According to the form of government, Monaco is a constitutional monarchy, with some secondary signs of dualism. The head of state is the prince.
The country's government is regulated by the constitution, which came into force on December 17, 1962. The Constitution, in particular
Although it proclaims the principle of separation of powers, the power of the prince is absolute (cannot be limited by anything or anyone). In 2002, the constitution of the principality was revised. Officially, the powers of the legislative body (National Council) were somewhat expanded.
The executive power is represented by the Minister of State (head of government) and the State Council (government) of four people headed by him. The Minister of State is a French citizen who is confirmed by the Prince for a period of 3 years on the proposal of the French government.
Legislature
divided between the prince and the unicameral National Council (parliament) of 24 members, elected every 5 years on the basis of universal suffrage. In 2002, parliament received the right of legislative initiative (previously it belonged only to the prince). The Council can make amendments to government projects, approves the imposition of taxes. It also ratifies international treaties that change existing domestic legislation.
The judicial branch of government is also headed by the prince; various courts administer justice on his behalf.
Head of State
stva- the prince, who represents the principality in relations with other states, puts forward bills, carries out, in agreement with the National Council, a full or partial revision of the constitution, has the rights of pardon, amnesty, awards and granting Monegasque citizenship. Prince of Monaco since May 9, 1949 - Rainier III (Louis Henri Maxence Bertrand) of the Grimaldi dynasty, born in 1923, grandson of Prince Louis II. He graduated from the University of Hastings in the UK and the University of Montpellier (France), in 1944-1945 he served in the French army with the rank of colonel. Died April 6, 2005.
Under the prince there is a Crown Council, which is designed to assist the head of state in the implementation of a number of constitutional prerogatives and advise him on issues affecting the interests of the state. He gives opinions on draft laws and decrees submitted to his consideration by the prince.
Parliament of Monaco- National Council, consisting of 24 members elected for 5 years by universal suffrage of Monegasque citizens of both sexes who are at least 18 years old. 16 members of the National Council are elected by a majority vote, 8 by a proportional voting system. Members of parliament pass laws and the budget of the principality; amendments to the constitution require at least 2/3 of the vote. The National Council may be dissolved by the head of state with the consent of the Government Council, but new elections must be called without delay. The national government is not responsible to the National Council.
Executive branch b comes from the prince. Administration is carried out by the Minister of State, who represents and is appointed by the head of state. The Minister of State is assisted by the Government Council, which he heads, consisting of advisers responsible for the management of specialized departments. The minister and council members are responsible to the prince for the administration of the principality. The responsibilities of the government include: developing bills and presenting them to the prince, ensuring compliance with laws, directing administrative and public services, issuing ministerial acts and decrees concerning the implementation of laws and princely decrees, commanding the forces of order and the police, conducting foreign policy, etc.
Legislature in Monaco belongs to the prince, but he delegates it entirely to the judiciary acting on his behalf. The legal system is based on the French legal code. It consists of courts of first instance, magistrates and appellate courts. There is also a Supreme Court, consisting of five members and two assessors, appointed by the prince for a term of four years on the proposal of the National Council.
Administratively, the principality consists of four quarters corresponding to the cities that form it.
Monaco has a police force, but no army of its own, other than the 65-member Royal Guard. Defense matters are the responsibility of France.
(French Principauté de Monaco) is a dwarf state located in southern Europe on the coast Mediterranean Sea; on land it borders with France. Is one of the smallest and most populous countries peace. It will take the average person just 56 minutes to walk across the country. The name of the country comes from the ancient Greek “monoikos” - “hermit”. The Principality is widely known for its casino in Monte Carlo and the stage of the Formula 1 championship, the Monaco Grand Prix, held here.
The country is a member of such international organizations as: UN (since 1993), OSCE, Council of Europe (since 2004), Interpol, UNESCO, WHO. The main office of the International Hydrographic Organization is located in Monaco. Monaco has 10 diplomatic missions in Western Europe and permanent representatives to the UN and the Council of Europe. Monaco has honorary consulates in 106 cities in 45 countries. 66 countries have consulates general, consulates or honorary consulates in Monaco
Story
The history of modern Monaco begins in 1215 with the founding of a colony of the Genoese Republic on the territory of the principality and the construction of a fortress.
On January 8, 1267, during the civil war in Genoa, Monaco was occupied by Francois Grimaldi and his supporters. This date is considered to be the beginning of the reign of the Grimaldi dynasty and the existence of the independent state of Monaco. Since then, for more than 700 years, the principality has been ruled by representatives of this family.
In 1789 the country was annexed by France.
The Treaty of Paris (first) on May 30, 1814 restored the principality within the borders that existed before January 1, 1792, under a French protectorate.
After the final collapse of the Empire, according to the Treaty of Paris (second) on November 20, 1815, Monaco was transferred to the protectorate of the Kingdom of Sardinia.
In March 1860, in gratitude for the military assistance provided by the French Emperor Napoleon III to the unification of Italy, the Kingdom of Sardinia ceded Savoy and the County of Nice, including Menton and Roquebrune, to France. On July 18, 1860, Sardinia withdrew its troops from Monaco, thereby ending the protectorate.
In 1865, a casino was opened in Monte Carlo and a customs union was created with France, which significantly boosted the country's economic development.
The first constitution limiting the power of princes was introduced in 1911.
In 1993, Monaco became a full member of the UN.
Widespread interest in Monaco was aroused by the wedding in 1956 of the then ruler Prince Rainier III (acceded to the throne in 1949) with Hollywood actress Grace Kelly. Rainier also launched active construction in Monaco.
On 31 March 2005, Prince Rainier III, being too ill to exercise his powers, transferred them to his only son and heir, Prince Albert. Rainier died on April 6, 2005.
Currently, the son of Rainier III, Prince Albert II, rules after the death of his father in 2005.
State structure
According to the form of government, Monaco is a constitutional monarchy, with some secondary signs of dualism. The head of state is the prince.
The country's government is regulated by the constitution, which came into force on December 17, 1962. The Constitution, in particular, although it proclaims the principle of separation of powers, the power of the prince is absolute (cannot be limited by anything or anyone). In 2002, the constitution of the principality was revised. Officially, the powers of the legislative body (National Council) were somewhat expanded.
