Monaco is a dwarf state of rich people. School encyclopedia What country is Monaco located in?

Monaco is a dwarf state and ranks 2nd in area among the smallest countries in the world. Since the 14th century, the principality has been ruled by the Grimaldi dynasty. The country has a colorful past, but today is renowned as the "abode of the high and mighty", where wealthy people enjoy favorable tax conditions.

Map of Monaco. Geographical characteristics

The state of Monaco is located on the shores of the Ligurian Sea in southern Europe. Its area is only 2.02 square meters. km. This number also includes 40 hectares of sea shores that have been drained over the past 20 years. A detailed map of Monaco shows the country in a single urban space with the French commune of Beausoleil. The border between the two states is arbitrary.

The Principality is famous for being home to one of the best casinos in the world. Also in Monaco, on the Monte Carlo city circuit, one of the stages of the Formula 1 race called the Monaco Grand Prix is ​​held.

Another feature of the dwarf state is the privileges of the indigenous population, called Monegasques. They make up a fifth of all residents, have their own spoken language (a mixture of French and Italian) and traditions. Monegasques are considered a titular nation, they are exempt from all taxes and, unlike foreigners, have the right to reside in the historical part of the country.

Monaco on the world map: geography, nature and climate

Usually the state is marked with a small dot somewhere in France, so finding Monaco on the world map is very difficult. The principality is located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, on the land side it is surrounded by the lands of France. The closest major city to Monaco is Nice. The distance between the two resorts is 18 km.

Monaco is located on steep hills Maritime Alps, so the country's topography is rocky and rugged. Mountain slopes protect the coast from northern winds. The highest point of the country's relief is 163 meters. The peak is located on the southern slope of the peak Mont Agel and juts straight out into the sea. The southern location and mountainous terrain give rise to a subtropical climate in these parts. Monaco is characterized by:

• dry and cool summers with an average air temperature of +22–25 degrees;
• rainy and mild winter, during which the air temperature does not drop below +9 degrees;
• During the off-season, unstable weather and lower temperatures are brought by strong winds blowing both from the sea and from the interior of France.

The warm climate and favorable geographical location of the country are attractive factors that force Russian tourists to look for Monaco on a map in Russian.

The principality is dominated by Mediterranean flora: dwarf palms, boxwood, olives, jasmine, oaks, conifers, etc., the mountainous area is covered with evergreen bushes.

• there are no large animals;
• among mammals, small rodents dominate;
• of birds - warblers, larks, mockingbirds;
• there are small reptiles;
• marine life is scarce (fish, shellfish, mammals).

Map of Monaco with cities. Administrative division of the country

In the past, according to the Constitution adopted in 1911, the Principality of Monaco was administratively divided into 3 communes:

• La Condamine;
• Monte Carlo;
• Monaco-Ville.

Those, in turn, were divided into separate regions. 6 years later, amendments were made to the Constitution, as a result of which the principality became one single commune, and the former communes received the status of districts. In the early 1970s, the state was expanded by draining the Mediterranean coast. As a result, the new lands of Fontvieille and Le Portier appeared.

Today there are 4 cities in the principality, the borders of which have merged due to the density of buildings. On the map of Monaco with cities in Russian it is:

1. Monaco-Ville- an ancient city that has preserved its medieval appearance, until 2007 it was the capital of the principality. It is located on a flat area of ​​a high rocky cliff (60 m) extending into the sea.
2. Monte Carlo– cultural and entertainment center, resort area. This affluent and prestigious area is nestled among the Mediterranean cliffs and is home to one of the world's oldest casinos and a Grand Prix racing circuit.
3. La Condamine– a modern business, industrial, port center. Located on the shore of the convenient Hercules Bay.
4. Fontvieille- a modern industrial and port district in the southwest of the country, located on artificial land. It was erected as a result of the creation of an underwater embankment of stone blocks and a concrete dam. It is home to the Louis II multi-sports stadium and the principality's only university.

Just over 35 thousand people live in the dwarf principality. This population density puts Monaco in first place in the ranking of the most densely populated countries in the world.

“A sunny place for dark people” is how Somerset Maugham described Monaco. One can agree with this aphorism of the famous writer, or one can argue. Nobody objects that Monaco is a “sunny place”, and 300 sunny days a year are clear proof of this. But there are some doubts about the “dark people”. Of course, they are in Monaco and there are quite a few of them, but they are not the only ones who come to Monaco! In any case, I would somehow not like to classify myself as one of the “dark people.”

