Monaco

File:Monaco National Anthem.ogg

Raniero I de Mónaco

Italia 1494-it

County of nice

Monegasque Revolution

Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace

Monaco, officially the Principality of Monaco (French: Principauté de Monaco), is a sovereign city-state, country, and microstate on the French Riviera in Western Europe. It is bordered by France to the north, east, and west, and the Mediterranean Sea to the south. Monaco is about 15 km from the state border with Italy. With an area of 2.02 square kilometers, it is the second smallest country in the world after the Vatican City. However, Monaco is the most densely populated country in the world. The country has a population of about 38,000 people. Monaco is known for its upscale casinos, yacht-lined harbor, and the prestigious Grand Prix motor race that runs through Monaco's streets annually.

History

The area now known as Monaco was first inhabited by the Ligurians, a prehistoric tribe. The history of Monaco begins in the 6th century BC when the Greeks founded a colony nearby. In the 1191, the Holy Roman Empire granted sovereignty over the area to the city of Genoa, the beginning of the Grimaldi family reign in 1297 when they acquired Monaco through political and military maneuvering. The Grimaldis have ruled Monaco, with brief interruptions, ever since.

Government

Monaco is a constitutional monarchy with the Prince of Monaco as the head of state. The constitution of Monaco, first adopted in 1911, establishes the framework for the principality's government. The Prince's Palace of Monaco is the official residence of the sovereign prince. The nationality law outlines the methods by which one may obtain Monegasque citizenship. The government operates under a form of constitutional monarchy, where the Prince shares his veto power with the National Council.

Economy

Monaco has a high-income economy, primarily driven by tourism, gambling, and banking. Its GDP per capita is among the highest in the world, supported by the absence of a personal income tax which attracts wealthy residents from across the globe. The economy also benefits from its status as a luxury tourist destination, with the Monte Carlo Casino and annual Monaco Grand Prix being major attractions.

Culture

Monaco's culture is influenced by its location on the Mediterranean and its luxurious lifestyle. It is known for its major cultural events, such as the Monte Carlo Ballet, the Monaco Grand Prix, and the Monte Carlo Opera. The Oceanographic Museum and the Prince's Palace of Monaco are also significant cultural landmarks.

Geography

Despite its small size, Monaco's geography is quite varied; it includes a rocky section of the Mediterranean coastline and the highest point, the Mont Agel, which is 140 meters above sea level. The country's climate is classified as a Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.

Demographics

The population of Monaco is diverse; with over 120 nationalities represented, the Monegasque (natives of Monaco) are actually a minority in their own country. French is the official language, but Italian, English, and Monégasque are also widely spoken.

Education

Education in Monaco is compulsory for children from ages 6 to 16. The system offers high-quality education, and there are several international schools catering to the diverse population. The International University of Monaco offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in business, finance, and luxury services.

Transport

Due to its small size, transport in Monaco is limited but well-developed. There is no airport in Monaco, but it is served by the nearby Nice Côte d'Azur Airport in France. The country has an efficient public transport system that includes buses and a single railway station, Monaco-Monte Carlo, which is linked to France's network.