The executive power is represented by the Minister of State (head of government) and the State Council (government) of four people headed by him. The Minister of State is a French citizen who is confirmed by the Prince for a period of 3 years on the proposal of the French government.
Legislative power is divided between the prince and the unicameral National Council (parliament) of 24 members, elected every 5 years on the basis of universal suffrage. In 2002, parliament received the right of legislative initiative (previously it belonged only to the prince). The Council can make amendments to government projects, approves the imposition of taxes. It also ratifies international treaties that change existing domestic legislation.
The judicial branch of government is also headed by the prince; various courts administer justice on his behalf.
Main political organizations: Union for the Principality, National Union for the Future of Monaco, Union for the Development of Monegasque Society, National Democratic Union. The Monaco Trade Union Association has about 5 thousand members.
Geographical position
Monaco is located in southern Europe on the Mediterranean coast near the French Cote d'Azur 20 km northeast of Nice. On land, the principality borders on France, the Alpes-Maritimes department.
The country's area is 2.02 km² (which is almost double less area Central Park in New York). Length coastline- 4.1 km, length of land borders - 4.4 km. Over the past 20 years, the country's territory has increased by almost 40 hectares due to the drainage of marine areas.
Administrative division Monaco
Administratively, the principality is divided into 3 communes (quartiers), which in turn are divided into 10 districts (wards). The division of the principality into three communes was legalized by the Constitution of Monaco of 1911. Based on the amendment to the Constitution of Monaco of 1917, the principality consists of only one single and indivisible commune, which in turn consists of 10 districts.
Population
As of 2006, the population of Monaco is 35,656 people. The population density is 18,285 people/km². Such a high population density is due to the fact that Monaco is a dwarf state. The annual population growth is 0.386% per year (2007 data). Average life expectancy according to 2008 data is 79.96 years. Women predominate slightly among the population. The ratio of the number of men to the number of women is 0.91 (according to 2004 data). 62% of the population is considered to be of working age. The literacy rate is 99%. National composition:
French - 47%
Monegasques - 16%
Italians - 16%
others - 21%. This large category includes representatives of 125 nationalities.
Religion
The official religion is Catholicism. However, Monaco's constitution guarantees freedom of religion. Monaco has 5 Catholic parish churches and one cathedral, which houses the see of the Archbishop of Monaco. The diocese, which had existed since the mid-nineteenth century, was converted into an archbishop's diocese in 1981.
Anglicanism
Monaco has one Anglican church (St. Paul's Church), located in Monte Carlo. In 2007, there were 135 parishioners who were citizens of Monaco. However, the church serves a larger number of parishioners, mainly tourists. The church also has a library with more than 3,000 books in English.
The Cultural Israeli Organization of Monaco (founded 1948) includes a synagogue, a Jewish school and a kosher grocery store located in Monte Carlo. The community (about 1,500 members) is mainly composed of Jews of retirement age from Britain (40%) and North America.
Economy
Advantages: Promised banking secrecy and low taxes attract billions of dollars from abroad. At the end of the 90s. the volume of funds stored in Monegasque banks had an annual increase of 18%. There is no external debt, foreign exchange reserves are about $ 2 billion. Low unemployment (3%).
Weaknesses: in accordance with the agreement with France, since 1994, suspicious accounts have been disclosed by banks, as has become the case in all other countries. Dependence on economic fluctuations in France and Italy. VAT generates 55% of government revenue. EU requirement to tighten banking and tax legislation. Lack of resources, complete dependence on imports.
The Principality is widely known as tourist centre thanks to the casino and excellent climate: 300 sunny days a year. However, modern Monaco is characterized by a well-developed and diversified economy in which tourism plays an important but not dominant role.
The principality's GDP is estimated at 870 million US dollars (1999). The main sectors of the economy are tourism, construction, pharmaceutical, chemical and electronic industries, banking and financial sectors. The annual turnover of companies registered in the country exceeds 9 billion euros.
The unemployment rate is very low. The total number of jobs - 45,000 - exceeds the number of people in the country. A significant part of those working in Monaco are foreigners.
The Principality has a very liberal taxation system. Income individuals(both citizens of the country and foreigners permanently residing in Monaco, with the exception of the French) are not subject to taxes.
The Principality has close economic ties with France. The two countries have common customs and financial systems. Monaco depends on imports of French electricity.
Until 2002, Monaco minted its own national currency, the Monegasque franc, however, on January 1, 2002 it was put into circulation in Monaco new currency- euro. The country received the right to mint its own euro coins with a national design on one side of the coin.
Legal system
The legal system of Monaco belongs to the Romano-Germanic legal family and has significant similarities with French law. In a number of areas (insurance, telecommunications, postal services, etc.), French laws directly apply.
The Constitution of Monaco (Article 2) assigns to the Principality the status of a rule-of-law state based on respect for fundamental human rights and freedoms.
Main source civil law— The Civil Code of 1881, which is a version of the French Civil Code of 1804. The Commercial Code of Monaco is also very close to its French counterpart.
Monaco's economic legislation is aimed at attracting foreign capital to the country by providing an extremely preferential tax regime. There are about 800 international companies and 50 banks operating in the country.
Monaco's labor law generally complies with international standards. Workers are free to organize into trade unions. The Constitution provides for the right to strike in accordance with the law. The law prohibits government employees from striking. Statutory work week- 39 hours.
The main source of criminal law is the Criminal Code of Monaco. The death penalty for all crimes was abolished by the 1962 Constitution (Article 20). The last death penalty took place in 1847.
In legal proceedings, with some exceptions, French law also prevails. According to the Constitution (Article 19), arrest (except for arrest at the scene of a crime) is permitted only on the basis of a court warrant issued no later than 24 hours from the moment of arrest.
Transport
Monaco is connected to the outside world through rail, road, sea and air transport.
The length of the railway network is 1.7 km. The gauge is 1.435 m. The railways are operated by the French national railway company SNCF. The Principality is connected to France both by regional routes and by high-speed TGV trains.
The total length of motorways is 50 km (All roads are paved) There are 6 bus routes in the country, as well as a bus service to Nice Airport. There are a total of 143 bus stops throughout Monaco.
There are two in the city sea ports: in the areas of La Condamine and Fontvieille.
