The Vatican has three main sources of income: the Instituto per le Opere di Religione (IOR, Institute of Religious Works), voluntary contributions known as ‘Peter’s Pence’ and the interest on the Vatican’s investments. The IOR (the Vatican Bank) has attracted some controversy in recent years through the emergence of huge debts and allegations of corruption. Nonetheless, as the heart of a worldwide entity with millions of adherents, the Vatican continues to wield immense financial influence. The Vatican produces little other than religious artefacts, and its material requirements are largely met from Italian sources.

Prefecture of the Economic Affairs of the Holy See
Palazzo delle Congregazioni, Largo del Colonnato 3, 00120 Rome, Italy
Tel: (06) 6988 4263.

Instituto per le Opere di Religione (IOR)
00120 Città del Vaticano, Rome, Italy
Tel: (06) 6988 3354.