It is known from statistics that Monaco receives about 5 million tourists a year! In this regard, a strange paradox arises. It’s not difficult to calculate how many people have visited there at least over the last 10 years. And even if every tenth person writes a few lines, how many memories, impressions, and photographs should there be! Alas, for some reason this is not in such expected quantities. There is not even such a country in “Zagranitsa”, and this gap urgently needs to be filled. Moreover, Monaco deserves it. Since childhood, I had a dream to see with my own eyes the smallest states in Europe. First I visited the Vatican, then I managed to visit San Marino, and only now, after another conference in France, it was my turn to Monaco. Everyone has their own motives - some go to Monaco to play in a casino, some are attracted by Formula 1 racing, and some want to look at a beautiful life and make sure that this is possible not only in the movies. You can join the powers that be, be among luxury yachts, sparkling Rolls-Royces, casinos and luxury hotels where famous personalities and the financial elite “nest”. My desire was much more modest. Besides my childhood fascination with stamps and coins, I really love the sea and everything connected with it. That is why, when I read and watched films about the voyages of Jacques-Yves Cousteau, I always imagined the Oceanographic Museum in Monaco, where he brought all his interesting finds. For 30 years, the world's most famous explorer of the deep sea was the permanent director of the museum. This was probably the main driving motive for me.

On the Internet I found a quote from Andersen’s fairy tale, which perfectly answers my own question about why Monaco is not given due attention: “My state is small, but through a magnifying glass it is very clearly visible on the map.” So, if you look through a magnifying glass at a map of Monaco, then on its territory of 190 hectares (of which 40 hectares have recently been reclaimed from the sea), you can see as many as four cities: Monaco - the capital of the principality, Monte Carlo, La Condamine and the new Fontvieille area. Moreover, each of them is famous in its own way!

One day is enough to leisurely walk around the entire principality along, across and diagonally many times, but a month is not enough to examine everything in detail, to become imbued with its romantic spirit, and to get acquainted with its rich history.

The history of the principality is well known. Even Virgil in his poems mentioned this land as “an impregnable fortress, a quiet port, sheltered from all winds.” The restless Julius Caesar gathered his fleet here, preparing for war with Pompey. In the 13th century, when these lands were under the rule of the Genoese, Francois Grimaldi managed to take possession of the impregnable fortress of Monaco. Disguised as a priest, he entered the fortress, managed to lull the vigilance of the Genoese guards and open the gates of the fortress, already besieged by his army. Since then, for seven centuries, the throne of Monaco has been invariably passed on to the descendants of the Grimaldi family. This is an indispensable condition for the very existence of the principality: according to the treaty of 1815, the end of the dynasty means the immediate entry of France into possession of the territory of the principality.

So far this has not happened, and we are traveling from neighboring France to the sovereign state of Monaco. We previously left the car in Nice, as we had heard about big problems with parking in the most densely populated country in the world, and to be on the safe side, we took the train. Monaco is only 30 minutes from Nice, no documents are required, there is no customs or passport control. I remember when I went from Italy to San Marino, there was a border there, and there were border guards for appearances. Besides the Italian one, no other special visa was required to enter the country, but if you really asked them and paid 1 dollar, then at the border they would put a San Marino visa in the passport for exotic things, but in Monaco there is nothing like that, it’s even a shame. The train stopped in a tunnel resembling a subway station. There is also information here where, in English, French, Italian and Spanish, they will kindly explain to you what the main attractions you need to see in Monaco, provide you with detailed maps and wish you a pleasant trip.

Monaco

Coming out of the tunnel, we find ourselves in the capital of the country - the city Monaco where he lives
only about 3 thousand inhabitants! The city is picturesquely located on the leveled surface of a rocky outcrop of the Maritime Alps, and is lined with ancient buildings. The views around are stunning - mountains and cliffs on one side, and the exceptional blue sea on the other! We immediately saw Monte Carlo - even if this is your first time in Monaco, you will certainly recognize the famous casino. But for some reason we didn’t notice Condamine, since we didn’t yet know that the central part of Monaco with a beautiful port is the main city of the principality.

View from the capital of Monaco to the city of Condomin (the central part with the port), smoothly turning into Monte Carlo, with the famous casino on the right side of the photo.

I don’t know if there is public transport in Monaco (probably there is), but there is no need for it to get to know the country. The whole country is an open-air museum, and you can walk around Monaco in a couple of hours, so it's better to enjoy the walk, which is what we did. There are tunnels cut into the rocks everywhere - both horizontal for roads and vertical for pedestrians. These pedestrian tunnels with elevators can in a certain sense be compared to our subway. People living here have to “inhabit” the stone space. They house shops, restaurants, and newspaper shops. The city itself is in some places completely ordinary, and in others it resembles a model of an ideal place to live, where pedestrian paths are laid between houses in thickets of exotic greenery.

The main attraction of the city of Monaco is the Prince's Palace, built on the site of a fortress erected in 1215 right on the top of the cliff. Today it serves as the official residence of the ruling Grimaldi family.

Prince's Palace of Monaco

The square in front of the Palace is surrounded by a battery of cannons cast in the era of Louis XIV.

Monaco has its own army - according to the latest data, 82 people. One of them is guarding the palace!

Monaco's army is coming! Every day at 11.55 there is a changing of the Palace guard, which is performed by carabinieri in full ceremonial uniform. The ritual of changing the guard has not changed for centuries.