The Principality is connected by helicopter to Nice Airport.
Climate
The climate of Monaco is subtropical, Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers (average temperatures 28-30 degrees) and mild, rainy winters (average temperatures 10-12 degrees. The majority of precipitation falls in autumn and winter. In general terms, the climate is similar to the southern coast of France.
Sport
Every year since 1929, Monaco has hosted one of the most prestigious competitions in motorsport - the Monaco Grand Prix, which has been part of the Formula 1 World Championship since 1950. The route runs along the city streets. The Auto Club de Monaco also hosts the Monaco Rally, which is part of the calendar of leading rally championships. However, the rally itself is held mostly in France, and only maintenance and exhibition special stages are held in the principality itself.
Also based in Monaco is the football club of the same name (FC Monaco), which plays in the French football championship. The club plays at the Stade Louis II in the Fontvieille area. At the same time, the Monaco Football Federation is not recognized by FIFA, and the club plays for France in the international arena. At the same time, Monaco is a member of the NF-Board, which organizes matches of unrecognized football teams.
Monaco hosts one of the stages of the Global Champions Tour ( international tournament in show jumping). This stage is recognized as the most prestigious of the series, hosting the most famous riders from around the world. In 2009, the stage in Monaco took place on June 25-27.
In July 2009, the opening of the Tour de France cycling race took place in Monaco. On July 2, the opening of the Tour de France took place in the La Condamine area. On July 4, the first stage of the cycling race took place on the territory of the principality, cyclists rode 15 km along city streets, and on July 5, the second stage of the Tour de France began in Monaco.
In Monaco, the Stade Louis II traditionally hosts matches for the UEFA Super Cup in August each year, in which the winner of the UEFA Champions League meets the winner of the UEFA Cup.
Culture
Monaco is a significant cultural center. Built in 1879 by the architect Charles Garnier (author of the Paris Opera), the Salle Garnier building is home to the Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra and the Monte Carlo Opera.
On this stage in different years sang: Nellie Melba, Enrico Caruso, Fyodor Chaliapin, Placido Domingo, Luciano Pavarotti. In 1911, the Russian Diaghilev Ballet was founded here by Sergei Pavlovich Diaghilev under the patronage of Prince Pierre of Monaco. Anna Pavlova, Vaslav Nijinsky, Tamara Karsavina, George Balanchine, Serge Lifar danced here. Later - Rudolf Nureyev, Mikhail Baryshnikov.
Monaco - capital and residence of the Prince of Monaco
The Academy of Classical Dance named after Princess Grace, headed by Marika Bezobrazova, was created in Monte Carlo. The Prince Pierre Foundation, founded by Rainier III in honor of his father, annually awards the Grand Literary Prize, the Prince Rainier III Music Prize and the International Prize for Contemporary Art.
The city is home to the famous Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, whose director was the legendary explorer Jacques-Yves Cousteau.
Every year Monaco hosts the International Circus Festival and the International Television Festival.
The Russian artist Georgy Shishkin works and exhibits in Monaco (Christie’s, 1999, Grimaldi Forum, 2006) - the author of paintings dedicated to Russia, “Russian Dreams”. Invited to the Palace to paint a portrait of the Prince of Monaco (1998), he created a number of Monaco postage stamps: “Salle Garnier”, “Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra”, “Boris Pasternak”, “Portrait of Prince Albert II”, “Centenary of the Diaghilev Russian Ballet”.
Education
Primary and secondary education
Monaco has 10 public schools, including 7 kindergartens and primary schools and one high school(College Charles III), one lycée that provides general and technical education (Lycée Albert I) and one lycée that provides education in the field of tourism. Also in Monaco there are two private schools funded by religious communities (Institut François d'Assis Nicolas Barré and the Dominican School) and one international school (International School of Monaco)
Higher education
There is only one higher education in Monaco educational institution— International Institute of Monaco.
Foreign relations of Monaco
Monaco and France have a very unique relationship. The French constitution states that this country does not recognize the independence of Monaco, but the independence of the Grimaldi dynasty. Thus, Monaco will be immediately occupied by France if the Grimaldi family is suppressed. Already, French troops may be stationed on the territory of Monaco. Monaco's sovereignty is guaranteed by numerous conventions with France. According to the agreement of 1918, 2 out of 4 seats in the Government Council, including the post of Minister of State, are occupied by representatives of France.
Armed forces
There are 82 people under arms. Monaco is apparently the only state in the world where the size of the regular army is smaller than the size of the military band (85 people). Sometimes there is work for the army:
" - This happened in 1962, - ... - The fate of Monaco hung in the balance. French President General de Gaulle threatened the principality to cut off electricity and water supplies if it did not stop luring bankers to itself and did not introduce an income tax. 80 guardsmen Royal Palace and 207 Monaco police officers were alerted. Fortunately, the war did not happen. The prince made concessions..."
Monaco, whose population is less than 38 thousand people, is, nevertheless, one of the most densely populated countries in the world. It should be said that the inhabitants of this principality do not live in poverty. The density of moneybags per square meter in Monaco is simply amazing. What do we know about this principality? Yes, there is a world famous casino there. The Grand Prix of the Formula 1 rally is also played in Monaco. A feature film was also shot in Hollywood about Princess Grace Kelly, brilliantly played by actress Nicole Kidman. What else do we know about this dwarf state? We invite you to take a short virtual trip to the principality of refined luxury and bold adventures.
Where is Monaco
The name Cote d'Azur tells you something - this coast of the Gulf of Marseille in France is the place of the most luxurious holiday. Cannes, Antibes, Nice - the very name of these resorts sounds like a song. The slopes descending like an amphitheater to the Mediterranean Sea are covered with villas costing several million dollars . Movie stars and owners of interstate trading corporations settle here. And among all this splendor, the small principality of Monaco is nestled. Its population is small, and the area is even more so. The old city of Monaco is only visible. The state does not have its own water area, although in the last 20 years the principality is surrounded on all sides by France. In summer it is one hour behind Moscow, and in winter - two. The capital is the city of Monaco. The country has a so-called dualistic monarchy. It is limited by the Constitution. The state is ruled by a prince - now it is Albert II. Despite its modest size, Monaco is represented in the UN, UNESCO, WHO, Interpol, the Council of Europe and the OSCE.
History of Monaco
Back in the tenth century BC, there was a Phoenician settlement on the rock where the dwarf principality is now located. Later, Greeks and Ligurians lived here. The history of the principality dates back to 1215, when the Monaco fortress was built on the rocky shore. Its population was small. Basically it was a military garrison. In the nineties of the thirteenth century, an outbreak broke out in Genoa Civil War between the Guelphs and the Ghibellines. A certain Francesco Grimaldi disguised himself as a Franciscan monk and knocked on the evening of January 8, 1297, at the gates of the fortress, asking for shelter for the night. The guards were severely punished for their kindness. His accomplices, who burst in after Grimaldi, slaughtered the entire garrison. And Francesco himself founded a new princely line. For more than seven hundred years, the state has been continuously ruled by the Grimaldi family. And the state coat of arms is decorated with two Franciscan monks with swords.
Modern history of the country
It cannot be said that the independent country has never disappeared from the political map of Europe since then. Having passed under the Treaty of Perron in 1641 under the protectorate of France, Monaco was completely annexed by its powerful neighbor in 1789. But after the collapse of the Napoleonic Empire, the principality went to the Kingdom of Sardinia. It remained under his protectorate for half a century. In 1860, Sardinia withdrew its troops. The entire small area of Monaco was again recognized as sovereign. The economic rise of the dwarf state began in 1865, when a casino opened in Monte Carlo. A customs union was concluded with France. In 1911, a constitution appeared, where for the first time the power of the prince was limited. Foreign investors such as Aristotle Onassis provided significant assistance in the development of Monaco's economy. He invested in the entertainment industry and port construction.
The most famous princess
Until the twentieth century, representatives of the princely family of Monaco entered only into strategically advantageous marriage alliances. However, times change, and so do morals. In the middle of the twentieth century, fate brought the ruling Prince Rainier III together with the American actress Grace Kelly. She came to star in Alfred Hitchcock's film To Catch a Thief. And Rainier the Third, who ascended the throne in 1949, was the most eligible bachelor at that time. The couple's wedding took place in a narrow circle on April 18, 1956. The misalliance did not cause a big scandal (after all, the twentieth century!). In addition, Princess of Monaco Grace Kelly did everything possible to make the local people love her. She learned the language and customs. But its main merit is the preservation of the sovereignty of the principality in the complex political relations of the state with France. This is the story of the film “Princess of Monaco” starring Nicole Kidman. On September 13, 1982, Grace Kelly was driving. As a result of the stroke, she lost control of the car, causing the car to fall off a cliff. Grace died in hospital the next day. Her youngest daughter, seventeen-year-old Stefania Maria Elisabeth, was also in the car. The girl suffered a serious neck fracture. IN given time The country is ruled by Grace's son, Albert II, Prince of Monaco. The population carefully preserves the memory of the “American princess.” The main hospital is named after her, and a commemorative coin was issued in her honor.
Holidays in Monaco
The area of the country, as already indicated, is only two square kilometers. This is three times smaller than Moscow's Sokolniki Park. But in the last twenty years, thanks to the draining of the coast, the area of Monaco has increased by almost forty hectares. A port was equipped. Monaco thus became a maritime power in the truest sense of the word. But the principality is not famous for its beach holidays. The content of these two square kilometers is much more interesting than in Sokolniki. There are four cities there: Monte Carlo, Monaco-Ville, La Condamine and Fontvieille. All significant tourist attractions are concentrated on the Saint-Antoine rock jutting out into the sea. This Old city, or Monaco-Ville. Only indigenous people - Monegasques - are allowed to settle here. They are also tax exempt. In Monaco-Ville there are the princely Grimaldi Palace, the cathedral with the tomb of Grace Kelly, the ancient Misericord chapel, Fort Antoine, the wax museums, Napoleon and the Old Town, the historical archive, and the gardens of St. Martin. On the square in front of the residence of Albert II, a ceremony is held every day for the guards to change the guard of honor. It is also interesting to visit the Oceanarium.
Monte Carlo
A description of Monaco would be incomplete without mentioning this capital, where life is dedicated to gambling and nightlife. Gambling Center and nightlife at all. The key attraction here is Europe's first ever casino. This is the gambling house "Du Monte Carlo". It can be called a gambling establishment, which appeared first in the world among phenomena of this kind. But don’t think that people are going to Monte Carlo just to try their luck. There is the famous Japanese Garden, St. Charles Church and the amazing National Doll Park. For shopping you should go to La Condamine. This town has a port, a park of exotic plants, an Anthropological Museum, Big market, Church of the Holy Virgin, pedestrian street Princess Caroline. Fontvieille is a new seaside district. There is a zoo, car museums, sea vessels, numismatics and philately.
Weather in Monaco
The state is located in a subtropical climate zone. It has hot, dry summers and warm, rainy winters. The average temperature in January is +10 degrees, and in July it does not drop below +23. The best time to visit the dwarf state is from May to early October. Region protected from northern winds Alps. And in summer, the heated air is refreshed by a light breeze from the sea.
Prices
As already mentioned, the principality is not a country beach holiday. For sun and sea, people go to Nice and Antibes, because life is cheaper there. Therefore, the weather in Monaco is not a predetermining factor for traveling to the country. Tourists come here to experience the world of refined luxury: to lose even a euro in the oldest casino, to watch Formula 1 races, and to visit the current residence of the prince. Prices in hotels in Monaco are quite consistent with the status of the country. There are simply no budget hotels here. Prices for a standard room start from fifteen thousand rubles per night. Restaurants are not far behind the hotels. Just one dish at Louis the Fifteenth costs about two hundred euros.
Located in the south of Europe, one of the smallest states on the mainland, surrounded on almost all sides by France, the Principality of Monaco can safely be called a model of excellent taste and love of life. Of course, the interests here are the most high-society: expensive yachts, swinging in an azure casino with awe-inspiring bets and breathtaking Formula 1. And the royal family is generally the main attraction of the principality.
We will try to consider all this in more detail in this article, dedicated to the amazing and attractive country - Monaco. Let's go there!
A little more geography
The Principality of Monaco, alas, is not flattered by the map. On it it is marked by just a dot, drowned in the vastness of France. And it can be quite difficult for an inexperienced person to find it.
But it is precisely this small size that is one of the most attractive features that forces tourists from all over the world to look for the microstate on the map. How many people want to get into this world of prosperity and refined taste, which, by the way, is guarded by an army of only 82 people! Can you imagine? And this despite the fact that in the military orchestra of the same Monaco there are 85 people. But they are not afraid, because France has taken responsibility for the security of the principality in the event of an attack by other states. Like this!
And for those who find it somewhat difficult to answer the question of where Monaco is located, we will explain: where the territories of France and Italy come together, about ten kilometers from their junction on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea there is a bright point that attracts wealth , luck and success.
Meet the ruling family of Monaco
This is one of the few modern monarchies where the powers of the crowned person and the real head of state belong to the same person.
Monaco is ruled by a representative of the oldest dynasty in Europe, Prince Albert II, he is the son of Prince Rainier II and the Hollywood star, the beautiful Grace Kelly. Albert's wife, Queen of Monaco (quite in line with modern trends) is an athlete from South Africa, Olympic swimming champion Charlene Lynette Wittstock. The royal wedding took place in 2011.
Since the worthy ruler of this small state There are still no official heirs, but Prince Albert's sister, Princess Caroline Louise Margherita Grimaldi and her children are still considered as such. But the principality is waiting to appear little prince who will lead a prosperous country in the future.
Where is Monaco and how to get there?
We have already talked a little about where the principality is located in the introductory part, but anyone who decides to go to this land of dreams will be interested in the details. For example, how to get there?
The easiest and fastest way to get to Monaco is to fly to Nice, and then take a bus (the journey takes 45 minutes) or a train (no more than half an hour). If you have a car, then travel from Nice to Monaco is just a 30-minute drive.
In the absence of direct flights to Nice, the flight is made to the capital of France, Paris, from where it is 950 km to the principality, covered in a few hours by train.
By the way, the train station in Monaco, the photo of which we bring to your attention, is located right in the mountain. And when leaving the carriage, travelers get the impression that they have found themselves in some kind of unreal world. Which, actually, is not far from the truth!
A few words about where to apply for a visa to Monaco
An interesting fact is that permanent residents of Monaco are only 20% of its population, the remaining 80% are rich people and businessmen traveling back and forth from the principality. But nevertheless, getting into this miniature state is not so easy. It should be mentioned that since Monaco is a member of the European Union, a Schengen visa is required to visit here.
Due to the fact that there is no representative office of this country in Russia, travelers have to apply for permission to enter the principality at the offices located in Moscow (Bolshaya Yakimanka St., 45) and St. Petersburg (English Embankment, 42). There are similar centers in Nizhny Novgorod and Yekaterinburg.
Climate of Monaco
Since it is usually very important for travelers to know what kind of weather will await them at their destination, we inform you that in the places where Monaco is located, the Alps serve as reliable protection from the northern winds that bring cold, and the cool sea breeze will make the summer heat less debilitating .
Similar geographical position gives birth characterized by dry, cool summers and warm, damp winters. So, in July the average temperature here is approximately +23 °C, and in winter, in January, it does not drop below +10 °C.
In Monaco, the best time to visit is the months from May to September.
Who lives where Monaco is located, or Features of the Principality
The autochthonous, that is, the original, population of the principality is the people called Monegasques. It makes up one fifth of all residents of Monaco and is recognized as a titular nation. Monegasques are exempt from all taxes, and only they have the right to settle in the old part of this city-state. This is prohibited for foreigners. It's a pity! It is from here, from a hill on Cape Saint-Antoine, that the most enchanting view of the sea and surrounding area opens up.
And now about the sights
In addition to the world-wide casinos in Monte Carlo and Formula 1 (by the way, its roar is strong and not in a figurative sense: visitors sitting in the stands are forced to cover their ears at the start so as not to lose their hearing), the country has a lot to offer quantity interesting places for tourists.
Monaco is located on amazingly beautiful hills descending to the Ligurian Sea (it is part of the Mediterranean waters), and is the most densely populated state in Europe.
His heart can be considered ancient capital, located on the top of the hill - Monaco-Ville. Here are the oldest buildings and the Cathedral, which does not fit into accepted stereotypes, built on the site of an ancient catholic church St. Nicholas in 1875. Inside the cathedral, paintings by the famous artist Louis Brea are kept. It is here that all members of the ruling family have been buried since the founding of the principality.
The facade of this cathedral overlooks the admirable place where the residence of the princes of Monaco has been located for seven centuries. This is where official receptions and international negotiations are held. Every day at noon, unchanged since the founding of the principality, a ceremonial changing of the guard of honor takes place in front of the palace, which a large number of tourists gather to watch.
The 18th century fortress Fort Antoine, named after the great music lover Prince Antoine I and now an open theater, is also worthy of attention.
A little more about the wonderful places of the Principality of Monaco
Any resident of the city can tell you where the Oceanographic Museum is located. Don't forget to visit it! It is truly considered a masterpiece modern architecture. The museum is located on an almost vertical cliff and has an underground aquarium. By the way, one of the very few where corals have taken root!
How beautiful are the gardens of St. Martin! This place in tiny Monaco allows city dwellers to escape from the hustle and bustle of the modern city in an almost pristine world, saturated with the aroma of herbs and flowers. The garden was opened during the reign of Honore V (first half of the 19th century). The sculptures standing along the small winding alleys that decorate the garden are a topic for a separate essay. Be sure to visit here!
Don't ignore the Church of St. Devota, which is considered the protector of the principality. By the way, on the day of memory of this great martyr, January 27, flowers always bloom around the temple.
Separately about museums
The most visited after the Oceanographic in Monaco is the Museum of Old Cars, founded by Prince Rainier III, who was a fan of them. He spent almost 30 years collecting a collection of vintage cars, which he presented in his museum. There are more than 100 models here.
A Maritime Museum owns more than two hundred and fifty exhibits related to the sea.
The Wax Museum is a reflection of the history of the Grimaldi dynasty. All the figures are life-size, and many are also dressed in ancient clothes, preserved from the founding of the dynasty.
You can't say goodbye to Monaco!
As you can see, Monaco is a state where there are not only wealthy local residents and those who come to have fun the mighty of the world this, but also a huge cultural layer. And all this is located in the most amazing point of our planet. Here there is the grace of flowering gardens, the sound of the sea, the excitement of games, and the delight of tourists. And you will definitely return here!
The territory of today's Monaco was first explored by the Phoenicians and Greeks, who arrived here in the 10th century. But the foundations of statehood here began to be laid in the late Middle Ages, when the principality became a colony of the Genoese Republic. At the end of the 13th century, civil war broke out in Genoa, and the fortress of Monaco was captured by Francesco Grimaldi. Dressed in a monastic robe, the rebel entered with a group of accomplices through the city gates and arbitrarily settled on the throne of the country. The result of this sudden invasion was that all subsequent rulers of the state were representatives of the Grimaldi clan, including the current Prince Albert II.
As for relations with France, Monaco voluntarily came under its protection in 1641, tired of the harsh and devastating Spanish protectorate for the treasury. True, in the future the principality had to fight for independence, first with France, and then with Sardinia. Monaco began to turn into an elite holiday destination and the gambling capital of Europe by imitating the German Bad Homburg. Namely: in the second half of the 19th century, Prince Charles III set out to “rob all of Europe” by concluding an agreement with the businessman Francois Blanc to build a casino. The final result of the deal was the appearance of the Monte Carlo region with its famous roulette on the state map, as well as a sharp influx of “thick wallets” who were eager to be the first to update the tables of the gambling establishment.
By the beginning of the 20th century, Monaco had become quite “promoted” financially, but it did not stop stirring up interest in itself. So in the “Roaring Twenties” a new lure was invented for the foreign elite - Grand Prix racing. The bet on the passion of millionaires for extreme sports turned out to be correct, and the golden stream flowing into the principality turned into a real money waterfall, providing for the Grimaldi family for several generations to come. The year 1956, when the ruler of Monaco, Rainier III, married Hollywood film star Grace Kelly, created no less a stir in the history of the country - the wedding and the subsequent (according to rumors, not very happy) family life of the couple were followed with bated breath by the media around the world.
Best time to travel
Monaco is quintessentially Mediterranean, where the seasons are not accompanied by extreme temperature changes. Accordingly, you can meet vacationers imposingly strolling along the city streets and squandering money in the Monte Carlo casino here all year round. A special influx of tourists is observed from May to October. Firstly, because it best time for swimming and getting a glamorous tan. And secondly, because it is during this time period that various celebrations and social events take place in the principality, starting with the Monaco Grand Prix and ending with the fireworks festival. The high season also has one significant downside - hotels are filled to capacity, so if you dream of relaxing on the beach with the European elite, get ready to book accommodation at the end of winter.
Early autumn in Monaco is a time of slight decline in tourist flow. The water in the sea slowly cools down and becomes pleasantly invigorating, and the sun gives an elegant golden tan without burning the skin, as sometimes happens in the summer. In addition, September in the principality is the time of the famous Monaco Yacht Show, where oligarchs compete with gigantic yachts, and mere mortals enthusiastically look at this vanity fair.
In November swimming season the country is declared closed, and dreary rains come to the Ligurian coast. The main significant event of this month is November 19 - National Day of Monaco. So if you want to see Albert II and Princess Charlene with your own eyes, try to attend this event, which begins with a festive mass in the cathedral and ends with an opera performance in Monte Carlo (entrance only for members of the princely family and their entourage). In general, late autumn in this “golden corner” is the best time to have a good time in nightclubs and lose everything to the bone in the casino. It's a bit boring and damp outside, but inside the bars and gambling houses it's cozy and fun. True, only if you have a solid cash reserve.
The closer the Mediterranean winter comes, with its cloudiness, above-zero temperatures and boring rains, the cheaper housing and restaurant menus become in Monaco. Of course, you won’t be able to hang out in the principality for just pennies, but if you arrive at the resort in January-February, you can count on nice discounts. In addition, winter always means huge sales and the International Circus Festival.
Important: the most expensive winter month in Monaco is December. Catholic Christmas is approaching, which, on the one hand, attracts tourists to the principality, and on the other, allows hoteliers and restaurateurs to raise prices for their services.
Spring in Monaco is very picturesque and ideal for excursions. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to fully swim at this time, although in May you can already try to take a dip at the shore. But getting the necessary portion of ultraviolet radiation, starting in April, is quite possible. The Mediterranean spring is also rich in festive events, the most noisy of which are the Spring Arts Festival and the Comedy Film Festival. So if you love film premieres and dream of getting a selfie with Emir Kusturica and the like, check out the Principality in the spring.
Attractions and entertainment
Tiny but charming Monaco is a colorful mix of architectural monuments and pretentious places of entertainment, where it’s so nice to feel like “you belong”, throwing crispy banknotes left and right. Usually people go to the principality not for specific attractions, but to touch the legend of the Cote d'Azur and the replicated “Dolce Vita” atmosphere, which is available here not only to a handful of millionaires, but also to any buyer of a tour. Still, Monaco has a lot to show a visiting guest, so try to use the breaks between roulette and hanging out beach clubs as rationally as possible and walk (or ride) around the country’s iconic places.
According to tradition, the most spectacular buildings are grouped within the state capital - Monaco-Ville, also known as the Old Town. The pompous area occupied the rocky part of Cape Saint-Antoine and practically soared above the surface of the sea, which gave its appearance even more fabulous flavor. In Monaco-Ville, you should first of all look at the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, the Chapel of Divine Mercy, whose altar is littered with precious donations from pilgrims, and the Prince's Palace, where the descendants of the cunning Grimaldi have lived for 700 years. A small clarification: everyone is allowed into the residence, but you can only see the southern wing of the castle and the state apartments from the inside. Another must-see of Monaco-Ville is the botanical garden, which is called the Exotic Garden. Even if you are not a big fan of neat rose gardens and gigantic cacti, try to stay here at least for a short time - there are not many green squares and recreational areas in the principality where you can hide from the heat.
Be sure to take a walk in the area of Palace Square to watch the marching guard of honor - a hypnotic sight that you will want to watch again and again. And then go around all the museums of the Old Town - the Wax Museum of the Rulers of Monaco (there is also a figure of the brilliant Grace Kelly), the Museum of Old Monaco, the Oceanographic Museum and the Napoleon Museum (the very southern wing of the royal palace).
