The largest and smallest countries. The smallest countries in the world by area

Even the smallest countries in the world can occupy a significant place in global politics and economics

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 occupied by a country. 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. This is the residence of senior management 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.

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.

Nauru: 21.3 sq. km

Nauru © instagram.com/camropes/

The Republic of Nauru is located on coral island in the 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.

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 largely made up of the public sector, and to a small extent Agriculture and fishing.

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.

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.

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.

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 that provides the majority of treasury revenue is tourism. Agriculture is poorly developed, mainly sugar cane is grown.

Only independent states recognized by other states are included. Also included are associated states (a form of confederation of unequal states united on a bilateral basis, in which the smaller state, while formally maintaining sovereignty and independence, entrusts a significant part of its power to the larger state).

10th place: - a state in the eastern Caribbean, consisting of two islands - Saint Kitts and Nevis. The area of the country is 261 km². Population - 49,898 people. Saint Kitts and Nevis is the smallest country in Latin America in terms of area and population.

The southeastern peninsula of St. Kitts, with the island of Nevis in the background

9th place: Cook Islands- archipelago and self-governing municipality of the same name public education in free association with New Zealand in the South Pacific. Area - 236 km², population - 19,569 people.

8th place: - 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.

7th place: Liechtenstein- a state in Central Europe associated with Switzerland. Area - 160.4 km², population - 35,870 people.

6th place: - a state surrounded on all sides by Italy. Area - 61 km², population - 32,075 people.

5th place: - Pacific state, located on 5 atolls and 4 islands. The total area is 26 km². Population - 10,544 people. Tuvalu is one of the poorest countries in the world and this country 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

4th place: - a state on the coral island of the same name 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 most small state Oceania, the smallest state outside of Europe and the only republic in the world without an official capital.

3rd place: - principality associated with France. Monaco is located in southern Europe on the coast Mediterranean Sea. Area - 2.02 km², population - 35,986 people.

2nd place: located inside the territory of Rome. The Vatican is a state associated with Italy. The area of the Vatican is 0.44 km². Population - 836 people.

The smallest state in Europe and the whole world - Order of Malta(not to be confused with the state of Malta), the full name is "Sovereign Military Hospitable Order of St. John, Jerusalem, Rhodes and Malta." Like the Vatican, the Order of Malta is located within the territory of Rome. Since 1998, the Order has also owned Fort Sant'Angelo on the island of Malta. The area of the territories controlled by the Order of Malta is 0.012 km². The order consists of 12.5 thousand people who can be considered citizens of this state. Not everyone recognizes the Order of Malta as a state, but the order has diplomatic relations with 104 states and is a permanent observer at the UN. The Order of Malta issues its own passports and license plates, prints its own currency and stamps, i.e. has almost all the signs of a full-fledged state.

Palace of Malta in Rome - the actual capital of the Order of Malta

The smallest states by area by continent and part of the world

The smallest country in Asia is the Maldives (area - 298 km²).

The smallest country in Oceania is Nauru (area - 21 km²).

The smallest country in Europe is the Order of Malta (area - 0.012 km²).

The smallest country in Africa is Seychelles(area - 455 km²).

Smallest country North America- Saint Kitts and Nevis (area - 261 km²).

Smallest country South America- Suriname (area 163,270 km²).

The smallest countries in the world by population

Only independent (including associated) states recognized by other states are included.

10th place: (about this country, see above). Population - 49,898 people.

9th place: Liechtenstein(about this country, see above). Population - 35,870 people.

8th place: (about this country, see above). Population - 32,075 people.

7th place: Palau- an island state in the Pacific Ocean. Is in association with the USA. Consists of 328 islands, with total area 458 km². Population - 20,842 people.

6th place: Cook Islands(about this country, see above). Population - 19,569 people.

5th place: Order of Malta(see above for more details). The order consists of 12.5 thousand people.

4th place: (about this country, see above). Population - 10,544 people.

3rd place: (about this country, see above). Population - 9,322 people.

2nd place: Niue- an island and self-governing state entity of the same name in free association with New Zealand in the South Pacific Ocean. Area - 261.46 km², population - 1,398 people.

The smallest state in the world by population - (about this country, see above). Population - 836 people.

The smallest states by population by continent and part of the world

The smallest country in Asia is South Ossetia(population - 72,000 people) - partially recognized state: was recognized by Russia and four other UN member states (Nicaragua, Nauru, Venezuela and Tuvalu).

