No Schools Country: Whenever we think of a country, schools and colleges seem like basic necessities. But there's one country in the world that doesn't have a single school or college. This country is Vatican City. When you first hear about it, it might seem impossible. But when you understand how this country operates, the reasoning behind it is surprising.
A country without children
The main reason for the lack of schools in Vatican City is its unique population. The total population of this country is only 800 to 900 people, and this population consists mostly of Catholic priests, nuns, and members of the Swiss Guard. No children live permanently within Vatican City. Because there are no students living there, there is no need for schools or colleges within its borders.
Citizenship is not based on birth.
Unlike other countries, Vatican City does not grant citizenship by birth. Citizenship is granted only to those who work for the Holy See, including priests, officials, and Swiss guards. However, their citizenship automatically expires upon completion of their service. Because families do not settle here permanently, the concept of intergenerational education has never developed.
Children study outside the Vatican
In some cases, children of Swiss Guard members do not study within Vatican City. Instead, they travel daily to nearby Rome, Italy. Vatican City fully supports this arrangement. Although Vatican City does not have any primary or secondary schools, it plays a significant role in global higher education. The Vatican operates approximately 65 pontifical universities and institutes, primarily located in Rome.
These universities specialize in theology, philosophy, canon law, and religious studies. Vatican City is the world's smallest country, covering only 0.44 square kilometers. Most of its land is occupied by churches, museums, gardens, and administrative buildings. Despite its small size, it holds several world records. It has the shortest railway line, the only ATM that provides instructions in Latin, and is the only country to be entirely designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Source: Pixabay
