Holy See

The Holy See is the heart and soul of the Catholic Church, a tiny city-state that is home to the Pope, a bunch of bishops, and a never-ending supply of wine. Also known as Vatican City, this tiny nation is only 44 hectares in size, making it roughly the same size as a modestly-sized Starbucks.

The name “Holy See” comes from the Latin “Sancta Sedes,” which means “sacred seat.” This is a reference to the fact that the Pope is believed to be the direct successor of Saint Peter, the first pope, and that his authority comes directly from God. Some have speculated that the name might also refer to the fact that the Pope’s chair is one of the most comfortable seats in the world, but this has yet to be confirmed.

Despite its small size, the Holy See is an international powerhouse. It has diplomatic relations with more than 180 countries and is a permanent observer at the United Nations. This means that the Pope is basically like a little superhero who can go around the world preaching the gospel and saving souls without having to worry about things like visas or customs inspections.

The Holy See is also home to some of the world’s most beautiful and historic landmarks, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums. These attractions draw visitors from all over the world, who come to marvel at the art, architecture, and history on display. And, of course, to take lots and lots of selfies.

While the Holy See might seem like a fun and magical place, it’s important to remember that it’s also a serious and important institution that plays a vital role in the lives of Catholics around the world. So whether you’re a devout believer or just a curious tourist, take a moment to appreciate the Holy See for all that it is - a small, but mighty, city-state with a big heart and a lot of wine.