect the Pope and the Holy See (of the Roman Catholic Church), and not the Vatican State itself. Area only 0.44 km², population about 840 people, capital Vatican.

There are countries in this world that can boast large population, but how hard it is to believe that there are also some countries that are quite small. Most people prefer to live in such places because it is cozy and relaxing. They don't have to worry about hundreds of people running around, and in small countries, crime rates are lower because a criminal can't hide in a large crowd. Listed below are the ten smallest countries in the world.

10. Grenada

Famous for the spices that this island has. If you're wondering where nutmeg came from, this is where it comes from. The country is not the smallest, but there is quite a small amount of space. It's so beautiful here and it's a great place to come if you know how to get there or take a boat and then they'll pick you up when you're done. The most popular sport here is cricket. This main view sports on the island. The area of ​​the island is only three hundred and forty-four square meters. km.

9. Malta

This is one of the countries that ended up on this list due to its size. It is located in the Mediterranean Sea. The country occupies three small islands. In total, four hundred and fifty thousand people live on three islands. If you look into history, you will see that Malta is at least 7,000 years old. There are amazing beaches to behold, as well as plenty of sunny days and comfortable environment. It's nice to come to these tiny islands and get to know them.

8. Maldives

This place is small, but filled with housing and people. There is water all around and you can go to the beach at any time if you live near one of them and not in the center of the island. If you are in the center, then it will take several hours to leave the island. The Maldives is an independent country, it became such in 1965, and nothing has changed since then.

This amazing place interesting to visit or live here. You'll love the water around you and the amenities throughout the country that make it so amazing. The trees growing here are simply beautiful and allow you to hide in their shade. The country is made up of two islands, but whichever one you go to will be beautiful and relaxing. Sit in a chair and catch some rays, you can do that most of the time you're here.

6. Liechtenstein

If you look at the local hills, you will see houses that look like castles. If you are lucky enough to live in one of them, you will be able to look down on the cities and feel like a queen or king. Just live your life the way you want, spend more time with your family, and not spend all your time working. The country is located in Switzerland. They have the lowest unemployment rate, so you have to find a job and keep it, because they know that people need jobs, not lack of pay.

5. San Marino

All the houses here are similar. Even though the country is small, you will be able to find a job quickly as there are always many jobs available. The country is home to about thirty thousand people, a number that can sometimes rise or fall rapidly. There are beautiful green meadows and trees, among which it will be pleasant to walk or hike almost every day. It is one of the most prosperous places to live due to its low unemployment rate.

4. Tuvalu

About ten thousand people live here. There is only one hospital in Tuvalu, so if you need medical help, you know where to look. About two thousand people visit the country every year. This is according to 2010 data. Most of them come on business, others just to see the country. Most people come on business, so they stay here for a short time. Tuvalu looks like a bunch of trees, so no one knows anything about the island.

3. Nauru

This country is located east coast Australia and in the 80s. it was one of the most popular places for phosphate mining. Now it is a quiet place that tourists do not even think about visiting. The unemployment rate here is ninety percent, and only 10 percent of the people work for the government. It also has the highest number of overweight people, with almost equal numbers of men and women. Most people suffer from type 2 diabetes due to the problem of obesity.

2. Monaco

This country has the most rich people in the world. She is also very popular with celebrities. France neighbors Monaco, and on all other sides the principality is surrounded by the waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The majority of local residents speak French as their native language, and the population is more than thirty-six thousand people, so this country ranks second on the list of smallest countries.

1. Vatican

This country is the smallest that has ever existed and is also called the Holy See. The Vatican is located right in the center of the city of Rome. This country is home to the largest church in the world - St. Peter's Basilica. Here you will find the best works of art, such as the Pieta icon. To survive, the country receives financial assistance from members of the Catholic Church. There are a total of one billion members, which is enough for financial support. The rest of the economic injection comes from money coming from the sale of postage stamps, money paid by museum visitors, and money tourists spend on small trinkets and souvenirs.

These are the Top 10 smallest countries in the world 2017. Each of them would be a great place to go on holiday where you want to relax and get some peace and carefree doing nothing alone or with your partner. If you plan to live in one of these countries, then that's great. The locals are friendly and the sights are great.

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.

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.

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 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 kilometers. 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.