ocr: The Vatican is located in Rome because tradition held that St Peter was buried on the site of the Church of Constantine, which was pulled down in the Renaissance to - make way for the building of St Peter's Basilica. The Vatican has been the Pope's usual residence since 1417,when the pontitts returned from Avignon in France at the end of the 39 years of Great Schism. . 1870 Italy occupies Papal States - 16,00U sq.miles in central Italy. 1929 Lateran Treaty - Italy recognizes Vatican City as independent state. 1978 Cardinal Karol Wojtyla Pope. 1981-1982 Attempts on Pope's life. 1983 New Church ...
