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The smallest independent state in Europe (second only to the Vatican), Monaco, is set on the Mediterranean coast, south of France and is relatively close to the Italian border.
The principality of Monaco is neither exclusively French nor Italian but its unique character can be attributed to a bit of both. This is reflected most vividly in the local dialect known as Monegasque which is a mixture of French and Italian. Italian and French are widely spoken, and English-speaking visitors should have no major problems conversing with the locals.
Backed by the Alpes, Monaco forms a natural amphitheatre of hilly, rugged terrain overlooking the sea.
The principality's mild climate and low rainfall is ideal for outdoor activities such as tennis and golf at Monte Carlo's excellent facilities. The principality also offers facilities for watersports such as water-skiing, parasailing, windsurfing and sailing.
Monaco is divided into four administrative districts, the medieval city of Monaco-ville positioned on the Rock, the legendary Monte Carlo, the seaside residential neighbourhood of La Condamine and Fontevieille which is the principality's light industrial sector.
Some of Monaco's major attractions include the famed casinos of Monte Carlo steeped in mystery and glamour, as well as the palace and state apartments of the royal family.
Car-racing fans from all over the globe annually flock to Monaco for the Monte Carlo Rally as well as the Monaco Grand Prix through the steep and twisting streets of the principality.
Time
Monaco is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Summer time (from the last Sunday in March to the first Sunday in September) is two hours ahead of GMT. It is six hours ahead of USA Eastern Standard Time and nine hours behind Australian Eastern Time.
Tourist Offices
The tourist information office provides a helpful map of the city and for any further information visitors can contact the Direction du Tourisme. The Direction de Tourisme is open between 09:00 and 19:00, Monday to Saturday and 10:00 and 12:00 on Sundays. Additional tourist offices are set up around the principality from mid-June to about mid-September and all have the characteristic green 'i' sign which is short for 'information'. There are also tourist information offices in England and the United States of America.
Visas & Passports
There are no border formalities for visitors entering from France who would have required a valid passport for entering the mainland. The following consulates can be contacted for more information.
Customs
The custom regulations and dutyfree allowances for Monaco are the same as for France.
The following items are permitted duty-free for people over 17 years old, entering from a country outside the EU:
200 cigarettes OR 100 cigarillos OR 50 cigars OR 250 g of tobacco
1 l of spirits of more than 22% OR 2 l of alcohol up to 22%
2 l of wine
50 g of perfume
250 ml of eau de toilette
Other goods to the value of FRF 300.00
The following items are permitted duty-free for people over 17 years old, entering from an EU country:
300 cigarettes OR 150 cigarillos OR 75 cigars OR 400 g of tobacco
1.5 l of spirits of more than 22% OR 3 l of alcohol up to 22%
5 l of wine
75 g of perfume
375 ml of eau de toilette
Other goods to the value of FRF 4,200.00
Prohibited items are gold objects other than personal items of jewellery below 500 g. Television sets (other than portable) require a returnable deposit.
Money
The currency used in Monaco is the French franc (FRF). An easy currency-convertor is available on-line.
Both French and Monegasque coins are in circulation. Monegasque coins are not widely accepted beyond the principality. USD 1.00 is equal to FRF 5.11 and 100 centimes make up FRF 1.00.
Business Hours
The general office hours are from 09:00 to 12:00 and then again from 14:00 to 18:00, Monday to Friday.
Public Holidays
Monaco has 12 public holidays.
Peak Seasons
Monaco is most crowded during the summer months of July and August.
Post & Telecommunications
Telecommunications
Monaco's country code is 3393 and the outgoing international code is 19. Telex and telegram are available at hotels and post offices and some hotels have fax facilities. French or Monegasque phonecards can be used at public telephones and these cards can be bought from post offices, bars or tobacco shops. Phonecards cost FRF 40.00 for 50 units and FRF 96.00 for 120 units.
Postal service
Monaco's main post office is in Monte Carlo, but there is also a post office in Monaco-ville. Postal rates in Monaco is the same as France's rates. Allow 58 days for mail to reach the destination, whether you are sending it or receiving it. Monegasque stamps, the principality's mark of independence, are precious to stamp collectors, but they cannot be used to post mail in mainland France.
Electricity
The standard voltage is 220 V AC (50 Hz). Plugs have two round pins.
Disabled Travellers
The principality has 12 large public lifts (ascenceuns publics) which operate up and down the rugged hillside and most operate between 06:00 and 22:00.
Budget Travel
For students and backpackers, Monaco would be an ideal place to visit, but it is rather expensive to sleep there. However, there are some backpacker accommodation available. Centre de Jeunesse Princesse Stephanie (tel. 3393508320) is 100 m (328 mft) up the hill from the train station. In summer one should arrive before 09:00 if you want to be guaranteed a bed for the night. One can also enjoy breakfast at this centre. Reservations are accepted provided that it is off season and only admits foreign students between the ages of 16 and 31. It will be necessary to show some form of identification. The Relais International de le Jeunesse (tel. 3393781858) on the waterfront is a useful option because it is near the train station which is the stop just before Monaco.
History
It is believed that Phoenicans from the eastern Mediterranean most likely settled in Monaco around 700 BC. Monaco was an important trading centre and sheltered ships from other continents in Greek and Roman times. During the 1100's AD, Genoese from northern Italy gained control of Monaco and built its first fort in 1215. In 1308, the Grimaldi clan gained ownership of Monaco and have continued to secure governing rights up to the present day. During the period of 14001600, Monaco was either occupied or ruled by France or Spain.
In 1793, during the French Revolution, France annexed Monaco. Following the Congress of Vienna, it was recovered by the ruling family in 1814 - although the prince at the time preferred Paris over 'dreary old Monaco'.
In 1866, Prince Charles III founded the town of Monte Carlo. A succession of princes secured an absolute monarchy until 1911 when a new constitution was approved by Prince Albert I. Prince Albert, who was also known as the `Scientist Prince' accomplished important marine research and founded the famous Oceanographic Museum of Monaco. Prince Louis II ruled from 19221949 except for during the German occupation of World War II. His grandson, Prince Rainier III, succeeded him and subsequently proclaimed a new constitution in 1962 granting women the right to vote and the abolishment of the death penalty.
In 1963, as a result from pressure from France, Monaco for the first time imposed a tax on business profits. Rainier's expansionist plans included reclaiming land from the sea in order to provide additional beaches and entertainment facilities.
In 1966 Rainier enacted a law which gave the government greater control of the Societe de Bains de Mer (the company which administers the principality's four casinos) ending a long struggle with the prosperous Aristotle Onassis. In 1967, Onassis sold his shares in the company to the Monaco government.
In the early 1900's Monte Carlo, founded by Prince Charles III in 1866, became a popular winter resort amongst wealthy and famous Europeans. Monaco, especially Monte Carlo, has for a century been associated with glamour and intrigue. The marriage of Prince Rainier (at the time, Europe's most eligible bachelor) in 1956 to American film star Grace Kelly enhanced Monaco's legendary status. The couple met when Kelly attended the Cannes Film Festival while promoting the Hitchcock movie she produced with Cary Grant To catch a Thief. Their daughters, Caroline and Stephanie, were born in 1957 and 1965 respectively. However, it was the birth of a mail heir, Albert, in 1958 which was welcomed most by the Monegasques because according to the Treaty signed in 1918, Monaco would become an autonomous state under France should the ruling dynasty become extinct.
Economic Overview
The principality relies heavily on tourism and foreign currency as an economic base - 25% of its revenue comes from tourism alone. Banks, VAT on hotels, industries providing services and the industrial sector provide an additional 50% of Monaco's revenue.
Banking, real estate and insurance have grown rapidly since the removal of the French foreign exchange control in 1987. However, as a result of the decline in the tourism industry and in real estate in the early 90s, the government is promoting Monaco as a conference centre.
Industries include textiles, paper, pharmaceuticals, electronics and plastics and almost all the external trade is conducted with France. Monegasques, who have a relatively high standard of living, do not pay taxes and the principality attracts foreign companies who take advantage of the low taxation.
A consultative organisation dealing with all aspects of the national economy is available for further information:
Conseil Economique
8 Rue Louis Notari
Monte Carlo 98000
Monaco
Government
Katherine Hepburn once called it a 'pimple on the chin of the south of France'. She was of course, referring to the idea of having a small, independent country (1.95 km²) securing some of the most beautiful parts of the coastline along the Riviera. Monaco maintains its independence despite the fact that it is surrounded by France on three sides.
Monaco consists of four administrative districts. The medieval city of Monaco-ville (also known as the 'old city' or Rocher de Monaco) is positioned on a promontory, named the Rock, which is 200 ft (61 m) high and dominates the coast. The Rock is the seat of the royal palace, the government buildings as well as the famous Oceanographic Museum. The legendary Monte Carlo with its famed casino and luxury hotels still remains the centre for the rich and famous. Monaco-ville and Monte Carlo lie north and south respectively of the port and are linked by a complex series of roads. On the west of the bay, La Condemn, the seaside residential neighbourhood between Monaco-Ville and Monte Carlo forms Monaco's harbour and port sector. The district of Fontevieille has been set aside for additional industrial and resendential development.
It is a constitutional monarchy, the prince as chief of state acts as a representative in international affairs, such as the signing of treaties and international agreements with other countries. Under the authority of the prince is the cabinet, as well as minister of state, a Frenchman nominated by the French government who heads the government of Monaco and is assisted by the public works. Presently, Paul Dijoud fulfils the role of Head of Government.
The 18member National council, elected by the citizens of Monaco for a five-year term, forms the legislative body whose approval is needed in order to change the constitution. Three councillors are responsible for finance, police and internal affairs.
The political parties active in Monaco are Campora List lead by Anne Marie Campora and Medecin List lead by JeanLouis Medecin. The National Council is presently made up of 15 members of Campora List, two from Medecin List and one independent member.
Monaco is currently not involved in any international disputes and security is the responsibility of France. The government is planning to boost the property and tourism industry which experienced a decline in the early 90's by promoting the principality as a conference centre.
