_#_Type: monarchical-sacerdotal state
_#_Capital: Vatican City
_#_Independence: 11 February 1929 (from Italy)
_#_Constitution: Apostolic Constitution of 1967 (effective 1 March 1968)
_#_National holiday: Installation Day of the Pope (John Paul II), 22 October (1978); note—Pope John Paul II was elected on 16 October 1978
_#_Executive branch: pope
_#_Legislative branch: unicameral Pontifical Commission
_#_Judicial branch: none; normally handled by Italy
_#_Leaders:
Chief of State—Pope JOHN PAUL II (Karol WOJTYLA; since 16
October 1978);