A Guide to Monaco

Monaco is nestled between the French Alps and the Mediterranean Sea on the southern border of France. A relatively comfortable climate makes the country a popular destination throughout the year. The area is rich in history and culture, which you can experience through a variety of historical landmarks, museums and entertainment. However, if you prefer more excitement, you might be more interested in the various night-time entertainment. No matter what you choose to do, Monaco has something for everyone.

History of Monaco

Monaco's history is traced back thousands of years to the primitive people who used the rocky surface of the land as shelter. Cave drawings found in Saint-Martin are proof of the early inhabitants. After them a people known as the Ligures settled the area. One tribe called the Monoikos are thought by some as the reason for the country name, Monaco. Others think the name comes from the Greek god Herakles, who was sometimes referred to as Herakles Monoikos .

In 1215, Monaco was claimed as a colony of Genoa. The House of Grimaldi took control of the land in 1297 and has ruled since that time, except for a brief period from 1789 to 1814 when it was under the control of France. Although Monaco was no longer controlled by France after 1814, Monaco was finally recognized as a sovereign state in 1861 with the signing of the Franco-Monegasque Treaty. A constitution, passed in 1911, took control of the country away from the Prince of Monaco and placed it in the hands of the people and government. The constitution was adjusted in 1962 to add more liberties. France and Monaco have kept and understanding of unified laws, with Monaco following France's lead.

Law, Government, & Economy

Ever since France released Monaco from its control in 1814, France and Monaco have kept up relations. In 1918, several years after Monaco formed its first constitution, the country entered a treaty with France in which Monaco agreed to form laws and governmental ideas that were similar to those of France. It was called the Treaty of Versailles. The constitution, which has been updated since its creation in 1911, gives control of the country to the people through a selected group of individuals. The Prince of Monaco is the Chief of State, with the Minister of State under him. The Minister of State is in charge of government operations, and runs the cabinet, also referred to as the Council of Government. Five members sit on the council and each one is in charge of a particular part of the country's government: internal affairs, external affairs, environmental policies, economy, and health. The Minister is in charge of foreign relations as well as the police.

The judicial system, or courts, are monitored by the Crown Prince and must dispense justice in his name. It is separate from the executive, which is run by the Minister of State; however, both are operated according to the prince's wishes.

A legislative body was formed in 1962, when the constitution was changed . It is made of 24 elected members who represent the country and help form laws. Even though the legislative branch shares responsibilities with the Crown Prince, the prince reserves the right to dissolve the legislature at any time. This branch, called the National Council, would then hold new elections within three months. During the same 1962 constitution change, Monaco abolished capital punishment and gave rights to women.

In 2002, Monaco and France adjusted the treaty from 1918. The changes moved France from a position of Consulate General to a formal embassy, and allowed other countries to establish embassies as well. The treaty added daughters and other family members to the succession to power as the Chief of State that was generally reserved for the Crown Prince.

Monaco's economy is made up primarily of banking and commerce, with a substantial boost from tourism due to the gambling industry. Other important economical boosts come from real estate, services and industry. Taxes are relatively low within the country, drawing in visitors as well as more permanent residents and companies.

Geography & Climate

Monaco's is a small country of approximately 2 square kilometers that's bordered on three sides by France and one by the Mediterranean Sea. The country is divided into four parts: the old city, port area, residence and resort section, and a relatively new part reclaimed from the Mediterranean. The old city, Monaco-Ville, is rocky and extends out into the sea, and there are no inland bodies of water. Most of the country is made of rugged hills. The climate of the country is mild with the coolest temperature reaching only to around 45 degrees farenheit, and the highs up around 80 degrees. Winters are generally damp, and summers are dry.

Sports & Entertainment

Recreational activities in Monaco are varied . Since the country borders the sea, you have a choice of many water sports such as diving, sailing, skiing and windsurfing. For those that prefer land, the Monte Carlo Golf Club has a par 71 course that overlooks the sea, or run the health track or soft track that are open every day. Internationally, Monaco is known for motor sports. Several races are held throughout the year, running vehicles on the winding roads of the Alps or through the streets of Monte Carlo. A few other sports such as tennis, soccer and horse show jumping round out the international sports.

Besides sporting activities, Monaco has several museums and gardens. Visit the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology to find out more about the area hundreds of years before it was colonized , or go to the Oceanographic Museum, which is known world-wide for its work in the marine sciences. Gardens include Princess Antoinette Park, Exotic Gardens and Cave, St. Martin Gardens and a few more. Some, like Princess Antoinette Park, are formal with well-organized paths and groomed planters. Others are more carefree with winding paths and rambling greenery.

If you do not like to tour museums or gardens, then the casinos in Monte Carlo might be more interesting. The gaming facilities have operated for many years and bring tourists into the country year round. While out in the evening, you must check out the night clubs and lounges.

Religion

Monaco, having been originally founded by Italians, is a country made up mainly of Catholics. The official church of Monaco is the Roman Catholic Church, and the country keeps up relations with the Vatican. Even though over 85 percent of the country is Christian based, the rest of the inhabitants make up a range of religions, or lack there of, including atheists, Jews, Muslims and Agnostic. The constitution's protection of religious freedom is why these other religions are found within the country.

Monaco, US Department of State
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