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Monaco
Monaco, officially known as the Principality of Monaco, is a sovereign city-state and microstate in Western Europe. Located on the French Riviera, it forms a semi-enclave bordered by France to the north, east, and west, with the Mediterranean Sea to the south; the Italian region of Liguria lies about 15 km to the east. Covering just 2.03 km² and home to 38,423 people, Monaco is the world’s second-smallest sovereign state after Vatican City, and the most densely populated. It also boasts the shortest national coastline of any non-landlocked country, measuring only 3.83 km.
Monaco is regarded as one of the wealthiest and most expensive places in the world. Its economic growth accelerated in the late 19th century with the opening of the Monte Carlo Casino and the establishment of a rail link to Paris. The principality’s mild climate, scenic setting, and gambling venues helped it gain fame as a luxury tourist destination and leisure hub for the wealthy. Over time, Monaco developed into a major banking centre and expanded into services and small, high-value, non-polluting industries. Known as a tax haven, it levies no personal income tax (except on French citizens) and maintains low business taxes. Today, more than 30% of its residents are millionaires.
Geography and Geology
Monaco is bordered on three sides by France’s Alpes-Maritimes department, with the Mediterranean Sea forming its southern boundary. The principality lies about 16 km from Italy and 13 km northeast of Nice. Covering just 2.1 km² or 208 hectares, and home to around 38,400 people, Monaco is the world’s second-smallest country and the most densely populated. It has a land border of only 5.47 km, a coastline stretching 3.83 km, and a maritime claim extending 22.2 km.
Jurassic limestone forms a significant part of Monaco’s bedrock and is locally karstified. It contains the Grotte de l’Observatoire, a cave that has been open to the public since 1946. The principality’s highest point is standing 164.4 m above sea level. Its lowest point is the Mediterranean Sea.
The Saint-Jean brook, measuring about 0.19 km, is the longest natural watercourse in Monaco, while Fontvieille Lake is the largest, covering around 0.5 ha. Monte Carlo is the most populated quartier, whereas Larvotto/Bas Moulins is the most densely populated ward.
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Monaco Country Map
Monaco lies in both the Northern and Eastern Hemispheres. It is bordered by France to the north, west, and east, while the Mediterranean Sea forms its southern boundary. Monaco, the world’s second-smallest independent state after Vatican City, is characterized by a hilly, rugged, and rocky terrain. The entire country covers an area of just 2.1 sq. km.
Monaco Grand Prix
Monaco hosts the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix, one of the original and most iconic races in the Formula One calendar. Its local motorsports association also lends its name to the Monte Carlo Rally, held each January in the French Alps. Beyond motorsport, the principality is home to AS Monaco, a professional football club competing in France’s Ligue 1, where it has won multiple national championships. Monaco also boasts a top-tier basketball team that competes in the EuroLeague.
Port Hercules
Port Hercules is Monaco’s only deep-water port and has been in use since ancient times. The modern harbour, completed in 1926, underwent major upgrades in the 1970s. Today, it spans nearly 40 acres and can accommodate up to 700 vessels. Situated in the La Condamine district, the port requires harbour pilots for all ships exceeding 30 metres in length. Water depths range from around 7 metres at standard berths to up to 40 metres at the outer piers and cruise ship docks.
Larvotto Beach
Larvotto Beach is Monaco’s main sandy shoreline, combining public and private sections along the principality’s eastern coast. The beach features imported gravel and calm, clear waters sheltered by geotubes. Known for its refined atmosphere, it offers private beach clubs with full services as well as a public area where visitors can enjoy the seaside freely. Redesigned by renowned architect Renzo Piano, the beach includes a modern promenade with dining options, amenities, and a playground, making it a popular spot for both locals and families.
Prince’s Palace of Monaco
The Prince’s Palace of Monaco serves as the official residence of the Sovereign Prince of Monaco. Originally constructed in 1191 as a Genoese fortress, it has endured centuries of conflict, including bombardments and sieges by foreign powers. Since 1297, when the Grimaldi family first seized it, the palace has remained their stronghold and residence. The Grimaldis initially ruled as feudal lords, later becoming sovereign princes in the 17th century, though their authority often depended on delicate arrangements with more powerful neighbouring states.
How To Reach Monaco
The most convenient way to reach Monaco is via Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE), located about 30 km away. From the airport, travelers can continue to Monaco by bus, taxi, or even a quick helicopter transfer. Another option is to arrive by train, with Monaco’s Monte Carlo station providing direct rail connections along the French Riviera.
