You can get from Nice airport to Monaco by helicopter: the line operates, flight time is 7 minutes. The flight price is 97.51 euros for an adult and 57.51 euros for a child ticket. The ticket price includes delivery of guests to any hotel in Monaco. You can book a ticket online on the website of the helicopter line.
On our website in a special section you can read how to get to Nice .
Monaco is connected by rail to all nearby cities France, with Paris, with many cities in Italy, Spain and Europe, since the mini-state is located on the busy Nice - Menton - Ventimiglia railway line, linking Italy and France.
The length of the Monaco railway track is 1700 meters, most of it is removed into underground tunnels. Railroad Monaco is served by a French transport company.
So, from Paris ( Gare de Lyon) there are many train routes to Monaco - trains leave every 2 hours daily, travel time is 6.5-8.5 hours, ticket prices are 112-140 euros.
Regional trains (commuter trains) run from Nice and Cannes to Monaco. From Nice there are 5 flights per hour, travel time - 17-30 minutes, fare - 3.8-5 euros. From Cannes - 2 trains per hour, travel time - 1 hour, ticket price - about 10 euros.
From Italian cities it is also possible to get to Monaco by train: from Milan (Centrale) trains run once every 2 hours (travel time is about 5 hours, ticket price is about 35 euros), from Turin - one train per day (at 8: 35), travel time 4 hours 35 minutes, ticket price - 11.40 euros.
Monaco has two seaports: one in the Bay d'Hercule, almost in the center of the city in the La Condamine region, the second in the Fontvieille region. Yachts, cruise ships, other water transport cruising along the coast.
Climate and weather in Monaco
The climate in Monaco is subtropical Mediterranean, with hot dry summers and warm winters (the average temperature in July is + 22-23 ° С, in January - + 10-11 ° С). There are up to 300 sunny days a year, and about 60 rainy days. The average annual rainfall in Monaco is 1300 mm, they fall mainly in autumn. The Alps-Maritimes protect Monaco from the cold northern winds... In summer, sea breezes cool the coast.
Monaco Monthly Weather
Reviews by month
| January 5 February 2 March 7 | April 2 May 5 June 5 | July 7 August 13 September 11 | October 4 November 2 December 2 |
Pictures of Monaco
Cities and regions
The geographical boundaries of the city and the principality of Monaco coincide, but the city and the principality are governed separately. Monaco today includes the merged counties-cities of Monaco, Monte Carlo, La Condamine. A mini-state consists of only one commune (commune) and is divided into 10 districts (quartier).
- Monaco-Ville is an old city with a princely residence, located on a cliff. There are several significant landmarks in this area - the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, the Chapel of Mercy (1639) and the Oceanographic Museum, established by Prince Albert I in 1910.
- Monte Carlo is the largest district of Monaco, famous for its casinos and resort area. The area is also home to the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix.
- La Condamine is the port and financial center of the Principality of Monaco.
- Fontvieille is an area built in 1971 on the territory reclaimed from the sea as a result of drainage works. The area is home to the Louis II stadium, the University of Monaco and the heliport.
- Moneghetti is one of the modern residential areas of the Principality of Monaco.
- Larvotto (Larvotto or Larvotto Terano) is one of the modern districts of the Principality of Monaco with a population of 5443 people (in 2000), famous for its city beach.
- Saint Roman is another modern residential area of the Principality of Monaco.
- Saint Michel is also a modern residential area of the Principality of Monaco.
- La Colle is a residential area of Monaco.
- Les Revoires is the smallest district of the Principality of Monaco with a population of 2,515 people (as of 2000). The area is home to the famous Jardin Exotique, founded by Prince Albert I.
Monaco landmarks
Princely palace
The princely palace is the seat of the ruling Grimaldi family. The palace, perched atop a seaside cliff, was founded as a Genoese fortress in 1215. Throughout its history, the building has been expanded and rebuilt many times. Among the most famous premises of the palace - the Italian gallery with frescoes on mythological subjects by Genoese masters (16th century), stretching along the southern facade; Salon of Louis XV century. yellow and gold tones; Blue salon, decorated in blue and gold; Salon Mazarin, decorated with colorful wood in the Moorish style; The throne room with a large fireplace, where official ceremonies take place; Palantina chapel (XVII century); tower of St. Mary made of white stone.
Cathedral of Monaco
The Cathedral of Monaco, or Cathedral of St. Nicholas, is the main cathedral of the Principality, built of white stone in 1875 on the site of the old church of St. Nicholas of the 13th century. The cathedral is active, services are held on the days of religious holidays and November 19 on the Day of the Prince (Jour du Prince), which is considered the National Day of Monaco.
Chapel of Mercy
The Chapel of Mercy is a small church built in 1635 in the old town, on the City Hall Square. Initially, it was a gathering place for the Brotherhood of Penitent Sinners, chaired by Prince Honore II. This charitable association provided assistance and support to the sick, the poor, and prisoners.
Church of Saint Devota
The Church of Saint Devota is a temple dedicated to the patron saint of the Principality of Monaco. The church was built in the 11th century not far from the place where a ship with the body of the Christian martyr Devota from Corsica sank in the 4th century. The church was renovated and expanded in 1870.
Palace of Justice
The Palace of Justice is a notable building in Monaco. The palace began to be built in 1924 at the initiative of Prince Louis II, and was solemnly opened only on May 1, 1930. The palace was built of gray sea tuff, porous stone interspersed with small pebbles and shells.
Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium
The Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium is the most famous museum in Monaco, the scientific and cultural center of the country. It was founded in 1899 by Prince Albert I. The museum is housed in a monumental building built in 1910 by the architect Delefortrie on an almost vertical cliff at an altitude of over 80 meters. The collection of the museum, which was founded by Prince Albert I, contains samples of marine flora, stuffed animals and skeletons of marine animals, including a twenty-meter skeleton of a whale, as well as a variety of products from "seafood". The museum is best known for its aquariums located in the underground floor. The collection of aquariums - exotic and Mediterranean inhabitants of the waters of more than 200 species.
Princely collection of vintage cars
The princely collection of vintage cars contains about a hundred exhibits - rare classic cars from Europe and America. The collection includes such models as De Dion Bouton 1903, Lamborghini Countach 1986, Bugatti 1929, Rolls Royce 1952, Ford T 1924, Hispano Suiza 1928. This shining collection introduces visitors to all stages of the automotive history of the XX century.
Napoleon Museum and the collection of the Historical Archives of the Prince's Palace
The Napoleon Museum and the Historical Archive Collection of the Princely Palace is a collection located in the southern wing of the Prince's Palace, consisting of more than 1000 items and documents dating back to the period of the First Empire. The collection contains personal belongings of Napoleon, including those brought from the island of St. Helena. The second floor of the building houses a collection that tells about the history of the Principality of Monaco.
Maritime museum
The Maritime Museum of Monaco is a grandiose collection of models of various ships. The exposition of the museum acquaints visitors with the history of the development of shipbuilding. The collection of the museum contains about 180 models of famous sea vessels from transatlantic liners and scientific floating laboratories to military ships.
Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology
Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology - a collection founded by Prince Albert 1st century. 1902 year. The museum acquaints visitors with important stages in the history of the emergence and formation of man. The museum's collection includes archaeological finds made in the immediate vicinity of Monaco, dating back to the period from Australopithecus to Homo Sapiens, including Neanderthals and Cro-Magnons.
Exotic gardens
Exotic Gardens are one of the main landscape attractions of Monaco, founded in 1933. The gardens are located on a mountain slope, they are home to several thousand species of tropical plants, which, thanks to the local microclimate, bloom violently at any time of the year. At the foot of the cliff there is an entrance to a deep grotto with stalactites, stalagmites and limestone formations, with skillful illumination.
Alley of sculptures
On the initiative of the current Prince of Monaco, for several years now, the principality has been acquiring sculptural works by world famous masters. In the Fenvieille area, a special alley has been created, along which these sculptures are exhibited, which are available to the general public. In addition, sculptures by many contemporary authors from this collection are scattered throughout the city, decorating the streets and gardens of Monaco.
sights
Museums and galleries
Where to eat and drink
Entertainment
Transport
Shops and Markets
Things to do
Casino
The Principality of Monaco is famous for its gambling houses, which to this day collect the real European nobility in their halls. But, despite the abundance of the powerful of this world, the richest people on the planet and even representatives of royal families, mere mortals are allowed to enter, you only need to observe the dress code. Listed below are the most iconic Monaco casinos, follow the links below to find out more detailed information(description, history, types of game tables, entrance cost, photos, location on the map, address, and so on).
Formula I
Transport in Monaco
Buses
Public transport in Monaco is represented by bus routes running from 6: 00-7: 00 to 21:00 at intervals from 5 minutes to an hour. In total, there are 143 bus stops... All routes converge at Place d'Armes. Monaco city buses only connect tourist areas.
Main routes:
- No. 1 - Monaco-Ville - Monte-Carlo - Saint Roman;
- No. 2 - Monaco-Ville - Monte-Carlo - Exotic Garden;
- No. 4 - Place d'Armes - Railway station - Monte-Carlo - Saint Roman;
- No. 5 - Railway station - Fontvieille - Hospital;
- No. 6 - Larvotto beaches - Fontvieille.
A trip on the Monaco city bus costs 1.4 euros, a full-day ticket - 3.4 euros.
Escalators
Another kind public transport in Monaco, there are free escalators that take pedestrians to higher streets. There are 7 escalators in the principality.
Taxi
Taxis are available from the Plaza de Casino, train station, Avenue Princess Grace, Fontvieille, the Metropol Hotel, Place des Moline and the Monte Carlo Post Office. The fare is about 1.2 euros per kilometer, after 22:00 the fare increases by 25%. The main taxi company in Monaco is.
Tourist transport
Tourist transport in Monaco is represented by a steam locomotive with red carriages of the company. The train departs from the Museum of Oceanography and in half an hour travels around all the iconic sights of monaco... Audio guide available in 12 languages (French, English, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, Polish, Russian, Japanese, Chinese, Greek).
- The locomotive will operate from January 31 to November 15.
- The ticket price is 8 euros for an adult, 4 euros for a child.
Rent a Car
To rent a car in Monaco, the driver will need a license (all current international and national laws are valid in Monaco) and credit card... Most of the largest international car rental companies operate in the principality.
On the roads of Monaco, there is a speed limit of 50 km / h (in some places - up to 80 km / h). In Monaco-Vila, traffic is limited on most streets, some streets are generally exclusively pedestrian zones. Only cars with license plates from Monaco or the French department of Alpes-Maritimes are allowed to enter Monaco-Ville. The total length of the country's highways is 50 km.
Water transport
Water transport in Monaco is located in two seaports: in the port of Hercule in the La Condamine region and in the port of Fontvieille. A water bus operates in the port of Hercule, connecting the southern and northern parts of the port. A water taxi service is also developed.
In the ports of Monaco, it is possible to rent a yacht (with a skipper or for self-steering). Yacht rentals are available on and off.
Kitchen
The mini-state does not have its own national cuisine; all restaurants and cafes serve French, Italian and other European cuisines. The choice of catering outlets is large: from gourmet restaurants to pizzerias and coffee shops. Lunch at an inexpensive restaurant will cost from 20-25 to 100 euros.
Shopping in Monaco is quite an expensive pleasure. However, if funds allow, in the country you can buy ceramics of rare beauty, crystals, the best perfumes, unique jewelry. Bargaining is not accepted. Currency - Euro.
Shops are open from 9:00 to 12:00 and from 15:00 to 19:00 daily, with some small shops and boutiques operating on their own schedule.
Place du Casino and Avenue des Beaux-Artes, as well as their surroundings, are home to world-famous designer boutiques (Gucci, Hermes, Prada, Valentino, etc.), famous jewelry brands (Cartier, Bulgari, Repossi, etc.) etc.) and antiques. On Boulevard des Moulins you can find less expensive goods traditionally High Quality... Other famous shopping spots are rue Grimaldi and rue Caroline.
Remember that when you buy luxury goods in Monaco, you are exempt from VAT (10%).
Monaco has several shopping centers with shops, boutiques and grocery supermarkets under one roof.
So, one of the most popular is the Fontvieille Shopping Center. It unites 36 stores of clothing and footwear, accessories, cosmetics and perfumery, electronics, and furniture. There is also a Carrefour hypermarket, McDonalds, other cafes and restaurants.
One more shopping center- luxurious with 80 shops, open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 19:30 in building no. 17 on Avenue des Spélugues.
Security
The crime rate in Monaco is zero. This is due, first of all, to the social status of its inhabitants, as well as to the fact that the country has one of the most powerful and ramified police surveillance systems in the world. Police officers in uniform and in civilian clothes are watching residents and tourists everywhere and everywhere, they have the right to inspect suspicious objects and cars, check documents, telephone bills, hotel rooms and dwellings, and surveillance cameras are literally installed here on every tree and pillar. ...
Tourists traveling to Monaco should have an insurance policy, since medicine in the country is paid and very expensive, first aid will be provided to everyone without exception and free of charge, but all subsequent actions of doctors will be very expensive.
Total
% water surface
1.95 km²
0
Total ()
Density
32,965 people
16 905.1 people / km²
Total ()
Per capita
870 million
27 000
The country is a member of such international organizations as: UN (since 1993), OSCE, Council of Europe (since 2004), Interpol, UNESCO, WHO. The head 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. Honorary Consulates of Monaco are located in 106 cities in 45 countries. 66 countries have consulates general, consulates or honorary consulates in Monaco
History
Main article: History of Monaco
The history of modern Monaco begins in 1215 with the founding of a colony of the Republic of Genoa on the territory of the principality and the construction of a fortress.
Widespread interest in Monaco was aroused by the wedding in 1956 of the then ruler Prince Rainier III (ascended the throne) to Hollywood actress Grace Kelly. Rainier also launched active construction in Monaco.
State structure
Main article: Political structure of Monaco
The state structure of the country 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, but the power of the prince is absolute (nothing and no one can be limited). In 2002, the principality's constitution was revised. Officially, the powers of the legislature (the National Council) were somewhat expanded.
In Monte Carlo, the Princess Grace Academy of Classical Dance was created, headed by Marika Bezobrazova.
The Prince Pierre Foundation, founded by Rainier III in honor of his father, annually presents the Grand Prize for Literature, 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.
The International Circus Festival and the International Television Festival are held annually in Monaco.
Russian artist Georgy Shishkin (Christie’s, 1999, Grimaldi Forum, 2006) works and exhibits in Monaco - 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: "Hall Garnier", "Boris Pasternak", "Centenary of Diaghilev's Russian Ballet".
Education
Primary and secondary education
Monaco has 10 public schools, including 7 kindergartens and primary schools and one secondary school (College Charles III), one lyceum that provides general and technical education (Lyceum Albert I) and one lyceum that provides tourism education. Also in Monaco there are two private schools funded by religious communities (Institut François d'Assis Nicolas Barre and the School of the Dominicans) and one international school (International School of Monaco)
Higher education
There is only one institution of higher education in Monaco - the International Institute of Monaco.
Various questions
- Telecommunications in Monaco
- Relations with France
Monaco and France have a very peculiar relationship. The French constitution says 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 can be deployed on the territory of Monaco. Monaco's sovereignty is guaranteed by numerous conventions with France. According to the 1918 treaty, 2 out of 4 seats in the Government Council, including the post of Minister of State, are held by representatives of France.
Military establishment
82 people are under the arms. Monaco is apparently the only state in the world where the size of the regular army fewer military orchestra (85 people). Sometimes there is work for the army:
| - It happened in the year, - ... - The fate of Monaco hung in the balance. French President General de Gaulle threatened to cut off electricity and water supplies to the principality if it did not stop luring bankers to itself and did not introduce an income tax. 80 guards of the Royal Palace and 207 police officers of Monaco were alerted. Fortunately, the war did not happen. The prince made concessions ... |
Since 1297 the Principality of Monaco has been ruled by the Grimaldi family. During this time, Monaco has experienced many historical events, eventually becoming one of the most popular tourist centers Europe. Hundreds of millions of euros are invested in the local tourism industry every year, with tangible results. Nowadays Monaco is famous for its casinos in Monte Carlo, for holding races of the Forum-1 series, as well as for its beaches.
Geography of Monaco
The Principality of Monaco is located in Western Europe on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Monaco borders on France on three sides (13 km to Nice). The territory of this country is only 2.02 square meters. km. The land border is 4.4 km. The authorities of Monaco are planning in the future to slightly expand their territory by draining sections of the Mediterranean Sea.
Capital
The capital of the Principality of Monaco is the city of Monaco, which is now home to over 1.3 thousand people. The city of Monaco was founded in 1215 by Italians from the Republic of Genoa.
Official language
The official language in Monaco is French. Traditional Monegasque (a dialect of the Ligurian language spoken in Genoa) is now spoken by a minority of Monaco residents. Italian is also widely spoken in this Principality.
Religion
More than 83% of the population of Monaco are Catholics belonging to the Roman Catholic Church.
State structure of Monaco
Since 1911, the Principality of Monaco has been a constitutional monarchy. The head of state is the Prince of Monaco.
Legislative power belongs to a unicameral parliament - the National Council, consisting of 24 deputies elected for 5 years.
According to the 1911 Constitution, the Principality of Monaco was divided into three municipalities:
- Monaco-Ville - the old town;
- Monte-Carlo in the east and northeast;
- Condamine in the southwest, including the port of Hercules.
Now the Principality already has 5 municipalities (for example, the Fontvieille region is an area drained by the Mediterranean Sea).
Climate and weather
The climate in Monaco is Mediterranean with elements of oceanic and subtropical climate. Summers are warm and dry, while winters are mild and rainy. The average annual air temperature in Monaco is + 16.4C.
Sea in Monaco
The coastline in Monaco is 4.1 km away. Due to the rapidly growing population, the Monaco authorities are draining part of the Mediterranean Sea, then building houses and resorts in these places.
Average temperature of the Mediterranean Sea near Monte Carlo:
- January - + 13С
- February - + 13С
- March - + 13С
- April - + 14C
- May - + 17C
- June - + 20C
- July - + 23C
- August - + 23C
- September - + 22C
- October - + 20C
- November - + 17С
- December - + 15C
History
The first settlements on the territory of the modern Principality of Monaco were founded by the Phoenicians around the 10th century BC. The name "Monaco" comes from the ancient Greek word "monoikos" (people living separately from their fellow tribesmen).
According to the ancient Greek myth, the legendary Hercules (Hercules) once visited the territory of modern Monaco. That is why the temple of Hercules Monoikos was formed there, around which several settlements were formed. The city of Monaco itself was founded in 1215 by immigrants from the Republic of Genoa.
Since 1297, Monaco has been ruled by the Grimaldi family (the current Prince of Monaco is also from this family).
In the 17th century, the princes of Monaco come under French influence - they live in Paris, and not in their ancestral domain.
In 1797, the troops of revolutionary France capture Monaco, and the Grimaldi family temporarily loses power over this principality. However, in 1814, after the defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte's troops, the Grimaldi regained control of Monaco, but were under the protectorate of the Sardinian kingdom.
In 1860, Monaco again falls under the protectorate of France. In the mid-1860s, the first casino appeared in Monaco.
In 1911, the first Constitution was adopted in Monaco, which somewhat limited the power of the Grimaldi princes. In 1918, the Monaco-French treaty was concluded, according to which the interests of the Principality of Monaco in the international arena are represented by France.
In 1962, the Monaco Constitution was amended to give women the right to vote.
In 1993, the Principality of Monaco was admitted to the UN. In 2002, a new treaty was signed between France and Monaco. According to this treaty, if the Grimaldi dynasty has no heirs, the Principality will still remain an independent state.
The culture
For many centuries, the Principality of Monaco has successfully maintained religious and cultural traditions that are often already intertwined.
Every year the inhabitants of Monaco celebrate the feast of Saint Devote, which is considered the patroness of this Principality. Every year on January 27, street festivities, religious ceremonies and torchlight processions take place throughout the Principality. In the evening, a grandiose fireworks display in the sky over the harbor of Monaco.
On June 23-24, Monaco celebrates Saint Jean's Day. On this day, many young people dressed in national Monegasque costumes take to the streets. In Monte Carlo on June 24, open-air festivities take place until late in the evening.
Numerous carnivals take place in Monaco every year. The tradition of carnivals in the Principality began in the 15th century.
Monaco cuisine
Monaco's cuisine is influenced by Italian and French influences. This alone guarantees that food in Monaco is delicious. We advise tourists in Monaco to try:
- "Barbagiuan" - pies with rice, pumpkin, spinach and cheese;
- "Fougasse" - bread cake with cheese and onions;
- Stocafi - dried cod in thick tomato sauce;
- Socca - pea flour pancakes with chicken.
Monaco landmarks
Tourists come to Monaco to relax in the beautiful local resorts. However, sunbathing on the beach is also sometimes annoying, and therefore we recommend that tourists in Monaco see the following attractions:
Cities and resorts
The largest cities in Monaco are Monaco-Ville (the city of Monaco itself), Monte Carlo, La Condamine and Fontvieille. True, they are "big" only by local standards. Thus, more than 1.3 thousand people now live in the city of Monaco.
Skillful diplomacy and jewelry maneuvering between the interests of large countries and great powers have allowed such miniature states as the Vatican, Luxembourg, San Marino, Andorra, Monaco and Liechtenstein to survive to this day. The principality is called the same as the historical capital - Monaco. It should be noted that this state is the only one in the world where the number of employees in the army is 82, less than the musicians of the military orchestra, of which there are 85!
A small excursion into history
Already in the Stone Age, the first people settled the territory of the modern Monaco coast, but the warlike tribe of the Ligurs destroyed around the 2nd century BC. NS. their culture. Since the X century BC. NS. here lived the Phoenicians and Greeks, and then the Romans. During the heyday of the Roman Empire, Monaco was part of it, being part of the Alpes-Maritime province. A fierce struggle between the Ghibellines - supporters of the German rulers, and the Guelphs - adherents of the power of the popes, was fought for the principality in the Middle Ages.
The history of Monaco, associated with the Grimaldi dynasty, began in January 1279, when the city was captured by the Genoese Guelphs under the leadership of François Grimaldi, nicknamed the Evil One. He received his nickname for the fact that, according to legend, he entered the fortress, dressed in the clothes of a Franciscan monk, and managed to open the gate to let his companions in. In memory of such an event, on the coat of arms of the principality, two Franciscan monks with drawn swords act as shield holders.
For centuries, Monaco was under the protectorate of Spain, France and the Italian principalities. The principality became a sovereign state only in 1861 as a result of an agreement between Napoleon III and the Monegasque ruler Charles III, having lost most of its territory.
The rise of the economy in Monaco begins after the casinos were opened at the end of the 19th century. The tourism and resort industries are actively developing. Excellent climate, European service, fashionable atmosphere of this resort attract wealthy tourists from all over the world to the principality. A soft tax policy and a high level of security attract many entrepreneurs to this country, and in recent years Monaco has been successfully developing high-tech industries and tourism and services.
Where is it located?
This small principality is very well located in subtropical latitudes under the protection of the Alps-Maritimes, fencing it off from the northern cold winds, on the Mediterranean coast. On three sides, this sovereign city-state borders on France, and on its fourth border - on Mediterranean Sea... The principality is located on the hills of the Cote d'Azur. The total area of Monaco is 2.02 km2. It is home to about 37,000 people, which makes it the most populous in the world.
Political system
State power in the country is divided between the ruling head of state and parliament, and the executive is vested in the state minister who heads the Government Council. The legislative branch is represented by the National Council. In 2002, the Constitution was adopted, according to which the Kingdom of Monaco is a hereditary and constitutional monarchy headed by a prince. From 1949 to April 2005, Rainier III Grimaldi ruled the country, after whose death his son, Prince Albert II, ascended the throne. His son, Jacques Honore Rainier, born in 2014, is considered his heir, but his twin sister Gabriella Teresa Maria is next in line to the throne.
Today the capital of Monaco is Monte Carlo, and before it, up to 2007, - Monaco-Ville.
City-principality
Modern Monaco is a city-state formed by the merger of several previously isolated from each other settlements... The entire principality is divided into four districts - urban areas:
- Monaco-Ville (Monaco-Ville) - historical center;
- Monte-Carlo (Monte Carlo) - the official capital of Monaco;
- La Condamin (La Condamine) - banking and office center of the country;
- Fontvieille is a new industrial area.
Let's get to know them better.
The resort and port area, the historical center of the principality and the "family nest" of the ruling dynasty of Grimaldi. Monaco-Ville, also called by the locals La Roche (translated from French, roche means "rock"), is picturesquely located on a flat area of a 60-meter cliff. It is here that the Princely Palace (Palais de Monaco) is located, which was originally built in the XIII century as a castle. Only at the end of the 16th - beginning of the 17th century, under Prince Honore II, this defensive structure began to turn into a palace. All military equipment and crenellated towers have been preserved, but the inner chambers have been made more comfortable for living. Later the princes of Grimaldi rebuilt and modernized their residence. The castle-palace acquired its present appearance in the 19th century. In addition to the private chambers of the princely family, in the southern wing of the residence there is a historical archive, which contains not only historical documents, but also collections of coins and stamps that have been issued by the state of Monaco since 1640. The Napoleon Museum and Library are nearby. The palace itself is surrounded by a beautiful park with fountains, and not far from it there is an observation deck, from which the surroundings and the sea are perfectly visible. In front of the Palais de Monaco, there is the main square of Monaco - Palace Square, which attracts many tourists and travelers who want to see the daily changing of the guard of the princely guards, a colorful and unforgettable sight.
Historical heritage
In the northeast of the cliff, there is the Fort Antoine fortress, which today operates an open-air theater. The southern slope of the Monaco cliff is a zoological garden that contains representatives of African and tropical fauna.
There are several museums not far from the Princely Palace, which are related to the history of Monaco. The capital country has a rich history and many rare exhibits that can be seen in the Wax Museum or in the Musée du Vieux Monaco (Museum of Old Monaco). In the Monaco-Ville area, there is a functioning Cathedral, which is the burial vault of all princes and their family members. It is here that Grace Kelly, the wife of Prince Rainier III and the mother of today's reigning Albert II, who was a popular Hollywood actress at the time, rests.
Monte Carlo
Mount Karla is the name of the most fashionable and expensive area of Monaco, named after Prince Charles III of Grimaldi. It was his decision to open a large casino and permission for its construction, issued by François Blanc, that saved the country's economy and led to the fact that the city of Monaco became the world capital of gambling and luxury.
This most important district of the principality is located just 18 km from Nice airport and borders in the south with La Condamine, and in the north with the French town of Tenao. Since 2007, the capital of Monaco is located in Monte Carlo. However, in addition to its capital status, this region is known throughout the world as the most expensive, refined and prestigious resort in the world. It gained such fame thanks to its casinos, beautiful beaches, the Monte Carlo rally and the Grand Prix circuit in Formula 1 car races.
The most important building here is the casino, the first building of which was opened in 1862. After the fire, only the game room remained from it, which, as a result of restoration work, turned into a lobby. The architect of the second building of the Casino was the architect Charles Garnier, the author of the building of the Parisian Grand Opera. In 1878, a beautiful complex was rebuilt, which, in addition to the casino, includes a cabaret and an opera house, more often called the Garnier Hall. Sarah Bernhardt herself opened opera in Monaco in 1897.
The area surrounding the casino is called the "golden mile" not only because of the huge money left in gambling houses, but also because boutiques of the most famous and expensive world brands such as Hermes, Dior, Cartier and others are concentrated here.
La Condamine
This district is located between the cliffs of Monte Carlo and Monaco, in a small cove. La Condamine is the office and business center of the principality, where most of the population of Monaco lives. There is also a railway station and the main port of the country, a national library, and a shipyard. In addition, the area is home to a flour mill and a brewery, a garment and weaving factories, a souvenir production and a printing house. The most famous sights of La Condamine are the Church of Saint Devote, patroness of Monaco, the pedestrian street Rue Princesse-Caroline, the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology, the Market and the Jardin-Exotic Park, which contains a collection of more than 7000 cacti of different types.
Fontvieille
The youngest region is located in the west of the principality, and its entire coastal part is a territory reclaimed from the sea, artificially reclaimed. In Fontvieille there are enterprises of the most lucrative industrial sectors: precision instrumentation and electronics, electrical and chemical; production of faience, majolica and ceramics. It is in this area that a giant sports center with an underground pool is built - the Stadium named after Prince Louis II.
Another modern landmark in Fontvieille is the large Commerce Center, where you can find everything from pizzerias to antique cars. It is here that the collection of classic vintage cars of the Prince of Monaco is exhibited. Not far from this center is the Maritime Museum, which contains hundreds of models of various ships. The green oasis of Fontvieille is a landscape park that has recently been restored and renovated with the Princess Grace Rose Garden, established in 1984 to commemorate her.
"Key to the City" is a series of guides to city-states that live by their own laws, are proud of their own heroes, celebrate and dress in mourning inappropriately with the rest of the world. Three materials are dedicated to Monaco - the city of millionaires, Macau - the Chinese copy of Porto and Melilla - the exclave of Spain in Morocco, built by a student of Gaudí. The special project was prepared with the support of the urban planning company "A101 DEVELOPMENT".
It is hard to believe that today, in some country of the world, newspaper editorials and the main pages of news sites gossip about guests of charity receptions, are touched by everyday events in the life of the princely family and make noise about the latest results of the local football club. But nevertheless, such a country exists - this is the principality of Monaco. The tiny city-state is considered to be synonymous with luxurious life: for many decades, wealthy people from all over the world have come to Monaco for the weekend to play fortunes in casinos, to travel around Cote d'Azur in a convertible and wash down the dishes of Michelin chefs with collectible champagne.
Building Boom
In addition to cinematic landscapes and an ideal climate with 300 days of sunshine a year, businessmen in Monaco are attracted by a specific tax system. Citizens here do not pay income tax, and the city-state collects taxes on the activities of foreign companies and resident entrepreneurs at a preferential rate. It is because of this that at the beginning of the 20th century, almost immediately after Monaco gained independence, financiers, bankers and industrialists with all their capital flooded here.
The population of the country began to arrive before our very eyes, and with it the income of the principality grew. However, there is no sky without a cloud. Monaco is called a dwarf state for a reason - its area is only two square kilometers (half the size of New York's Central Park). It is not hard to guess that after the influx of people wishing to become subjects of Monaco, the land suitable for construction became less and less. So a real construction boom began in Monaco - here and there multi-storey residential and office buildings made of glass and concrete began to grow.
The profitability from the construction of skyscrapers in Monaco is 100 percent, so construction in the principality does not stop for a single day. Living space here, despite the highest prices in the world (one square meter costs 17 thousand euros on average!), Is literally insanely popular. Apartments in new buildings in Monaco are considered a profitable investment of money and never stand idle while waiting for a buyer. However, very often no one lives in the purchased apartments for years - in this sense, Monaco can be called a country of empty houses.
Who lives in a microtown
Thanks to the attraction of foreign capital and active construction, Monaco is one of the most densely populated countries on the planet - almost 36 thousand people live in the principality. About half of them are French, a quarter are the indigenous population of Monaco, Monegasques, and the rest of the inhabitants represent 125 different nationalities. Despite the fact that Russians are not numerous here, Russian names are often heard in Monaco. In the 2000s, residents of Rublevka, or rather, their wives, organized countless balls and parties in the principality, investor Dmitry Rybolovlev bought the Monaco football club in 2011, and Abramovich's yacht does not fit into the principality's small harbor with enviable consistency.
Casino Monte Carlo
Today the city-state is divided into ten small districts, and the local authorities plan to build an 11th on the drained sea areas. But the whole social life in Monaco, by and large, revolves around two buildings: the palace in the old city, where the prince of Monaco lives with his wife, and the famous casino, which is located in the Monte Carlo area.
It was the casino that at one time brought the principality its fame and wealth. In the middle of the 19th century, entrepreneur François Blanc opened a gambling house on the rocky cliffs of Monaco, around which the city of Monte Carlo quickly grew with its gardens, beaches, hotels, seaport and railway. Since card games and roulette were banned in many other countries around the world, and Las Vegas in its current form did not exist at all, the casino in Monaco quickly became the favorite vacation spot of many world famous rich people. Coming here, they left six-figure sums in hotels, restaurants and casinos - the income from the gambling business augmented the state budget of Monaco.
Today Monaco exists mainly due to tourism, construction and a large number of foreign resident companies. Gambling brings in far less revenue for Monaco than in the old days, although casinos certainly hold enormous symbolic significance for a country of big money.
Transport networks of Monaco
The road to Monaco costs only 1.5 euros - this is how much a bus trip from neighboring Nice costs. A train ticket will cost a little more - 4 euros, but this is a great reason to visit the Monaco train station. The railway station, along with the princely palace and the Jacques Yves Cousteau Museum of Oceanology, is considered one of the main attractions of the principality - it was built in a rock on a hill, its halls are decorated with white marble, and special lighting creates the effect of a golden glow. You can leave the station in two opposite directions - to the old town or to the casino area.
Monaco is a small but multilevel country. For the convenience of pedestrians, seven escalators-lifts were built here, on which you can go up from the embankment to the old city. You can also get around Monaco by bus. There are only three intracity routes, they run according to a strict schedule and quite rarely - about once every half an hour. There are five tourist routes in Monaco. A daily pass will cost 3.5 euros, for which you can see all the most interesting places country.
Of course, the most convenient way to get around Monaco is by car. The city-state is equally famous for its beautiful roads and the luxurious cars that drive along them, and not only during the Formula 1 car race. However, the roads of Monaco are famous not only for beautiful views, but also for steep serpentines. On one of them, having lost control of the car, the tenth princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly, died: the car in which the princess and her daughter were, fell off a cliff.
Grace Kelly
American actress Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier III of Monaco met at the Cannes Film Festival in 1955 and exchanged love letters for a year, after which Rainier went to Philadelphia to ask Grace's hand and heart from her parents. A couple of weeks later, a solemn wedding ceremony took place in Monaco, which turned the Queen of Hollywood into the Princess of Monaco.
The residents of the principality did not take long to fall in love with Grace Kelly: she always looked great, was well brought up and shone at social events, was engaged in charity work, and during her outings to the people, anyone could shake her hand. In addition, her worldwide fame led to the second wave of Monaco's popularity, where rich people finally began to come not only for the sake of casinos and yacht clubs.
In September 1982, Grace Kelly, who always drove with a personal driver, decided to get behind the wheel of the car herself under the pretext of a serious conversation with her daughter Stephanie. All the way the princess complained of a migraine, then exclaimed that she could not see anything and confused the brake with gas, sending the car down the cliff. The day after the accident, Grace Kelly passed away. Members of the royal families, famous film actors and representatives of foreign governments came to say goodbye to the princess. The streets of Monaco were full of mourning residents, and about 100 million more spectators watched the funeral on TV.
Many years have passed since the death of Grace Kelly, but the people of Monaco and the rest of the world still remember her dedication and kindness. One of the main streets of the principality is named in her honor, and thousands of tourists visit the princess's grave in the Grimaldi family crypt every year.
JSC "A101 Development" is implementing in New Moscow the largest urban development project in Russia "A101" - the unification of residential areas of different architectural design with the general concept of an ideal place to live.