Brave guardsmen

Monaco also has its own military orchestra. The number of military bands (85 people) is three more than the number of Monaco's army (82)!

Closing chords of the changing of the guard

From the Prince's Palace of Monaco you can clearly see the port and Monte Carlo beyond. The building with the green roof is a casino.

From above, Monaco appears as a group of tall multi-storey buildings near the blue sea. The entire coastal part of this area is an artificially created alluvial territory.

Monaco has a lot of beautiful and amazing things. First of all, it is the turquoise color of the sea and lush vegetation, palm trees on the city streets and cleanliness all around.

There are many snow-white yachts parked near the azure surface of the water (wealthy townspeople are the rule, not the exception here).

Monaco Cathedral

The main cathedral of the Principality of Monaco was built in 1875 from white stone. The cathedral stands on the site of an older church from the 13th century. The princes of Monaco, their wives and daughters are buried in the Cathedral.

Almost immediately behind the cathedral, the Oceanographic Museum appeared before our eyes - another attraction and pride of Monaco

“The Oceanographic Museum of Monaco looks like a majestic frigate at eternal rest - a frigate storing in its holds all the treasures of all the depths. And I built it as a guarantee of the union and cooperation of all scientists from all countries of the world,” said Albert I (1848-1922) about his brainchild. .

A passionate lover of marine science, traveler and philanthropist, Albert left behind not statues and memorials in his honor, not palaces and estates (although, of course, his descendants have plenty of this stuff), but a public castle on the top of a cliff - the Monaco Oceanographic Museum . The first in Europe and to this day one of the most popular, it reveals the riches and paradoxes of the Neptune element to everyone who wishes. The most curious specimens of sea shells and corals, collections of navigational instruments, ship models and sea charts he collected formed the basis of the museum’s exhibition. In honor of its permanent leader for 30 years, the museum was named Jacques-Yves Cousteau. Currently, the museum is one of the largest centers for research of the World Ocean.

One of the first deep-sea vehicles Jacques Cousteau

On the underground floors of the museum there are numerous aquariums that contain underwater inhabitants. The Marinarium, where almost 4,000 fish and marine animals from almost all seas and oceans live in 90 seawater pools, makes a stunning impression on both children and adults. You can spend hours admiring the huge turtles, graceful sharks, scary moray eels and colorful fish, as well as the exceptionally beautiful corals of the tropical seas.

Aquarium of the Oceanographic Museum

From the observation deck of the museum there is an amazing panorama of the principality, the surrounding mountains and the entire Ligurian coast up to the Italian Riviera.

Condamine(La Condamine)

The Condamine district arose on the site of the old port in the Bay of Hercules, almost on the site of the ancient Greek “Heraclos Monoikos” - many buildings here are located on territory reclaimed from the sea. Monaco's business life is concentrated in this area; the main shopping districts are located here. La Condamine is an area of ​​the port, banks, shops, hotels, representative offices of companies and corporations, enterprises, hotels and beaches.

One of the streets of La Condamine.

If the capital is associated primarily with the Prince's Palace and the Oceanographic Museum, then La Condamine is, of course, with Formula 1. The main tracks of the Monaco Grand Prix are concentrated here. The Condamine - Monte Carlo ring road meanders in a dizzying serpentine through cramped urban labyrinths; it is the shortest (3.5 km) and recognized as the most dangerous in the world. “The Devil's Carousel”, “the race of a thousand turns” - this is how its participants dubbed the competition. At breakneck speed, they have to negotiate numerous 90-degree turns and even 180-degree hairpins.

Along the route you can see monuments to legendary racers and their cars.

Formula 1

For anyone interested in cars, an exhibition of the personal collection of classic cars of His Highness the Prince of Monaco is open in Monaco. The exhibition includes more than a hundred cars and leaves a strong impression.

Such cars are not uncommon in Monaco. In the absence of competitions, you can easily ride a Ferrari.

Monaco, unlike Nice, has wonderful sandy beaches. However, if you are too lazy to go to the beach, you can swim in the pool, which is located next to the embankment in the very center of the Condominium. The water in the pool is as blue and clean as the sea, and you can sunbathe as you like!

View from the embankment. Free people in a free country.

Monte Carlo

Monte Carlo was officially founded in 1866. It houses a world-famous casino, hotels, branches of banks and concerns, beaches with swimming pools and baths, an opera house, the National Museum of Fine Arts with paintings by Renaissance masters, a philharmonic orchestra, etc.

It seems that there are no everyday life in Monte Carlo - it’s one big holiday!

The city is, indeed, entirely intended for entertainment. Parks, restaurants, cafes and bars open around the clock, and most importantly, of course, the casino!

The main entrance to the Monte Carlo casino (Casino du Monte Carlo)

The first gambling house in Europe, one of the oldest and most respectable casinos in the world has a rich history and cultural traditions. The first casino building was opened in 1862, but soon almost completely burned down in a fire, leaving only the gaming room, which after restoration was turned into a lobby through which every visitor must pass. The architect of the second Casino building was Charles Garnier, the author of the Opera building in Paris. In 1878, Garnier built a magnificent palace, which housed a casino and an opera house. This is what the casino building looks like, located on the square of the same name.

