In a unique geographical setting… Monaco offers it’s traditional elegance, Monte-Carlo it’s modern luxury and the old atmosphere of the Belle Epoque. There is an exiting cultural and artistic life enriched by spectacular galas and festivals. The many tourist attractions and numerous museums provide a large choice of sightseeing.
Location : An independent state, the Principality of Monaco is at the foot of the Southern Alps on the Mediterranean coast, a short distance from the French-Italian border.
Population : 36 371 inhabitants.
Surface area : 202 hectares. Gardens and green areas cover 39 ha (0.21 sqm), 24 ha (0.13 sqm) of which are for public use.
Language : The official language is French, but English and Italian are widely spoken. The traditional language, Monegasque, is a dialect spoken by the older generations and taught in the Principality’s schools.
History : Monaco is ruled by the Grimaldi Family sino is the most famous and evocative symbol of Monaco’s 19th century elegance. Monaco’s prince, Rainier III, was born in 1923 and, as a young man, distinguished himself as a volunteer in the French Army during World War II. Acceding to the throne in 1949, he became world-famous when he married Grace Kelly in 1956. Princess Caroline was born in 1957, Prince Albert in 1958 and Princess Stephanie in 1965. Under Prince Rainier’s rule, Monaco has become a world leader in protecting the earth’s environment as well as a center for business, industry, art and tourism.On 31 March 2005, Prince Rainier III, too ill to exercise his duties, relinquished them to his only son and heir, Prince Albert Alexandre Louis. Prince Rainier died on 6 April 2005, after a reign of 56 years, and his son succeeded him as Albert II, Sovereign Prince of Monaco.
Monaco is a country of beautiful, elegant people, of brilliant white buildings, of lush green foliage and majestic palms; a cosmopolitan gathering place for the famous and the wealthy. There is something for everyone; the changing of the guard at the Prince’s Palace on top of the Rock of Monaco, the Oceanographic Museum, the Exotic Garden. There are also two modern conference centers, a concert hall (Monaco has its own concert orchestra and Opera), and a theater. And, of course, the casinos and the luxurious hotels which form the hub of the glittering life for which Monte-Carlo has become world-famous. A short distance from the Nice-Cote d’Azur International Airport is the Principality of Monaco, nestled at the foot of the Southern Alps, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Monaco, one of the tiniest countries in the world, is full of aristocratic charm and dignity with a history spanning more than 700 years. It is the gathering place for the world’s famous and wealthy. Covering less than a square mile of territory, Monaco offers a fascinating array of contrasts: traditional ceremonies on the Medieval Rock, sun-splashed colors, the Provincial fragrances in the open-air marketplace, and a symphony of cultural experiences. This jewel of the Cote d’Azur is home of the most famous casino in the world, the Monte Carlo Casino. Completely restored to its former splendor, the Casino also houses the elegant Opera House hosting opera and ballet performances. Of equal stature in the Principality is the Monte Carlo Sporting Club. Comprised of world-class restaurants and exclusive night-clubs, the complex’s “claim to fame” is the Salle Des Etoiles (Salon of the Stars). One may delight in the finest of French and regional cuisine here while enjoying a prestigious revue or concert. Its roof slides open revealing a starry sky often illuminated by fireworks. But Monte Carlo is more than its casino and showplace. It’s basking in a sunny, invigorating climate. Represented in its turreted palace and cathedral, churches and ramparts, the milestones of Monaco’s history are everywhere. For nature lovers there’s the Jacques Cousteau Aquarium, the National History Museum and the Botanical Gardens with tropical plants and mysterious grottoes. Monte Carlo’s name is forever associated with automobile racing. Motor sport fans flock to the Principality for the world-famous Car Rallye and Formula One Grand Prix. Monaco is a sportsman’s paradise. From water sports and beach games to deep-sea explorations, choose action or relaxation. For golf enthusiasts, an 18-hole course rolls up the slopes above Monaco. In the incomparable setting of the Monte Carlo Country Club, there are 22 tennis and squash courts. Monte Carlo is a never-ending pageant of fun and fireworks, bursting beneath the sun and stars of the fabled Riviera.
Suggested daily programme of Monte-Carlo: