Principality of Monaco (dwarf state). Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium. State symbols of Monaco

(French: Principauté de Monaco) - dwarf state, located in southern Europe on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea; on land it borders with France. It is one of the smallest and most densely populated countries in the world. It will take the average person just 56 minutes to walk across the country. The name of the country comes from the ancient Greek “monoikos” - “hermit”. The Principality is widely known for its casino in Monte Carlo and the stage of the Formula 1 championship, the Monaco Grand Prix, held here.

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

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.

On January 8, 1267, during the civil war in Genoa, Monaco was occupied by Francois Grimaldi and his supporters. This date is considered to be the beginning of the reign of the Grimaldi dynasty and the existence independent state 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.

In March 1860, in gratitude for the military assistance provided by the French Emperor Napoleon III to the unification of Italy, the Kingdom of Sardinia ceded Savoy and the County of Nice, including Menton and Roquebrune, to France. On July 18, 1860, Sardinia withdrew its troops from Monaco, thereby ending the protectorate.

In 1865, a casino was opened in Monte Carlo and a customs union was created with France, which significantly boosted the country's economic development.

The first constitution limiting the power of princes was introduced in 1911.

In 1993, Monaco became a full member of the UN.

Widespread interest in Monaco was aroused by the wedding in 1956 of the then ruler Prince Rainier III (acceded to the throne in 1949) with Hollywood actress Grace Kelly. Rainier also launched active construction in Monaco.

On 31 March 2005, Prince Rainier III, being too ill to exercise his powers, transferred them to his only son and heir, Prince Albert. Rainier died on April 6, 2005.

Currently, the son of Rainier III, Prince Albert II, rules after the death of his father in 2005.

State structure

According to the form of government, Monaco is a constitutional monarchy, with some secondary signs of dualism. The head of state is the prince.

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 executive power is represented by the Minister of State (head of government) and the State Council (government) of four people headed by him. The Minister of State is a French citizen who is confirmed by the Prince for a period of 3 years on the proposal of the French government.

Legislative power is divided between the prince and the unicameral National Council (parliament) of 24 members, elected every 5 years on the basis of universal suffrage. In 2002, parliament received the right of legislative initiative (previously it belonged only to the prince). The Council can make amendments to government projects, approves the imposition of taxes. It also ratifies international treaties that change existing domestic legislation.

The judicial branch of government is also headed by the prince; various courts administer justice on his behalf.

Main political organizations: Union for the Principality, National Union for the Future of Monaco, Union for the Development of Monegasque Society, National Democratic Union. The Monaco Trade Union Association has about 5 thousand members.

Geographical position

Monaco is located in southern Europe on the Mediterranean coast near the French Cote d'Azur, 20 km northeast of Nice. On land, the principality borders on France, the Alpes-Maritimes department.

The country's area is 2.02 km² (which is almost double less area Central Park in New York). Length coastline- 4.1 km, length of land borders - 4.4 km. Over the past 20 years, the country's territory has increased by almost 40 hectares due to the drainage of marine areas.

Administrative division Monaco

Administratively, the principality is divided into 3 communes (quartiers), which in turn are divided into 10 districts (wards). The division of the principality into three communes was legalized by the Constitution of Monaco of 1911. Based on the amendment to the Constitution of Monaco of 1917, the principality consists of only one single and indivisible commune, which in turn consists of 10 districts.

Population

As of 2006, the population of Monaco is 35,656 people. The population density is 18,285 people/km². Such a high population density is due to the fact that Monaco is a dwarf state. The annual population growth is 0.386% per year (2007 data). Average life expectancy according to 2008 data is 79.96 years. Women predominate slightly among the population. The ratio of the number of men to the number of women is 0.91 (according to 2004 data). 62% of the population is considered to be of working age. The literacy rate is 99%. National composition:
French - 47%
Monegasques - 16%
Italians - 16%
others - 21%. This large category includes representatives of 125 nationalities.

Religion

The official religion is Catholicism. However, Monaco's constitution guarantees freedom of religion. Monaco has 5 Catholic parish churches and one cathedral, which houses the see of the Archbishop of Monaco. The diocese, which had existed since the mid-nineteenth century, was converted into an archbishop's diocese in 1981.
Anglicanism

Monaco has one Anglican church (St. Paul's Church), located in Monte Carlo. In 2007, there were 135 parishioners who were citizens of Monaco. However, the church serves a larger number of parishioners, mainly tourists. The church also has a library with more than 3,000 books in English.