The center of social life of the Principality of Monaco is Place du Casino.

The casino complex in Monte Carlo is a kind of European Las Vegas, lighting up the lights of its numerous gambling houses every evening. Over its long history, the casino has been visited by the English King Edward VII and Sir Winston Churchill, the Egyptian King and hundreds of other celebrities. And one can only guess about what human tragedies played out under the luxurious arches of this abode of excitement. Naturally, everyone who comes to Monaco wants, if not to play, then at least to take a look (and it’s better not only from the outside, but also from the inside) at such a famous place.

Entrance to the casino is conditionally free. Anyone (with the exception of children) can enter the casino and feel its atmosphere. Photo and film cameras are not allowed, so it is not possible to show pictures from the inside.

The casino consists of several halls that are immersed in luxury. The walls of all salons are hung with paintings. The Opera House, called the Salle Garnier, is the most beautiful of all the halls of the Casino. It is second only in size to the Paris Opera.

In the depths of the palace there are closed halls for the privileged public. To get to the roulette table, firstly, you need to show your passport, secondly, buy an entrance ticket for 10 Euros, and thirdly, you need to look the part - there is a dress code, and you won’t be allowed in in shorts or a mini skirt. But the “one-armed bandits” who stand in large numbers at the entrance to the casino are open to everyone. It was interesting for me to watch how naive (or gambling) players threw their money into the machines and pulled the handle in the hope that a golden shower would now fall! But there was no rain, the weather in the casino was just as sunny (as in Monaco 300 days a year!), and during the 30 minutes of waiting I was not able to see a single lucky winner.

They say that in the history of Monte Carlo there was only one case when the casino had to return the amount lost here. Many years ago there was a foreign warship in the port of Monaco. A certain naval officer of not the last rank from this ship managed to lose the entire ship's treasury in a casino. For him it was a matter of life or death. But before putting a bullet in his forehead, he decided to make one last desperate attempt: the ship stood in the roadstead exactly opposite the casino and turned the barrels of all the ship’s guns in its direction. At the same time, the manager was given an ultimatum: either return the money or be blown up. The manager had no choice but to choose the first.

A photo to remember your visit to the casino

On Casino Square next to the gambling building there is another celebrity - the fashionable Monte Carlo hotel - "Hotel de Paris". Once upon a time, Prince Yusupov, Count Shuvalov, Princess Vorontsova-Dashkova, the great princes of the House of Romanov met here, and even today there are few places where you can find so many diamonds inside, and luxurious Rolls-Royces outside, as in this place.

View from the casino at the "Hotel de Paris".

"Hotel de Paris".

Monaco is the land of Rolls-Royces. They wait for their owners everywhere - in front of the hotel entrance, at restaurants, in front of the casino.

There are also such cars in Monaco - not very prestigious, but convenient!

The casino is the symbol of Monte Carlo. His reflection is visible everywhere, in mirrors and lampposts.

So the short walk through the Principality of Monaco has come to an end. It’s always sad to part with the places you like, but the impressions of one day spent in the Principality of Monaco will last a lifetime!

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

Main article: History of Monaco

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.

Widespread interest in Monaco was aroused by the wedding in 1956 of the then ruler Prince Rainier III (acceded to the throne in) with Hollywood actress Grace Kelly. Rainier also launched active construction in Monaco.

State structure

Main article: Political structure of Monaco

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 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: “Halle 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 (Lycée Albert I) and one lyceum that provides education in the tourism sector. 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 institution in Monaco - the International Institute of Monaco.

Various questions

• Telecommunications in Monaco
• Relations with France

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:

Monaco is the only state in the world where the military band outnumbers the army.

And it's not a joke. The army in Monaco has 82 people, while the military band has 85 people. The only city smaller than Monaco is the Vatican. But the Vatican is a special state; its sovereignty is not independent, but stems from the sovereignty of the Holy See.
But despite this, Monaco is one of the most densely populated countries and is widely known for its casino in Monte Carlo. However, there are plenty of other attractions here. Monaco is a significant cultural center. In 1879, the building of the Monte Carlo Opera was built according to the design of the architect Charles Garnier (author of the Paris Opera). They sang here over the years Enrico Caruso, Fyodor Chaliapin, Placido Domingo, Luciano Pavarotti.

In 1911 Sergei Diaghilev founded here Russian ballet under the patronage of Prince Pierre of Monaco. They danced on the stage of the Opera Anna Pavlova, Vaslav Nijinsky, Tamara Karsavina, George Balanchine, Serge Lifar, and later - Rudolf Nureyev, Mikhail Baryshnikov.
The Princess Grace Academy of Classical Dance operates 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.

Every year Monaco hosts the International Circus Festival and Television Festival.
But first, about the history of Monaco, located in the south of Europe on the shores of the Ligurian Sea; on land the country borders with France.

