Vatican City, the world's smallest country, is known for its iconic landmarks such as St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Pope’s residence. Housing around 800 citizens, the country is renowned for its cultural and religious treasures,

With Pope Francis entering his fourth week in hospital, those working in the Apostolic Palace are grappling with the continuing uncertainty over the pope’s health. The same is true for everyone in the Vatican.

Pope Francis was reported to be in good spirits Tuesday after the Vatican declared he was out of danger and could even be discharged in the near future after almost one month in hospital with pneumonia.

Vatican City, the world's smallest country, hasn't seen a birth in 96 years due to its unique population of celibate clergy and absence of a hospital.

For more than two weeks, eyes have been on the Vatican, awaiting news about Pope Francis' health. The pope has been at Rome's Gemelli Hospital since Feb. 14, 2025, being treated for double pneumonia and other complications.

Pope Francis's condition is improving and doctors no longer fear for his life, the Vatican said Monday, indicating the

VATICAN CITY - Pope Francis is showing a "good response" to his hospital treatment for double pneumonia and his overall condition is gradually improving, the Vatican said on Saturday. Francis, 88, has been in Rome's Gemelli hospital for more than three weeks with a severe respiratory infection that has required continuously evolving treatment.

The Vatican stated that physicians have lifted their previous "guarded" prognosis regarding Pope Francis' condition.

Cardinal Baldassare Reina led the daily vigil Thursday in St. Peter’s Square to pray for Pope Francis. The pope continued to improve from double pneumonia, the Vatican said, though doctors said he needs more days of “clinical stability” before they revise their guarded prognosis.

The Holy See Press Office said that Pope Francis had a "restful" night, with his condition showing mild improvement.

Raffaella Petrini has been appointed as the first female President of the Vatican City State becoming the governor of the 44-hectare area.