The Cultural Israeli Organization of Monaco (founded 1948) includes a synagogue, a Jewish school and a kosher grocery store located in Monte Carlo. The community (about 1,500 members) is mainly composed of Jews of retirement age from Britain (40%) and North America.

Economy

Advantages: Promised banking secrecy and low taxes attract billions of dollars from abroad. At the end of the 90s. the volume of funds stored in Monegasque banks had an annual increase of 18%. There is no external debt, foreign exchange reserves are about $ 2 billion. Low unemployment (3%).

Weaknesses: in accordance with the agreement with France, since 1994, suspicious accounts have been disclosed by banks, as has become the case in all other countries. Dependence on economic fluctuations in France and Italy. VAT generates 55% of government revenue. EU requirement to tighten banking and tax legislation. Lack of resources, complete dependence on imports.

The Principality is widely known as tourist centre thanks to the casino and excellent climate: 300 sunny days a year. However, modern Monaco is characterized by a well-developed and diversified economy in which tourism plays an important but not dominant role.

The principality's GDP is estimated at 870 million US dollars (1999). The main sectors of the economy are tourism, construction, pharmaceutical, chemical and electronic industries, banking and financial sectors. The annual turnover of companies registered in the country exceeds 9 billion euros.

The unemployment rate is very low. The total number of jobs - 45,000 - exceeds the number of people in the country. A significant portion of those working in Monaco are foreigners.

The Principality has a very liberal taxation system. Income individuals(both citizens of the country and foreigners permanently residing in Monaco, with the exception of the French) are not subject to taxes.

The Principality has close economic ties with France. The two countries have common customs and financial systems. Monaco depends on imports of French electricity.

Until 2002, Monaco minted its own National currency The Monegasque franc, however, on January 1, 2002, a new currency was introduced in Monaco - the euro. The country received the right to mint its own euro coins with national design on one side of the coin.

Legal system

The legal system of Monaco belongs to the Romano-Germanic legal family and has significant similarities with French law. In a number of areas (insurance, telecommunications, postal services, etc.), French laws directly apply.

The Constitution of Monaco (Article 2) assigns to the Principality the status of a rule-of-law state based on respect for fundamental human rights and freedoms.

Main source civil law— The Civil Code of 1881, which is a version of the French Civil Code of 1804. The Commercial Code of Monaco is also very close to its French counterpart.

The economic legislation of Monaco is aimed at attracting foreign capital to the country by providing super preferential tax regime. There are about 800 international companies and 50 banks operating in the country.

Monaco's labor law generally complies with international standards. Workers are free to organize into trade unions. The Constitution provides for the right to strike in accordance with the law. The law prohibits government employees from striking. The statutory working week is 39 hours.

The main source of criminal law is the Criminal Code of Monaco. The death penalty for all crimes was abolished by the 1962 Constitution (Article 20). The last death penalty took place in 1847.

In legal proceedings, with some exceptions, French law also prevails. According to the Constitution (Article 19), arrest (except for arrest at the scene of a crime) is permitted only on the basis of a court warrant issued no later than 24 hours from the moment of arrest.

Transport

Monaco is connected to the outside world through rail, road, sea and air transport.

The length of the railway network is 1.7 km. The gauge is 1.435 m. The railways are operated by the French national railway company SNCF. The Principality is connected to France both by regional routes and high-speed trains TGV

The total length of highways is 50 km (All roads are paved) There are 6 in the country bus routes, as well as bus service to Nice airport. There are a total of 143 bus stops throughout Monaco.

There are two in the city sea ​​ports: in the areas of La Condamine and Fontvieille.

The Principality is connected by helicopter to Nice Airport.

Climate

The climate of Monaco is subtropical, Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers (average temperatures 28-30 degrees) and mild rainy winters (average temperatures 10-12 degrees. The vast majority of precipitation falls in autumn and winter. In general terms, the climate is similar south coast France.

Sport

Every year since 1929, Monaco has hosted one of the most prestigious competitions in motorsport - the Monaco Grand Prix, which has been part of the Formula 1 World Championship since 1950. The route runs along the city streets. The Auto Club de Monaco also hosts the Monaco Rally, which is part of the calendar of leading rally championships. However, the rally itself is held mostly in France, and only maintenance and exhibition special stages are held in the principality itself.

Also based in Monaco is the football club of the same name (FC Monaco), which plays in the French football championship. The club plays at the Stade Louis II in the Fontvieille area. At the same time, the Monaco Football Federation is not recognized by FIFA, and the club plays for France in the international arena. At the same time, Monaco is a member of the NF-Board, which organizes matches of unrecognized football teams.

Monaco hosts one of the stages of the Global Champions Tour (an international show jumping tournament). This stage is recognized as the most prestigious of the series, hosting the most famous riders from around the world. In 2009, the stage in Monaco took place on June 25-27.

In July 2009, the opening of the Tour de France cycling race took place in Monaco. On July 2, the opening of the Tour de France took place in the La Condamine area. On July 4, the first stage of the cycling race took place on the territory of the principality, cyclists rode 15 km along city streets, and on July 5, the second stage of the Tour de France began in Monaco.

In Monaco, the Stade Louis II traditionally hosts matches for the UEFA Super Cup in August each year, in which the winner of the UEFA Champions League meets the winner of the UEFA Cup.

Culture

Monaco is significant cultural center. Built in 1879 by the architect Charles Garnier (author of the Paris Opera), the Salle Garnier building is home to the Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra and the Monte Carlo Opera.

The following people sang on this stage over the years: Nellie Melba, Enrico Caruso, Fyodor Chaliapin, Placido Domingo, Luciano Pavarotti. In 1911, the Russian Diaghilev Ballet was founded here by Sergei Pavlovich Diaghilev under the patronage of Prince Pierre of Monaco. Anna Pavlova, Vaslav Nijinsky, Tamara Karsavina, George Balanchine, Serge Lifar danced here. Later - Rudolf Nureyev, Mikhail Baryshnikov.

Monaco - capital and residence of the Prince of Monaco

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: “Salle Garnier”, “Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra”, “Boris Pasternak”, “Portrait of Prince Albert II”, “Centenary of the Diaghilev Russian Ballet”.

Education

Primary and secondary education

Monaco has 10 public schools, including 7 kindergartens and primary schools and one high school(College Charles III), one lycée that provides general and technical education (Lycée Albert I) and one lycée that provides education in the field of tourism. 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.

Foreign relations of Monaco

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:

" - This happened in 1962, - ... - The fate of Monaco hung in the balance. French President General de Gaulle threatened the principality to cut off electricity and water supplies if it did not stop luring bankers to itself and did not introduce an income tax. 80 guards of the Royal Palace and 207 The Monaco police were put on alert. Fortunately, the war did not happen. The Prince made concessions..."

“A sunny place for dark people” is how Somerset Maugham described Monaco. One can agree with this aphorism of the famous writer, but one can also 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 “Foreign”, 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 the casino, some are attracted by Formula 1 racing, and some want to watch beautiful life and make sure that this is possible not only in cinema. You can join strong of the world This is to 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. 30 years the world's most famous explorer depths of the 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, 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 impregnable fortress 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 which main attractions you need to see in Monaco, and 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 one in Monaco public transport(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 metro. 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, but in others it resembles a model ideal place residences, where walking 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 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. Marinarium, where there are 90 swimming pools with sea ​​water Home to almost 4,000 fish and marine animals from almost all seas and oceans, it 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

Co observation deck The museum offers an amazing panorama of the principality, the surrounding mountains and everything Ligurian coast all the way 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. 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 truly all about entertainment. Parks, restaurants, cafes and bars open 24 hours a day, 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 magnificent palace, which houses 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. Opera theatre, called the Garnier hall, the most beautiful of all the casino halls. 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.

It's come to an end short walk in the Principality of Monaco. 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!

Useful information for tourists about Monaco, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, currency of Monaco, cuisine, features of visa and customs restrictions of Monaco.

Geography of Monaco

The Principality of Monaco is one of the smallest states in the world, located in the south of Europe, on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, near the border of France and Italy. The territory of Monaco consists of the merged city-districts of Monaco, Monte Carlo, La Condamine and Fontvieille.