Story

The first to settle in Monaco Phoenicians, this was in the 10th century BC. e. Later the Greeks joined them.
In 1215, the Republic of Genoa founded its colonies and built a fortress on the territory of the principality. The Republic of Genoa was an independent state in Liguria, on the northwestern coast of the Apennine Peninsula.
On January 8, 1297, during the civil war in Genoa, Monaco was occupied 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 (a state that existed in Italy from 1720 to 1861).
On July 18, 1860, Sardinia withdrew its troops from Monaco, ending the protectorate.
In 1865, a casino was opened in Monte Carlo and a customs union with France was created. These events accelerated the economic development of the country.

A famous billionaire made a very large contribution to the economy of Monaco Aristotle Onassis: thanks to his investments, it was possible not only to expand the territory of the principality, to build a port, but also to create an entertainment industry, which made Monaco a rich country, which attracts the entire world elite.
The prince was also involved in active construction in Monaco Rainier III. In 2005, being very ill, he transferred his powers to his son and heir, Prince Albert II, who currently rules the country.

Brief information about the country

Form of government– constitutional dualistic monarchy.
Capital
Largest cities– Monaco, Monaco-Ville, Monte Carlo, Fontvieille, La Candamine. Essentially, they all merged into one city, Monaco.
Head of State- prince.
Chief Executive- Minister of State.
Territory– 2.02 sq. km. Recently, the territory has been expanding due to the drainage of marine areas.
Population– 35,986 people. 47% of the population is French.
State religion- Catholicism. The state guarantees freedom of religion.
Currency– euro.
Administrative division- three communes, which are divided into 10 districts.
Economy- develops mainly due to tourism, gambling, construction of new residences, as well as due to the media covering the life of the princely family.
Climate- subtropical, Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters.

State symbols of Monaco

Flag- is a panel with two equal stripes placed horizontally. Top - stripe red colors, bottom - white.
The flag was adopted in 1881 during the reign of Prince Charles III. The colors of the flag are associated with the colors of the princely family of Grimaldi, whose representatives have ruled the principality since the Middle Ages. At the end of the 18th century, Monaco was annexed by France, but in 1814, after the fall of Napoleon, the rule of the Grimaldi dynasty in Monaco was restored, and the current Monegasque flag appeared at the same time, although it was officially approved only in 1881.
In 1945, the Indonesian government adopted exactly the same flag. This became the reason for a diplomatic conflict: Monaco expressed an official protest, which was rejected due to the fact that the Indonesian flag is more ancient than the flag of Monaco.

Coat of arms Monaco - coat of arms of Prince Albert II of Monaco. The shield is divided diamond-shaped into silver and scarlet. The shield is framed by a chain of the Order of St. Charles, entwined with green oak leaves. The shield is held by monks armed with swords. The mantle is scarlet, trimmed with gold ribbon and lined with ermine fur. The shield is topped with a princely crown. At the bottom of the ribbon is the motto “Deo Juvante” (Latin: “With God’s help”). The armed monks symbolize a real historical event - in 1297, Monaco was conquered by the soldiers of Francesco Grimaldi, dressed in monastic robes. The motto belongs to the Grimaldi dynasty.

Sights of Monaco

Monaco is the official residence of the rulers of Monaco from the Grimaldi family. The palace was originally founded as a Genoese fortress in 1191, then expanded and rebuilt many times. Since the end of the 13th century. The palace belongs to the Genoese family of Grimaldi.
Since the 17th century, when the Grimaldi began to rule as sovereign rulers of Monaco, they had to constantly navigate very unstable diplomatic agreements with their more powerful neighbors. Therefore, instead of luxurious palaces in the Baroque style, as in other European countries, they were built in the form of a fortress. However, this did not stop at the end of the 18th century. The French occupied the palace for 20 years.
The uniqueness of the palace also lies in the fact that it was the only residence of the princes of Monaco for more than seven centuries, and therefore the financial and political position of the Grimaldi house is directly reflected in the architecture.
In 1997, Grimaldi was celebrated at the palace 700 years his reign in Monaco. Currently, the palace is still a princely residence.

Built in 1875, the Monaco Cathedral is completely different from the traditional churches of the time, where gilding, brown-green stucco and pink shades predominate. This cathedral was made of white stone, which destroyed the prevailing stereotypes.
The cathedral is located in the Old Town, on the site of an old church destroyed during the French Revolution. It is located on one of the highest and most beautiful points of the Principality of Monaco. The interior of the cathedral is decorated with paintings by a famous artist Louis Brea.

On Monaco's National Day and religious holidays, services are held at the Cathedral during which the sounds of the organ can be heard. This “divine” musical instrument was installed in the Cathedral in 1976. The Cathedral is also the tomb for the princes of Monaco, their wives and daughters. Representatives of thirty-five generations of the Grimaldi family are buried here. The beloved Princess Grace, who died in a car accident, is also buried in the Cathedral. The altar and pulpit of the cathedral are made of white Carrara marble.