- an attraction more recent than the princely nest of Monaco-Ville. Built in the 70s on territory reclaimed from the sea, this part of the principality is considered its industrial center, but this does not make it any less interesting. Tourists are usually attracted to Fontvieille by two objects: the Museum of Vintage Cars, where the bulk of the exhibits (and there are more than a hundred of them) belonged to Prince Rainier III, and also football stadium"Louis II". In addition, next to the area there are the famous Grimaldi rocks, which in Monaco are always full of people who want to conquer them.
The best place to chase tycoons and movie stars with your camera is in the La Condamine area. Firstly, because here is the main marina of the principality, where the most expensive yachts are moored (Port Hercules). And secondly, because it is the business center of the country, where businessmen from all over the world flock to invest their own money. In terms of the excursion and observation program, the area is also not an outsider. The Church of Sainte Devote, the Princess Antoinette park, the Rainier III outdoor swimming pool in the port, which in winter turns into a huge ice skating rink - these and other attractions belong exclusively to the territory of La Condamine.
The most famous area of the country, surpassing even the pretentious Monaco-Ville in popularity, is certainly Monte Carlo. The old-world mecca of gambling, where losses are usually greeted without drama and with champagne, and where winnings are enjoyed with maximum restraint, has an incredible magnetism that is impossible to resist. By the way, subjects of the principality, including representatives of the Grimaldi family, are prohibited by law from playing roulette, but guests from other countries of the world are always given the green light.
The most popular items in resort stores, in addition to fashionable outfits and niche perfumes, are a variety of antiques and everything related to racing. Casino paraphernalia is also common - souvenir playing cards, chips and other small things reminiscent of an inglorious loss or a royal win.
The maximum concentration of boutiques and fashion stores is located in the area of the Golden Circle complex. The giant trading platform is located between the Monte Carlo Casino, the Alley Lumiere and the Rue des Beaux-Arts. Usually people come here to enjoy new items from the latest collections of Parisian and Milanese couturiers, as well as to look at the windows of souvenir shops and antique boutiques. The main competitor of the Golden Circle is shopping mall"Metropol". In addition to dresses from Kenzo and shirts from Hugo Boss, you can buy electronics and selective perfumes here.
PradaFor jewelry, designer furniture and new gadgets, it is better to look into the Fontvieille district, in the shopping center of the same name. You can also waste money in the block between Princess Grace Street and Mill Boulevard. If you previously thought that everything in Monaco was expensive, then after visiting this area the rest of the country’s stores will seem like discounters. The situation is much the same in the Old Town. There are countless souvenir shops near the princely residence, but the prices for all small things are cosmic.
Princess Charlotte Boulevard and the Street of Fine Arts are the realm of antique shops. This is where representatives of the Grimaldi family shop when the desire to acquire another expensive trinket comes to them. For delicious gifts from the Cote d'Azur, you need to go to the market of the La Condamine district (landmark - Place d'Armes). I can’t say that the prices there are pleasing, but the quality of the delicacies is excellent.
Large shopping malls in Monaco are open from 10:00 to 19:00 with a traditional siesta break, which lasts from 12:00 to 15:00. The opening hours of small private stores are even shorter: from 9:00 to 17:00 plus a lunch break lasting a couple of hours. The La Condamine market opens its stalls at 06:00 and closes at 12:00.
Communication and Internet
It’s paradoxical, but true: in one of the richest countries, free Internet is not wasted. Wi-Fi in Monaco is found mostly in hotels, cafes and beach clubs, and to use it, you will first have to become a client of the establishment. If there is no desire to enrich enterprising hoteliers and restaurateurs, it is better to purchase an Internet package from mobile operators.
By the way, about cellular communications. The pleasure is quite expensive, so experienced travel bloggers recommend using payphones installed near top attractions. Calling cards can be purchased at grocery store checkout counters or news kiosks. If without mobile communications absolutely nothing, then keep in mind that in Monaco it is provided by the same operators as in France. Accordingly, upon arrival in Nice or Paris, feel free to buy an SFR, Orange Fance or Bouygues Telecom SIM card - they will also be valid in the domain of Albert II.
An alternative to French operators is the tariff plans of Monaco Telecom. There is a small saving in terms of money, although there are more problems with finding and registering a prepaid package. For this reason, most travelers, when going to the principality, prefer to remain faithful to domestic operators, connecting to profitable roaming options.
Money
Cash transactions in Monaco are carried out in euros. There are no problems with paying by credit cards or withdrawing funds. The first ones are accepted everywhere, and ATMs are found at every step. Exchangers are easy to find in hotels and at the train station, or you can contact similar points at Nice airport. Banks offer the most favorable exchange rates. In Monaco they are open from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 to 16:30, including lunch break. If your visit to the principality falls on the weekend, the bank next door to the Monte Carlo casino, which is open daily from 12:00 to 23:00, will help out.
Tips in Monaco are included in the bill and amount to 15%. If such a line is not found in the check, you will have to issue a reward for the service yourself. Restaurant staff expects from you at least 10%, and better yet 15% of the amount left in the establishment. Taxi drivers have approximately the same expectations. Most hotels' maids and porters cost just a couple of euros.
VAT in Monaco is 18.6%, which can be refunded if you purchase one or more goods worth 185 EUR or more. Mandatory rule: purchases must be made in a store that supports the Global Blue system, and the buyer must fill out a receipt, usually issued at the checkout of the outlet and presented upon passing customs control in an Aeroport. You can get your money back at Global Blue refund points, the closest of which are in Cannes and Nice. Important point: use the system Tax free only allowed if you spend no more than 1000 EUR per day in Monaco.
Safety
Prince Rainier III once said that security in Monaco should be absolute. Since then, local law enforcement agencies have been strenuously striving to meet the high bar set by the head of state. Well, to be more precise, Monaco is one of the few countries in the world where you can safely walk around in a necklace for the price of an airplane and not be afraid of being robbed. Of course, even here it was not possible to completely get rid of the individuals lying in wait for other people’s smartphones and wallets, but every year it becomes more and more difficult for local thieves to “process” tourists. The reason for this is the operational work of law enforcement officers, who in Monaco are endowed with broad powers, video surveillance cameras hung on almost every pole, and strict sentences for even minor violations of public peace. By the way, you shouldn’t be afraid of reckless drivers on the roads either. Despite the fact that Monaco is the permanent residence of Formula 1, traffic rules are strictly observed here. Firstly, because Monegasques do not need problems with the law. And secondly, because the fines for speeding here, even by the standards of the Cote d'Azur, are fantastic.