Monaco is in an elevated position seashore, formed by limestone mountains that represent the southern extension of the Maritime Alps. Cape Monaco is rocky and protrudes far into the sea, La Condamine is a small open bay. The surface relief is hilly, rugged, rocky. Highest point– Mont-Agel (140 m.).

State

State structure

Monaco is a constitutional monarchy. The head of state is the prince, who transfers the rights of administration to his heir. The head of government is the minister of state. Legislative power belongs to the monarch and the National Council (unicameral parliament). The functions of the lower chamber are performed by the Communal Council.

Language

Official language: French

Residents also speak Monegasque, Italian and English languages.

Religion

90% of the population are Catholics, 6% are Protestants.

Currency

International name: EUR

Euro (Euro), equal to 100 cents. In circulation are banknotes in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros, as well as coins in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents.

You can exchange currency at exchange points at banks, at railway station, hotels.

Freely used credit cards leading world systems and travel checks. It is also profitable to exchange currency through ATM machines.

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Excursions and attractions in Monaco

On Cote d'Azur The Mediterranean Sea is truly paradise- Principality of Monaco. This is one of the smallest states in the world and one of the most fashionable resorts. Monaco – dazzling luxury and sophisticated elegance. A wonderful mild climate, magnificent natural landscapes, gorgeous beaches of the Cote d'Azur, the famous casinos of Monte Carlo, the legendary Formula 1 and a lot of other entertainment will fill your holiday unforgettable impressions.

The Principality of Monaco consists of only a few cities that have practically merged together - Monaco Ville (the official capital), Monte Carlo, La Condamine and a small territory reclaimed from the sea - Fontvieille. Despite the very tiny size of Monaco (about 2 sq. km), there are interesting historical and cultural attractions and always a huge number of tourists.

Monaco Ville or the so-called " Old city» built on a flat cliff top 60 meters above sea level and is historical center Monaco. Here is the Prince's Palace with a magnificent palace square. In the southern wing of the palace there is the Napoleon Museum and the Collection of the Historical Archive of the Princely Palace. Also on the territory of Monaco Ville is Fort Antoine, the stunning Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, which for some time was headed by the famous French explorer of the World Ocean Jacques-Yves Cousteau, the magnificent Gardens of St. Martin, the Wax Museum and the Museum of Old Monaco. Of particular interest are the magnificent white stone Roman-Romanesque Cathedral of St. Nicholas, which is also the tomb of the Princes of Monaco, and the Chapel of Mercy (one of the oldest buildings, built in 1639).

Monte Carlo is rightfully considered cultural and entertainment center Monaco. Here is the world famous Casino - one of the oldest and respectable gambling establishments in the world, striking with its magnificent architecture and luxury. In Monte Carlo it is also worth visiting the Opera House, National Museum Monaco, St. Charles Church and the wonderful Japanese Garden.

Main port Monaco is located in La Condamine, where Monaco's business life is concentrated. The main attractions of La Condamine include the magnificent Exotic Garden, the Church of Sainte-Devote, the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology, the Market and the pedestrian Rue Princesse Caroline. The Fontvieille area is famous for the park of the same name with the stunning Princess Grace Rose Garden, the Maritime Museum, the Museum of Philately and Numismatics, the Zoological Garden and the Louis II Stadium. And in the huge Commercial Center is the Prince Rainier III Vintage Car Museum, which houses a magnificent collection of luxury vintage cars (one of the best collections of its kind in the world).

Monaco is the picturesque Alps, azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea, fashionable beaches and interesting sights. But still, the main life of the country revolves around a huge number of exquisite restaurants and cafes, famous nightclubs, discos and, of course, casinos.

Monaco, whose population is less than 38 thousand people, is, nevertheless, one of the most densely populated countries in the world. It should be said that the inhabitants of this principality do not live in poverty. The density of moneybags per square meter in Monaco is simply amazing. What do we know about this principality? Yes, there is a world famous casino there. The Grand Prix of the Formula 1 rally is also played in Monaco. A feature film was also shot in Hollywood about Princess Grace Kelly, brilliantly played by actress Nicole Kidman. What else do we know about this dwarf state? We invite you to do a little virtual trip to the principality of refined luxury and bold adventures.