Napoleon Museum

The Napoleon Museum, located in Monaco-Ville, houses items that once belonged to Napoleon I or are in some way connected with his life. Napoleon's family was distantly related to the princely dynasty of Monaco. This museum is also called Museum of Napoleonic memories and collections from the historical archives of the palace.

Louis II, an admirer of imperial France and the life of Napoleon Bonaparte, began collecting the collection. The collection expanded significantly during the reign of Louis II's grandson and his successor, Prince Rainier III, during which time the museum moved to the southern wing of the princely palace. The museum has been open to visitors since 1970.

The museum's collection contains documents that date back to the times of the First Empire: letters and documents dating back to the reign of Napoleon, the period of his conquests and exile. Napoleon Bonaparte's personal belongings are kept here, as well as his religious articles brought from St. Helena. Here is the hat that the emperor wore during the battle of Marengo; red leather Napoleon blotter for the table; the watch he used during the war with Russia; letters signed by Napoleon, etc. The museum contains cannonballs left over from the Battle of Austerlitz; rich collection of weapons.

Among the snuff boxes, watches and clothes are paintings and sculptures dedicated to the French emperor, including busts of Napoleon by the Italian sculptor Antonio Canova And Jean-Antoine Houdon, as well as a bust of Josephine by the court sculptor of Napoleon I, François-Joseph Bosio.

The museum also features exhibits telling the history of Monaco: Monaco's Patent of Independence from 1512, granted by the French King Louis XII, a letter from the French King Louis XIV to His Serene Highness Prince Antoine of Monaco, uniforms of Monaco soldiers from different times, a collection of rare coins, seals and several historical postal marks. The museum also has a room with clothes of Roman emperors.

18th century fortress Fort Antoine

It was erected by Prince Antoine I, a great lover of music. Today this fortress is an open theater.

Oceanographic Museum of Monaco

The Oceanographic Museum with an underground aquarium is a masterpiece of modern architecture. The structure is located almost on a sheer cliff. Founded in 1910 by Prince Albert I. A unique aquarium was created here, in which waters from a hundred seas splash. This is one of the few aquariums in the world where corals grow (they do not take root in captivity).

Palace Square

This is the favorite place for walks for citizens and guests of the city. It is here that you can watch how every day at the same time at the main entrance to the Prince's Palace a ceremonial changing of the guard takes place - a ritual that has remained unchanged throughout the history of the city. A brass band plays during this ceremony.

Tiny Monaco has amazing places where you can escape the city and tourist bustle for a while. One of them is St. Martin's Gardens. The air here is saturated with the aroma of Mediterranean plants, the crowns of ancient trees provide pleasant shade in summer. The picture is complemented by a spectacular view of the Mediterranean Sea.
These gardens with a fabulous view of the sea, in addition to a variety of trees and flowers, house statues, fountains, etc. The gardens are located on the steep slopes of the mountain just behind the building of the Institute of Oceanography. Monaco is probably the only city in Europe where you can move around using an elevator. From the foot of the mountain you can take an elevator to the park St. Martin's Gardens.
This is the first public garden that appeared in the principality during the reign of Prince Honore V in the first half of the 19th century. Small winding paths, a small pond and numerous bronze sculptures, including a monument to Prince Albert I, the founder of the Oceanographic Institute.

Wax Museum of the Princes of Monaco

The museum reflects episodes in the history of the Grimaldi dynasty from the end of the 13th century. until now. The wax figures are life-size, many of them dressed in authentic costumes from various eras. There are 40 characters on 4 stages, the costumes are donated by the dynasty family. Here are the figures of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace with their children: Princess Caroline, Crown Prince Albert and Princess Stephanie.

Known for its wide harbor, it is the main port and business center of the country. Hercules Harbor, or the Port of Monaco, is the largest marina in the Principality of Monaco.

Church of the Holy Virgin

Holy Devota- virgin, martyr of Corsican. She was born in the city of Mariana in Corsica, around 283. The young maiden decided to devote herself to God. By order of a prefect named Barbarian, she was thrown into prison and suffered torture for her faith. Her mouth was crushed, her body was dragged over stones and thorny brambles. The Holy Virgin was martyred in Mariana - she was quartered or stoned.

After the death of the saint, the governor ordered her body to be burned so that it would not become an object of veneration. However, it was saved from the flames by Christians. The saint's body was placed on a ship bound for Africa. But a storm overtook the ship, and a dove, flying out of the saint’s mouth, led him to the place where Le Gomat is now located, part of the Principality of Monaco, where even then there was a chapel of St. George.
Her tortured body was found by fishermen. In honor of the saint, a chapel was built in Monaco, which still exists today. On Saint's Day of Remembrance, January 27, flowers bloom around her. The Chapel of Sainte-Devote is first mentioned around 1070 as belonging to the monastery of Saint-Pont.

