On the right bank of the Tiber extending over the lower slopes of Monte Mario and the Janiculum, the Vatican City covers roughly the same area as Caligula's Circus and the Gardens of Nero where countless early Christians were martyred. It is the world centre of the Roman Catholic Church and hosts St. Peter's (Christianity's most important place of worship). This, combined with the fact that it possesses works of art of extraordinary value, makes it a prime tourist attraction for Catholics and nonCatholics alike throughout the year. Politically, the Vatican City is a completely independent state within the Italian Republic. The "Lateran Treaty" signed in 1929 officially sanctioned this independence. The Vatican State has its own stamps and currency, which are valid throughout Italy. 

It also has a radio station, newspaper and diplomatic representation in all the more important countries of the world. Although it has no army, the "Swiss Guards" (the Papal Guards) patrol the gates of the tiny State day and night. The legislative, executive and iudiciary functions of govemment are exercised by the relative competent bodies, under the direct control of the Pope. The Pope alsomanages the State's international affairs through the Cardinal Secretary of State.

St. Peter's Square is reached by way of Via della Conciliazione (1937). On the right side of the Via rises the elegant Palazzo Torlonia, by Andrea Bregno (1496).