Prince Rainier has plans to extend the Fontevieille district and wants the principality's banking status to be formalised by the European Union in order to compete with British offshore havens.
Population
Monaco consists of 31,515 people. Native Monegasques form the minority of Monaco's population and the rest is made up of mostly French, as well as Belgians, British, Italians and Americans.
The total population distribution looks as follows:
| French |
47% |
| Italian |
16% |
| Monegasque |
16% |
| Other |
21% |
Language
Most people living in Monaco speak French but the majority of Monegasques converse in a local dialect known as Monegasque (a mixture of French Provençal and Italian Ligurian). English and Italian are also spoken.
Religion
Monaco is a Roman Catholic state (95% of its population is Roman Catholic) and has an Anglican minority.
Art & Culture
Monaco has many interesting cultural sites. These include the home of the royal family, Les Grands Appartements du Palais, place du Palais, and the Palace Museum. Next door to the Palace Museum is the Romanesque-Byzantine Cathedrale de Monaco where the former princes and other members of the royal family are buried Princess Grace is also buried here.
One of Monaco's greatest landmarks is the Oceanographic Museum. It is an impressive building which is situated on the principality's coastline. Monaco's Musee National is also a very interesting attraction and well worth a visit. Monaco also has its own Madame Tussauds wax works museum, the Musee Historial des Princes de Monaco, in which wax figures narrate the history of the royal family.
The Jardin Exotique, also founded by Prince Albert, is famed for its collection of up to 600 varieties of cacti and succulents found normally only in central America or Africa. The ticket will allow you to explore the caves and visit the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology During the summer months visitors can experience openair theatre in a converted 18thcentury fortress, at the Fort Antoine Theatre.
Food & Drink
Restaurants in Monaco offer a wide variety of food of a high standard and excellent service. Most restaurants have cuisine similar to that of France with some local specialities such as barbaguian, a type of pastry filled with rice and pumpkin, and fougasse, a dish of fragrant orange flower water pastries decorated with nuts and aniseed. Other specialities include Stocafi which is dried cod cooked in a tomato sauce, and socca which is chickpea flour pancakes.
Entertainment
Monaco is an entertainment mecca which offers something to everybody you can try your luck at the several casinos or if you are more interested in cultural entertainment you can go to some cabarets, concerts and operas. Other very popular options for an evening out are the wide variety of bars and clubs in Monaco.
Shopping
Monegasques produce perfume, ceramics, hosiery, clothing, shoes, embroidery, jewellery and books. Handmade items can be bought at Boutique du Rocher which is operated by the Princess Grace Foundation, and the Chocalateria de Monaco is a must for all chocolate lovers! For slaves to fashion, creations by innovative French designers can be found at boutiques and fashion houses at the Casino Gardens and the Allees Lumieres building which houses Italian designers.
Parks & Reserves
Monaco doesn't have much wildlife but has an impressive collection of no less than 600 varieties of cacti and succulents found normally only in central America and Africa which can be viewed at the Jardin Exotique.
Climate
Monaco has a relatively mild climate throughout the year. The hottest months are July and August and temperatures rarely exceed 90 °F(32 °C). The coolest months are January and February with an average January temperature of 50 °F(10 °C). Rain falls primarily during the cooler months and it rains on average 60 days a year. Lightweight clothing is required for the summer months and perhaps a warm wrap for cooler evenings. In winter light- to mediumweight clothing will suffice.
Geography
Second to the Vatican, Monaco is the smallest independent state in Europe. Monaco is set on the Mediterranean coast of France just a few miles from the Italian border and is backed by the Alpes - creating a natural amphitheatre overlooking the sea.
Monaco consists of four administrative districts. The medieval city of Monaco-ville (also known as the 'old city' or Rocher de Monaco) is positioned on a promontory, named the Rock, which is 200 ft (61 m) high and dominates the coast. The Rock is the seat of the royal palace, the government buildings as well as the famous Oceanographic Museum. The legendary Monte Carlo with its famed casino and luxury hotels still remains the centre for the rich and famous. Monaco-ville and Monte Carlo lie north and south respectively of the port and are linked by a complex series of roads. On the west of the bay, La Condemn, the seaside residential neighbourhood between Monaco-Ville and Monte Carlo forms Monaco's harbour and port sector. The district of Fontevieille has been set aside for additional industrial and resendential development.
Health
There are no major health hazards for visitors to Monaco, except maybe the danger of overindulging in rich French and Italian cuisine! If you are arriving from an infected area, you have to be inoculated against yellow fever. Rabies is present therefore vaccination for those at high risk is advisable before arrival. Water from the mains in Monaco is normally chlorinated but to prevent possible abdominal upsets, bottled water is advised for the first few weeks of your stay. All dairy products and local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are safe for consumption.
Monaco has a high standard of medical care and you won't have any trouble finding medical assistance, but health insurance is highly recommended.
Safety
Robberies and muggings are quite common on the French Riviera and visitors in particular are likely victims. Take safety precautions by checking your luggage into a hotel before you go sightseeing rather than leaving it in the boot of a car where it can be broken into. You can contact the police at 3393304246. |