Maritime Museum

The museum's collection contains more than two hundred and fifty exhibits that in one way or another are related to the sea. Here you can see models of famous ships, among which you can find exhibits from the private collection of Prince Rainier III.
A dental surgeon also took an active part in the creation of the Monaco Maritime Museum Pallanza. He was in love with the sea and during his service and sailing the seas with his own hands he created more than one and a half hundred magnificent ship models. In 1990, the ceremonial transfer of the models made by Pallanza to the Monaco administration took place. This event was the beginning of the museum. Prince Rainier III began its creation; he allocated a room to house a collection of Pallanza models, and subsequently the prince enlarged it with exhibits from his own collection.
The sea played an important role in the fate and history of the principality. The Grimaldi family fought against Saracen pirates for many centuries. In the middle of the 14th century. Grimaldi's ships took part in the Battle of Crecy on the side of Philip VI against the British. During World War II, Monaco's navy defended France's borders from attacks by Nazi Germany. The ship models presented in the Maritime Museum are perfect copies of natural ships in a reduced size.

Prince Rainier III Old Car Museum

This is one of the most visited museums in Monaco after the Oceanographic Museum. Prince Rainier III was a passionate car enthusiast. For 30 years he collected a collection of vintage car brands. It is presented in his personal museum.
The unusual collection of Prince Rainier III includes about 100 models that represent different eras. There are also six carriages with the coat of arms of the princely family.
Prince Rainier's first acquisition was a De-Dion-Bouton car, which was assembled in 1903. Then he bought a Renault Torpedo, produced in 1911. The collection includes exhibits from the companies Peugeot, Citroen, and Lincoln. , Packard, as well as American brands Cadillac 1953, Chrysler Imperial 1956
Several cars represent prestigious models from Maserati, Rolls-Royce, Mercedes and Jaguar. There is also an old London taxi that Princess Grace once rode in.
The cars are placed in a large, specially equipped room, which overlooks the port of Fontvieille.

Park "Jardine Exotic"

The Jardin Exotic Park is located on a mountain slope and is home to more than 7 thousand species of cacti and many other tropical plants. At the base of the slope there is a grotto with artificial lighting; inside you can see stalactites and stalagmites.

Rally "Monte Carlo"

The rally race is organized by the Automobile Club of Monaco. The stage takes place along the French Riviera in the Principality of Monaco and south-eastern France. Since its creation in 1911 by Prince Albert I, this complex stage has been considered a testing ground for improvements and innovations in the automotive industry. Victory in this rally brings glory and honor to the automaker. From 1973 to 2008 The Monte Carlo Rally was a stage of the World Rally Championship, and since 2009 it has been included in the International Rally Challenge (IRC) calendar. The road surface varies from section to section (dry asphalt, wet asphalt, snow and ice), so the correct choice of tires plays an important role in the race. This rally features beautiful and varied sections. The route is full of steep and narrow mountain roads with many hairpin turns. The Monte Carlo Rally has 2 night stages.

Formula 1 Grand Prix

The Monaco Grand Prix is ​​a Formula 1 race on the Monte Carlo circuit in the Principality of Monaco. Held from the first World Championship in 1950 to the present (was not included in the 1951-1954 championship). From 1929 to 1948, before the advent of Formula 1, the Monaco Grand Prix motor racing was held as an independent sporting event. The Monaco Grand Prix is ​​considered one of the most prestigious races in the Formula 1 championship.

one of the smallest states in the world. Located in southern Europe, on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. includes the merged arrondissements of Monaco, Monte Carlo, La Condamine and Fontvieille.

State of Monaco it is not only a resort pearl of the Mediterranean Sea, but also a well-known tourist center. It should be noted that the country is one of the smallest states in the world in terms of area (Monaco is second only to the Vatican). The territory occupied by the principality is 1.95 square meters. km., translated into hectares equals 200 of which a fifth was reclaimed from the sea. But soon, thanks to the project being developed, the territory of the principality will increase by almost 300 thousand square meters. m due to the construction of an artificial peninsula.

The Principality borders on countries such as,. The border between France and Monaco is virtual, as border posts and outposts give way to flower pots and road signs (sometimes they only point to a nominal border).

Story

The appearance of the first settlements in this area dates back to 3000 years ago. This is where the name of the country comes from. According to one version, this area was then called Monoikos, which comes from “Portus Monoeci”, mentioned in various legends of the port. According to another version, the area got its name from the temple built by the Greeks in honor of Hercules - “Heraklos Monoikos”, which translated means “The only Hercules”.

In these places in 43 BC. the great Caesar gathered his fleet awaiting the arrival of Pompey from Illyria.

Modern Principality of Monaco

Modern Monaco is a merged city-district: Monaco-Ville (the old city, also has the second name “Le Rocher” (“the rock”)) is the business part of the country, Monte Carlo, La Codamine (city and port), Fontvielle (industrial area).