The smallest country in Oceania is Niue (population - 1,398 people)

The smallest country in Europe is Vatican City (population - 836 people)

The smallest country in Africa is the Seychelles (population - 87,476 people)

The smallest country in North America is Saint Kitts and Nevis (population - 49,898 people)

The smallest country in South America is Suriname (population - 472,000 people)

All of the above countries and dependent territories are recognized by the international community or at least by several states, but there is a state not recognized by any country, which is smaller in area than the Order of Malta and smaller in population than the Vatican.
The Principality of Sealand, located on an offshore platform in the North Sea 10 kilometers off the coast of Great Britain, has an area of only 0.00055 km² (550 m²). Regarding the population, in 2002 the Sealand authorities stated that the population of the state was 27 people. However, only a guard permanently lives on the territory of Sealand.

The physical territory of Sealand emerged during the Second World War. In 1942, the British Navy built several platforms on the approaches to the coast. One of them was Rafs Tower. During the war, the platforms housed anti-aircraft guns and were garrisoned by 200 people. After the end of hostilities, most of the towers were destroyed, but the Rafs Tower, being outside British territorial waters, remained untouched. In 1967, retired British Army Major Paddy Roy Bates announced the creation of the sovereign state of Sealand on the territory of the Rafs Tower platform and proclaimed himself Prince Roy I. In 1972, Sealand began minting coins. In 1975, Sealand's first constitution came into force. A flag and coat of arms appeared.
In 1997, it became clear that without the knowledge of the leadership of Sealand, passports of this state were being distributed illegally. In total, more than 150 thousand passports were sold, after which Sealand was forced to cancel the passports. In January 2007, the country's owners announced their intention to sell it. Immediately after this, the torrent site The Pirate Bay began collecting funds for the acquisition of Sealand in order to achieve independence from the authorities of other states, but the deal did not take place.
Sealand official website - sealandgov.org

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 the following famous countries, like Cyprus, Montenegro, Luxembourg, Iceland and many other territories. Despite the fact that their area is small, and people can be accommodated on 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. As before, as 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. Number 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 a fairly large number of tourists, as well as scientists, come here. Niue has 14 villages and is divided into two regions, Motu and Tafiti.

Falkland Islands

The archipelago is located in 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 the Falkland Islanders 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. 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 associated with volcanic activity in this area, and now South part Montserrat is closed to visitors. 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. Open this island was again 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 communications with this state tourist flow small enough.

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.

From school days everyone remembers perfectly what it looks like political map peace. This is a lot of states, some of which can be called real “giants”, while others are so small that their names are at the bottom, in the footnotes. And if big countries, such as Russia, USA, Canada, China, each of us can find without error on a globe or map, then we will have to work hard to find small ones. In this article we will talk about which of all is the smallest country in the world, and we will also make a kind of rating of small states by territory (area) and by population, so that you can confidently answer the question that interests many about the smallest of them.

About 250 countries are marked on the world map, officially recognized and independent. Among them there are real “giants” that occupy vast territories, as well as “tiny” ones in area. Below we will look at the smallest countries by area, compiling a kind of TOP 10 small lands, starting with the largest of them.

10th place - Grenada

The area of this island state is 344 sq. km, and the population is just under 90 thousand people. First discovered by the notorious Columbus, this country is famous for growing nutmegs, bananas and citrus fruits on its territory. A significant amount of government income, in addition to fruit exports, comes from the provision of offshore services.

9th place – Maldives

For many people, this place is associated with heaven on earth. The area of this “paradise” is only 298 sq. km, the population is about 390 thousand people. Consisting of more than 1,000 islands, this archipelago is located in the Indian Ocean and is recognized as one of the best resort areas in the world. The mild climate, unusual beaches, clear water - all this attracts tourists from all over the world, and on the territory there are best places for a beach holiday.

8th place – Saint Kitts and Nevis

The total area is 261 sq. km, the population is about 50 thousand people. The Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis is located in the Caribbean Sea on two islands bearing the country's name. In the Western Hemisphere, this federation is considered the smallest both in terms of territory (area) and population. The main income comes from tourism, since all other industries are not very developed.

By the way, to attract investment in the agricultural sector, a special program was developed that allows you to obtain citizenship by investing about 300 thousand dollars in the development of this area.

7th place - Marshall Islands

The area of the islands in the Pacific Ocean is 181 sq. km, the population is just over 52 thousand people. This republic is known for holding in the middle of the last century nuclear tests America, which significantly changed the flora and fauna of the islands. That is why now the plants characteristic of this zone are quite rare, although others have been planted instead. Tourism on the islands is just beginning to develop, but in the future this area may become one of the most beloved by tourists.

