The famous principality of Monaco has more than meets the eye
Monaco. a synonyme to luxury, racing and excessive lifestyle – but not only.
This miraculous city-state contains much more inside, all in 2 squared-kilometers of land – which makes it the second smallest country in the world.
The rulers of the principality today is Albert II Grimaldi and his wife and princess Charlene.
But first things first, a little background.
The principality was established in 1297 by the House of Grimaldi from Genoa.
The word “Monaco” relates to the Greek word “Monoikos” – which means “living apart” from others.
Some sources claim it also related to the word “rest” in Canaanite, probably since this location used as a pause station for travelers from across the Mediterranean sea to the rest of Europe.
A town that became an empire
Monaco is a tiny country, but that wasn’t always the case. During the 19th century, prince Charles the III gave away Menton and Roquebrune to the french (around 95% of the land at the time). The aforementioned suffered from heavy taxation by the Grimaldi family. Shortly after that, the principality have cancelled income tax for all its citizens and became a tax haven for foreigners – excluding French.
Being a country without a significant industry or army to protect itself, things were not always bright, to say the list. In fact, until the mid-19th century the people of Monaco have struggled financially.
Interestingly, Monaco’s main language is French, despite the existence of a Monegasque language. Sadly, it is slowly vanishing from the tongues of natives.
Italian is also very popular here, since it is a desirable destination for Italians – both for the taxation policy, lifestyle and culture.
One decision that changed the game
The days of Monaco as a poor country were finished as soon as the famous casino of Monte-Carlo started its activity in 1863.
Opened in a time when gambling was forbidden in France and Italy, not only did the casino saved the small country from bankruptcy – it made Monaco famous for its posh joint. Shortly, businessmen and celebrities from various countries were attracted to the casino.
The other factor that attracted people from all over the world was the marriage of Hollywood’s famous movie star Grace Kelly and prince Albert I.
Mainly, it got the attention of Americans and other celebrities to come and visit, and even have an address there for taxing purposes.
A country without a capital city
Monaco does not have a capitale city, since all of it is defined as a city-state. Its is divided to several quarters as following:
Monte-Carlo
The most popular quarter of the principality. Monte-Carlo (“carlo hill”) holds the name of prince Charles III.
It integrates several iconic landmarks such as the Monte-Carlo Casino, Hotel de Paris, Cafe de Paris, and the Hermitage hotel.
In March 2019, after 4 years of construction, a new shopping & residential area called “One” was created next to the Hotel de Paris.
Monaco-ville
The old town of Monaco is home to the oldest and authentic building of the country.
On this rocky part you will find the prince’s palace, the oceanographic museum and the Saint Nicholas church.
La Condamine
The market area of Monaco. It contains the port of Monaco (“Port Hercules”) as well as a flower market.
In the latter, there are several bistros and food stands.
In the upper part of this area, you will find the famous Exotic Garden.
It shows some exotic plants and trees, as well as a panoramic view over Monaco.
Fontvieille
The newest quarter of the city.
Standing on an artificial land, it contains some small factories, the Louis II stadium, a zoo and the prince’s car collection. This quarter borders with France’s Cap d’Ail from the west.
Larvotto
This area’s charterer goes mainly around its beach clubs and resorts.
This area is home to clubs like Twiga, Sass Cafe and Jimmyz. Near its east border with France lies the Monte-Carlo bay resort, a hotel that features one of the principality’s casinos.
Getting around
Access to Monaco by flight is made exclusively from Nice airport, from which you can take 7-minutes helicopter trip directly to the principality.
Another efficient and beautiful way there is made with the SNCF train that 30 minutes to arrive to the Monaco Monte-Carlo station. Not only it is faster and cheaper than traveling with a car, you will also enjoy the amazing views it passes through.
Once you get to Monaco, there is a big secret that will surly help you moving around town.
We talk about the elevator system that will take you up and down through all the attractive landmarks such as the Casino, the Exotic Gardens, the old town and the port.
Follow the links that will show you the main elevators and electric escalators scattered in Monaco:
Train station to port: https://goo.gl/maps/gL321ZgVeSWjXaaj8
Dam to old town: https://goo.gl/maps/yUUwWeiJfR75JMZ5A
Casino to F1 tunnel: https://goo.gl/maps/UgQZFsuzCxskGYkm9