Where is Monaco

The name Cote d'Azur tells you something - this coast of the Gulf of Marseille in France is the place of the most luxurious holiday. Cannes, Antibes, Nice - the very name of these resorts sounds like a song. Descending in an amphitheater to Mediterranean Sea the slopes are covered with villas costing several million dollars. Movie stars and owners of interstate trading corporations live here. And among all this splendor nestled the small Principality of Monaco. Its population is small, and its area even more so. The state occupies only two square kilometers and is one hundred and ninety-third in the world by this indicator. The sea is only visible from the Old Town of Monaco. The state does not have its own water area, although in the last 20 years it has reclaimed several hectares of shore. The principality is surrounded on all sides by France. Time in Monaco is European. In summer it lags behind Moscow by one hour, and in winter - by two. The capital is the city of Monaco. The country has established a so-called dualistic monarchy. It is limited by the Constitution. The state is ruled by a prince - now it is Albert II. Despite its modest size, Monaco is represented in the UN, UNESCO, WHO, Interpol, Council of Europe and OSCE.

History of Monaco

Back in the tenth century BC, there was a Phoenician settlement on the rock where the dwarf principality is now located. Later, Greeks and Ligurians lived here. The history of the principality dates back to 1215, when the Monaco fortress was built on the rocky shore. Its population was small. Basically it was a military garrison. In the nineties of the thirteenth century, a civil war broke out in Genoa between the Guelphs and the Ghibellines. A certain Francesco Grimaldi disguised himself as a Franciscan monk and knocked on the evening of January 8, 1297, at the gates of the fortress, asking for shelter for the night. The guards were severely punished for their kindness. His accomplices, who burst in after Grimaldi, slaughtered the entire garrison. And Francesco himself founded a new princely line. For more than seven hundred years, the state has been continuously ruled by the Grimaldi family. And the state coat of arms is decorated with two Franciscan monks with swords.

Modern history of the country

It cannot be said that the independent country has never disappeared since then. political map Europe. Having passed under the Treaty of Perron in 1641 under the protectorate of France, Monaco was completely annexed by its powerful neighbor in 1789. But after the collapse of the Napoleonic Empire, the principality went to the Kingdom of Sardinia. It remained under his protectorate for half a century. In 1860, Sardinia withdrew its troops. The entire small area of ​​Monaco was again recognized as sovereign. The economic take-off of the dwarf state began in 1865, when a casino opened in Monte Carlo. A customs union was concluded with France. In 1911, a constitution appeared, where for the first time the power of the prince was limited. Foreign investors such as Aristotle Onassis provided significant assistance in the development of Monaco's economy. He invested in the entertainment industry and port construction.

The most famous princess

Until the twentieth century, representatives of the princely family of Monaco entered only into strategically advantageous marriage alliances. However, times change, and so do morals. In the middle of the twentieth century, fate brought the ruling Prince Rainier III together with the American actress Grace Kelly. She came to star in Alfred Hitchcock's film To Catch a Thief. And Rainier the Third, who ascended the throne in 1949, was the most eligible bachelor at that time. The couple's wedding took place in a narrow circle on April 18, 1956. The misalliance did not cause a big scandal (after all, the twentieth century!). In addition, Princess of Monaco Grace Kelly did everything possible to make the local people love her. She learned the language and customs. But its main merit is the preservation of the sovereignty of the principality in the complex political relations of the state with France. This is the story of the film “Princess of Monaco” starring Nicole Kidman. On September 13, 1982, Grace Kelly was driving. As a result of the stroke, she lost control of the car, causing the car to fall off a cliff. Grace died in hospital the next day. Her youngest daughter, seventeen-year-old Stefania Maria Elisabeth, was also in the car. The girl suffered a serious neck fracture. IN given time The country is ruled by Grace's son, Albert II, Prince of Monaco. The population carefully preserves the memory of the “American princess.” The main hospital is named after her, and a commemorative coin was issued in her honor.