6th place – Liechtenstein

The Western European principality covers an area of 160 sq. km. with a population of 37 thousand people. Beautiful and picturesque, this country borders Austria and Switzerland, and official language- German. Despite its tiny size, the principality is a developed state with high level people's lives. The country is famous for its precision instrumentation and the flowing Rhine River.

If we look at it from a tourist point of view, then guests will be delighted beautiful landscapes both clean air and the trip will be remembered for a long time.

5th place – San Marino

Bordering exclusively with Italy, San Marino occupies 61 sq. km., population – 32 thousand people. This state is recognized as one of the oldest in Europe, the date of its formation is the 3rd century. Picturesque landscapes, ancient buildings and a developed service sector - all this will delight guests of San Marino.

4th place – Tuvalu

Tuvalu is located in the Pacific Ocean and occupies only 26 sq. km. with a population of about 11 thousand people. The climate in the country is tropical, with pronounced periods of rain and drought. This state belongs to poorest countries world due to its underdeveloped economy.

3rd place – Nauru

Nauru is located in the Pacific Ocean. Area – 21.3 sq. km., population – about 10 thousand people. The most amazing thing about this country is that it does not have a capital.

The climate can be described in two words: hot and humid. Flora and fauna are not very diverse.

2nd place – Monaco

It is difficult to imagine a person who has never heard of the country of casinos - Monaco. The area of the state is 2.02 sq. km, the population is about 30 thousand people. The main source of income for this country can be called tourism. The construction and sale of real estate is also developed, since becoming the happy owner of an apartment in this zone is either expensive or very expensive.

1st place - Vatican

The smallest state in the world is the Vatican. Its area is 0.44 sq. km, and its population is 836 people.

The Vatican is located inside eternal city Rome and submits to the Pope. His income comes from donations and tourism (entrance to museums, sale of souvenirs). The smallest state plays a big role in resolving military conflicts and is the center of Catholicism.

If you are interested in the smallest state in terms of territory, then now you know for sure that this country is the Vatican, one of the independent and recognized ones. Some also mention the Order of Malta, its territory covers 0.012 sq. km., but although this country is recognized as independent, for our rating of states it lacks its own monetary unit and citizen's passports. Therefore, the Vatican remains the smallest in terms of territory.

5 smallest countries (population)

It just so happens, but in the largest countries in terms of population - China and India - a third of the total population of our planet lives. Against the backdrop of these “giants” small countries seem even smaller. Below we will look at the smallest of them in terms of population and answer the question of which country is the smallest in terms of population.

5th place – Niue

In fifth place is the island and the state entity of the same name - Niue, with a population of 1,611 people. It is located in the Pacific Ocean, east of the island of Tonga.

4th place – Tokelau

Tokelau is part of New Zealand, but after referendums in 2006 and 2007, the state ceased to be associated with New Zealand. Population – 1383 people.

3rd place - Vatican

The Catholic center has a population of 836 people. The state located in Rome is governed by the Pope.

2nd place – Cocos Islands

The second smallest state in terms of population is the Cocos Islands or Keeling Islands, with a population of 550 people.

1st place Pitcairn Islands

The smallest country by population is the Pitcairn Islands, located in the Pacific Ocean. Number of people: 56 people.

Knowing the data from this article, you can say with confidence which state is the smallest both in terms of territory and population.

There are many dwarf states in the world. Most small countries are located in Europe or on islands. They are often located inside other 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. Island state is located in the Mediterranean Sea. The population is represented by Maltese, Arabs, British and Italians. Picturesque places attract tourists. The main component of Malta's economy is travel business. The country is famous for its cliffs, forts, cathedrals and temples.

9. Maldives

Area 298 km². The Maldives are located in Southern, equatorial waters Indian Ocean. The capital of the archipelago is the city of Male, located on the island of the same name. Most of the population are 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. The average 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 North 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. Most of 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 keeps pace with neighboring states. The cities of the principality are famous rich history, they have many attractions. The country abounds gothic castles, chapels, 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. Governor General 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 Pacific Ocean. There is no capital; the 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. Ethnic composition Diverse, the districts are home to French, Italians and Monegasques. 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 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. Pilgrims from all over the world come here all year round. Tourists should definitely visit the Sistine Chapel, the Chiaramonti Museum, the Vatican Pinacoteca, and the Gregorian Etruscan Museum.

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