Catholicism is one of the largest branches of Christianity, with over 1.3 billion adherents worldwide. While it is spread across every continent, some countries stand out not only in the total number of Catholics but in the percentage of their population that follows the faith.
Below are some of the countries with the highest proportion of Catholics, where Catholicism plays a dominant role in culture, politics, and everyday life.
Vatican City
Obviously, the highest percentage of Catholics in the world is found in Vatican City. This independent city-state, entirely surrounded by Rome, Italy, is the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church.
It is home to the Pope, the leader of the global Catholic community, and functions as the heart of Catholicism.
With a population made up almost entirely of members of the clergy and religious staff, Vatican City has a 100% Catholic population. Though small in number, its influence over Catholic communities worldwide is immense.
Timor-Leste (East Timor)
Timor-Leste or East Timor, a small island nation in Southeast Asia, is one of the most Catholic countries in the world. Over 97% of its population adheres to the Roman Catholic faith.
Catholicism was introduced during Portuguese colonization in the 16th century and became deeply rooted, particularly during the years of Indonesian brutal occupation (1975–1999), when the Church became a symbol of resistance and cultural identity.
Today, Catholicism plays a central role in national celebrations, education, and politics, making it not just a religion but a cornerstone of East Timorese identity.
San Marino
San Marino, one of the world's oldest republics and a microstate surrounded by Italy, has a Catholic population of about 97%. The country's historical and cultural ties to Italy and the Vatican have helped maintain Catholicism as the dominant faith.
Most of the country's traditions, holidays, and public events are shaped by Catholic influence. While the country has freedom of religion, Catholicism remains closely intertwined with its national character.
Paraguay
In South America, Paraguay stands out as one of the most Catholic countries by percentage, with around 90–95% of its population identifying as Catholic. The Catholic Church has long held a powerful role in Paraguayan society, especially since the colonial period.
The influence of Catholic missions, particularly the Jesuit missions in the 17th and 18th centuries, has left a lasting legacy in Paraguayan culture.
Today, religious festivals, Catholic schools, and Church-affiliated organizations continue to shape daily life and governance in Paraguay.
Malta
Malta, a small island nation in the Mediterranean, has one of the highest proportions of Catholics in Europe, with about 93% of the population identifying as Roman Catholic.
Catholicism was introduced in Malta as early as the 1st century AD, according to tradition, by Saint Paul himself.
Since then, the Church has been a central institution in Maltese society. Religion remains deeply embedded in local customs, politics, and education.
Churches are prominent in every town and village, and religious festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout the year.
Poland
Poland is one of the most Catholic countries in Europe, with approximately 87–90% of the population adhering to the Roman Catholic Church. Catholicism in Poland is closely linked to national identity, particularly during periods of foreign occupation and communist rule.
The Church played a significant role in resisting Soviet influence and supporting the Solidarity movement in the 1980s.
Pope John Paul II, one of Poland's most revered figures, also strengthened Catholic identity in the country. Today, Catholic values continue to influence Poland’s social policies and cultural norms.
Croatia
Croatia is another European country with a strong Catholic majority, with about 86% of the population identifying as Catholic. The faith is deeply connected to Croatian history and national identity, especially during the country's struggles for independence in the 1990s.
Catholic churches and cathedrals are prominent throughout the country, and major holidays such as Christmas and Easter are widely celebrated. While younger generations may be less observant, Catholicism remains a dominant cultural force in Croatian life.
The Philippines
The Philippines is the most Catholic country in Asia and ranks high globally, with around 80–85% of its population following the Roman Catholic faith. Introduced by Spanish colonizers in the 16th century, Catholicism became deeply woven into Filipino culture.
The Church plays a key role in education, healthcare, and political advocacy. Religious festivals like Sinulog, Pahiyas, and Simbang Gabi before Christmas reflect the strong connection between Catholicism and Filipino identity.
While other Christian denominations and religions are also growing in the country, Catholicism remains firmly dominant.