Transport
Monaco is easy to get around on foot, but sometimes, due to the steep descents and ascents, you want to rest your legs and ride something. In such cases, buses running between regions of the principality will help. They run daily on six routes from 7:00 to 21:00 with an interval of 10 minutes (on weekends a little less often). You can purchase a ticket from the bus driver or at the office of the transport company CAM. The cost of one trip is 2 EUR, a pass for 6 trips is 11 EUR, a daily pass is 5.50 EUR.
You can take a tour of the most attractive locations of the principality at tourist buses Hop-on hop-off. For 23 EUR you can use them to travel around the country's iconic sights throughout the day, getting off and on again at any stop. Tickets can be purchased from the driver.
Quite an unusual look public transport, common in Monaco, are lifts that make it much easier to “storm” the cliff of Monaco-Ville. There are a total of 28 elevator shafts in the country, providing tourists with easy and quick access to the most interesting areas and beaches of the principality. You can see the location of the lifts and their movement patterns on the website citymapper.com. If for some reason the elevators don’t work out, use the free escalators. There are 7 of them in Monaco.
Helpful information: An autonomous electric shuttle is being tested in Monaco. A snow-white trailer with 15 passenger seats is equipped with air conditioning and travels between the Ministry building and the Oceanographic Museum, making stops on Palace Square and near Cathedral. You can ride it absolutely free from July 3 to September 8, 2019.
If you want a romantic walk around Monaco, take a sightseeing train that departs from the Oceanographic Museum and covers all the sights in half an hour (runs from February to November). Panoramic roofs of the carriages and an audio guide in Russian will make the trip unforgettable. Not less impressions You can also get an excursion on a sea bus, the parking lot of which is located in the Hercule port. The cost of a mini-cruise is equal to a standard trip on a city bus.
If you need more freedom of movement, but don’t want to exert yourself physically, take a look at stations with MonaBike electric bicycles, of which there are as many as 35 in the principality. The first half hour you can ride for free, and if you ride at least one minute less than an hour, you will pay 1 EUR for the operation of the vehicle. Monaco also has its own taxi services, whose cars should be looked for at iconic attractions, as well as in the train station area.
Rent a Car
You can rent a car in Monaco at most hotels. The second option is to go through online booking sites and choose a vehicle according to your own taste. As for prices, trying on the role of a billionaire in a sports car will cost 1500-2000 EUR per day, and the refundable deposit will be 15,000 EUR. Simpler options like the Audi A6 cost 100-110 EUR per day with a deposit of 4000 EUR. Well, in search of even greater cheapness, it is better to go to international rental companies like Sixt, where they offer to rent a modest Peugeot 208 for three days for 190 EUR.
And a little about the disadvantages that accompany driving around the principality. Firstly, this is the strictest speed limit and oligarchic fines for violating it. So, of course, it is possible to repeat the route of Formula 1 racers here, but you won’t be able to feel like the second Fernando Alonso, since the average permitted speed within Monaco is 50 km/h and much less often – 80 km/h. Secondly, the local terrain is not conducive to road travel, and the abundance of pedestrian areas where traffic is prohibited is completely depressing. You can’t get into Monaco-Ville with a rented car, which is only accessible by cars with local license plates.
The parking situation is also difficult. It will take a long time to find a place where you can leave your car without the risk of running into a fine, so it’s easier to go to underground parking. If you manage to find a free parking lot, pay attention to the road markings. Only the options outlined with a white line will be truly free. Blue means you have to pay for a space, yellow means parking is prohibited. The city plan, which you can download, will help clarify the parking situation a little.
Customs and visa information
To travel to Monaco, you will have to acquire a Schengen card and insurance covering the provision of medical services in the amount of 30,000 EUR. To apply for a visa, you must contact the French visa centers or consulate-General There is no French Republic – the principality has no diplomatic representation in Russia yet. The list of documents for obtaining Schengen is standard. The only point is that in Monaco they are extremely sensitive to everything related to money, and especially to the financial viability of tourists. So get ready to provide Visa Center income certificates, bank statements, information about currency purchases and other evidence that you are a respectable person and not some kind of backpacker.
As for the import and export of currency, no restrictions are imposed on this item. Well, since the majority of Monaco’s guests are not poor people, only amounts from 10,000 EUR are required to be declared at customs. The following are not subject to import duties: tobacco – in the amount of 250 g; cigarettes – no more than 200 pcs.; cigars – up to 50 pcs. A liter of strong alcohol and a couple of liters of wine can also be transported freely.
Representatives of the fair half who go to Monaco to “walk” jewelry should know that the total weight of jewelry should not exceed 500 g. Otherwise, the “excess” will have to be declared. Medicines are also allowed to be imported, but most of them will require a doctor’s prescription certified by a notary.
Products prohibited for import/export are narcotic substances, weapons, endangered species of plants and animals, pornographic materials, as well as meat products from African countries.
Train Nice – MonacoAn alternative to rail transport is buses No. 100 and 101. In Nice, they leave from Le Port station and go straight to Monaco. For those landing in the main city of the Provençal Alps on Thursday, Friday or Saturday evening, we recommend the night bus service Noctambus 100. You can board it directly at the airport. Well, the most comfortable option is a taxi. It is better to pre-order the transfer, specifying the quantity in advance seats and additional options such as a child seat and other safety travel attributes.
A holiday in the principality can also be combined with a tour of the French capital, so if you find yourself in Paris, but really want to go to Monaco, check out the website railways SNCF. Book a ticket on it high-speed train getting to Nice couldn't be easier. Well, then - the already familiar route by buses and trains.
Tourists vacationing on the Ligurian coast of Italy (the cities of San Remo, Savona, Genoa), but eager to spend money at the Monte Carlo casino, are recommended to use Trenitalia trains. You will have to get off at the Italian-French border, where you can immediately change to any SNCF train heading towards Nice or Cannes - they all stop in Monaco.
