Pope Francis

The Apostolic Nunciature in the United States of America is the diplomatic mission of the Holy See to the USA.

The Holy See has the longest tradition of diplomatic initiatives of any sovereign entity in the world today. Since the time of Constantine in the fourth century, the Pope, as the Bishop of Rome, exercises unique spiritual and temporal authority and has sent and received delegates to and from other leaders in attempts to clarify Church teaching and stabilize international peace and other issues.

As a “Vicar” of Christ, he appoints a Nuncio (Ambassador of the Holy See).

The office where the Apostolic Nuncio exercises his diplomatic mission called Apostolic Nunciature especially when a story concerns Vatican dealings with the church in a country, rather than diplomatic dealings with the country itself (Embassy of the Holy See). It was established As Apostolic Delegation on January 24, 1893 and established as Apostolic Nunciature on January 10, 1984.

What is the Holy See? 
The Holy See is the office of the successor of Saint Peter, the pope, comprehending all the dicasteries through which he exercises his pastoral government of the Catholic Church. The Holy See is recognized as an International Juridical person. Vatican City, a state created to ensure and guarantee the absolute freedom, independence, and sovereignty of the Holy See, also possesses full sovereignty within the international community.
Vatican City is located within Rome. To enter the Vatican, no passport or visa is required, nor are any custom tariffs imposed. Obviously, since Vatican City is in Rome, travel requirements of the Italian Government must be respected to enter Italy/Rome initially. To determine these, you should consult the Italian Embassy in Washington (3000 Whitehaven Street, NW, Washington, DC 20008, phone 202-612-4400), or an Italian consulate in your area. There are no facilities in Vatican City to accommodate pilgrims. However, there are abundant hotels and pensions nearby which should be known to any travel agent experienced in arranging religious pilgrimages.