Rome is the capital of Italy and its largest city. It is located on the Tiber and Aniene rivers, near the Mediterranean Sea. The Vatican City (a sovereign enclave), the seat of the Roman Catholic Church, and the home of the Pope is also found in Rome. Within the city limits, the population is 2,823,807 (2004) and almost 4 million live in the general area of Rome. The city's history extends nearly 2,800 years, during which time it has been the seat of ancient Rome (the Roman Kingdom, Roman Republic, Roman Empire), and later the Papal States, Kingdom of Italy and Italian Republic. Rome is so filled with Christian art and architecture, wonderful sights, cultural exhibits and so much more that the city will astound you. It is fascinating no matter where you look.