The capital is the city of Monaco with a population of only 3 thousand people, it is located on the Monaco rock, dominating the bay and port. According to 2000 data. Monaco's population was about 31.9 thousand people, of which indigenous people - Monegasques– about 6 thousand or 16%. people, the French - about 13 thousand or 47%, the Italians - about 5 thousand or about 15%, the British - over 1 thousand. And if Monaco ranks second to last in terms of territory, then in terms of population density it ranks first in the world.

A high standard of living and favorable climatic conditions provide a fairly high level of life expectancy (about 75 years for men, 83 years for women). A significant part of the country's population is over 65 years of age (25%). However, with such a high level of life expectancy, Monaco has very little population growth. This is due to the low birth rate. The slight population growth is offset by an influx of immigrants.

Official language is French, but Monegasque, Italian, and English are also common. 95% of believers are Catholics.

Traditional Monegasque housing– Mediterranean type (two-story small stone houses with tiled roofs).

National clothes- pants, leggings, shirt, vest and jacket, neckerchief for men, black wide gathered skirt, white jacket with long sleeves, lilac or blue bodice, colored scarf and white cap for women, it is worn only during festivals and celebrations.

Policy

Monaco is a constitutional hereditary monarchy(principality, in 1997 the 700th anniversary of the ruling Grimaldi dynasty was celebrated). Legislative power belongs to the prince and the National Council (parliament) consisting of 18 deputies. Parliamentary elections are held on the basis of universal suffrage (which is vested in all citizens over 21 years of age) by direct voting under a system of proportional representation for a period of five years. A member of the National Council can only be a Monegasque, born in Monaco and at least 25 years old.

Executive power belongs to the Government Council, headed by the Minister of State (this post, according to tradition, which dates back to 1918, is occupied by a French diplomat, a citizen of France). The Government Council, consisting of seven members, meets at least twice a year. At its meetings, with the participation of the prince, international agreements, applications for citizenship and other state affairs are discussed. According to the 1962 constitution, the prince retains the right to take legislative initiatives, but cannot suspend the operation of the constitution.

All laws are adopted by the National Council; Constitutional amendments require 2/3 approval. 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. In accordance with the treaty concluded with France in 1918, Monaco becomes an autonomous state under the protectorate of France in the event that the throne is unoccupied due to the absence of an heir. Officially, there are no political parties in Monaco; the main political organization is the National Democratic Union.

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. 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.

Economy

In the sphere of economy and production, Monaco is developing in such industries as electronics, electrical engineering, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, precision instrumentation, production of building materials, earthenware, ceramics and majolica. A separate item can be highlighted in trade, the tourism sector and the production of souvenirs. State power is very closely connected with business and exercises strict control over the latter. The government holds monopolies on a number of economic sectors: the sale of tobacco products, the operation of the telephone network and postal services, etc. The government maintains strict control over production. Perhaps there is not a single environmentally polluting production facility in this country. It is not surprising that The “Green Peace” movement was born here.

The Principality issues its own postage stamps, which are highly valued by philatelists around the world.

The preferential tax regime attracts hundreds of international companies to Monaco. Several dozen banks use the territory of Monaco to conduct financial transactions. The budget of the principality is replenished by taxes from banking, tourism, entertainment activities, as well as the sale of stamps. And if you have the idea that the main profit comes from gaming establishments, you are mistaken. Casinos provide the treasury with only 3-4% of all revenues of the principality.

Monegasques are the richest people, almost no one works, because... becomes a millionaire even before birth. Reason: in Monaco, the head of any representative office of any global company must be a citizen of Monaco, i.e. Monegasque, therefore, for every newborn Monegasque there is a queue of hundreds of companies wanting to have him as their director! Can you imagine how much they unfasten them?! And it’s profitable for the company, because the number of millionaires, billionaires and just tourists here is off the charts! Of course, the reader has a question: who works in production and in the service sector. The answer is simple: more than 70% of those working in these industries are from neighboring regions of France and Italy.

Tourism

Being a world center of tourism, Monaco is famous for the abundance of exhibitions and other events held here at both European and international levels. Moreover, every month is significant for some event. For example, in January the International Circus Festival and the Monte Carlo Motor Rally take place, and February in Monaco is known for the International Television Festival. The Rose Ball, the Festival of Contemporary Sculpture, the International Floriculture Competition and much more - all this awaits you in Monaco.

It is also famous for its medical and health centers – thalassotherapy centers. Among the most famous establishments are Le Monte Carlo Sporting Club. The health centers use the latest methods using sea water, the sea climate in combination with original products of marine origin. offer a wide range of wellness treatments: relaxation and hydromassage, aromatherapy and aqua aerobics.

The activities of the crowned family are not limited to financial management. In addition, members of the princely family are active in other areas, such as the patron of the Monte Carlo rally, tennis tournaments, and annual circus and magic festivals. Princess Caroline solemnly opens exhibitions and festivals and organizes charity balls. Largely thanks to her efforts, it was possible to revive the famous ballet seasons of Monte Carlo, at the origins of which Diaghilev himself stood. Her younger sister Stephanie is a patron of the stage and modeling business.