Global delegates at the Vatican

Delegates from around the world gathered in Vatican City on Tuesday to mark the installation Mass for Pope Francis.

Read on to see some of the most influential leaders in attendance.

Chancellor Angela Merkel - Germany

Germany is the most powerful economy in Europe and home country to former Pope Benedict XVI. The country is largely Catholic.

Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault - France

Catholicism is the primary religion in France, and at one time was the state religion. For a short period of time in the 14th century, the pope lived in what is now France.

Grand Duke Henri - Luxembourg

Grand Duke Henri (right) pictured with Grand Duchess Maria Teresa of Luxembourg was one of half a dozen royal heads of state to attend.

Vice President Joe Biden - United States

Biden is the first Catholic vice president of the United States.

President Robert Mugabe - Zimbabwe

Banned from travel in the European Union because of accusations of human rights abuses, Mugabe took advantage of a loophole that allows visitors to the Vatican to travel through Italian territory to reach Vatican City, which at 0.2 miles is the world's smallest sovereign state.
The Vatican did not officially invite any delegations, and said all were welcome to attend.

President Ma Ying-jeou - Taiwan

While Taiwan, The Republic of China, has had good relations with the Vatican, its large neighbor, China has had a contentious relationship. The People's Republic of China did not send a delegation.

Prince Richard, the Duke of Gloucester - Great Britain

First cousin to Queen Elizabeth II, the Duke (far left) has represented the crown at other Vatican events. Since the Queen leads the Anglican Church, England avoided sending any head or future head of the Anglican Church, by sending the Duke.
Pope Francis once called the British "usurpers" of the Falkland Islands.

President Cristina Fernandez - Argentina

The President of his native country has clashed with Pope Francis over a number of issues including gay marriage. At her first meeting with the new Pope, President Fernandez asked for his help to get the Falkland Islands back from Great Britain.