The Apostle Peter was the first pope. The current pope is his successor, and he therefore ‘sits’ on the ‘chair’ of St. Peter (figuratively speaking). In practice, however, the Holy See is not a seat, but the central government of the Church.
The Holy See maintains relationships with dioceses and with the Church throughout the world. Vatican City is a miniature state that is represented diplomatically by the Holy See in many states. Because of its unique diplomatic position, the Church can often play a positive role, for instance in peace talks.