Holidays in Monaco

The area of ​​the country, as already indicated, is only two square kilometers. This is three times smaller than Moscow's Sokolniki Park. But in the last twenty years, thanks to the draining of the coast, the area of ​​Monaco has increased by almost forty hectares. A port was equipped. Monaco thus became a maritime power in the truest sense of the word. But the principality is not famous for its beach holidays. The content of these two square kilometers is much more interesting than in Sokolniki. There are four cities there: Monte Carlo, Monaco-Ville, La Condamine and Fontvieille. All significant tourist attractions are concentrated on the Saint-Antoine rock jutting out into the sea. This is the Old Town, or Monaco-Ville. Only indigenous people - Monegasques - are allowed to settle here. They are also tax exempt. In Monaco-Ville there are the princely Grimaldi Palace, the cathedral with the tomb of Grace Kelly, the ancient Misericord chapel, Fort Antoine, the wax museums, Napoleon and the Old Town, the historical archive, and the gardens of St. Martin. On the square in front of the residence of Albert II, a ceremony is held every day for the guards to change the guard of honor. It is also interesting to visit the Oceanarium.

Monte Carlo

A description of Monaco would be incomplete without mentioning this capital, where life is dedicated to gambling and nightlife. Gambling Center and nightlife at all. The key attraction here is Europe's first ever casino. This is the gambling house "Du Monte Carlo". It can be called a gambling establishment, which appeared first in the world among phenomena of this kind. But don’t think that people are going to Monte Carlo just to try their luck. There is the famous Japanese Garden, St. Charles Church and the amazing National Doll Park. For shopping you should go to La Condamine. In this town there is a port, a park of exotic plants, the Anthropological Museum, the Great Market, the Church of the Holy Virgin, and the pedestrian street of Princess Caroline. Fontvieille is a new seaside district. There is a zoo, museums of cars, ships, numismatics and philately.

Weather in Monaco

The state is located in a subtropical climate zone. It has hot, dry summers and warm, rainy winters. average temperature January is +10 degrees, and in July it does not fall below +23. The best time The best time to visit the dwarf state is from May to early October. Region protected from northern winds Alps. And in summer, the heated air is refreshed by a light breeze from the sea.

Prices

As already mentioned, the principality is not a country beach holiday. For sun and sea, people go to Nice and Antibes, because life is cheaper there. Therefore, the weather in Monaco is not a predetermining factor for traveling to the country. Tourists come here to experience the world of refined luxury: to lose even a euro in the oldest casino, to watch Formula 1 races, and to visit the current residence of the prince. Prices in hotels in Monaco are quite consistent with the status of the country. There are simply no budget hotels here. Prices for Standart room start from fifteen thousand rubles per night. Restaurants are not far behind the hotels. Just one dish at Louis the Fifteenth costs about two hundred euros.

In May 2008, we made a fascinating trip to France (Savoy Alps-Côte d'Azur). Of course, one of the most amazing impressions was left by the Principality of Monaco: its history, its legends, its houses and narrow streets, the atmosphere imbued with the names of Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier Sh, the air in which the smell is felt rich life and well-being. All this is Monaco.

The Principality of Monaco is one of the smallest states in the world, its area is slightly less than 2 sq. km.

Monaco includes the merged cities:
Monaco-Ville, the old city quarter built on a cliff where the princely palace is located;
Monte Carlo, known to everyone for its casinos, palaces, luxurious villas;
La Condamine, commercial, port area;
Fontvieille is the most modern area by the sea.

Monaco is a state with a developed economy, a powerful tourism industry, a mild climate, and a state where the density of millionaires per square centimeter is the highest in the world.

Monaco is a country of the rich, and wealth requires protection. The principality has a powerful police control system. Law enforcement officers in uniform and in civilian clothes are on duty at their posts around the clock. They have the right to search suspicious objects and cars, check telephone bills, hotel rooms and homes. Television cameras are installed on almost every pole here. I experienced first-hand the precise work of the police: I wanted to visit the wax museum; the building was undergoing renovations; I looked inside to ask the workers where the museum’s exhibition might be. I didn’t even have time to take a step when the police suddenly appeared asking: what do you need? And where did they come from? The street was deserted at that moment... The crime rate was extremely low. This is exactly the place where you can safely “walk” diamonds and luxurious outfits. The most expensive things in Monaco are land and housing. Since there is nowhere to expand, the only way to grow is upwards; prices for apartments are quite high. Apartments in buildings located in France, but with access to Monaco, are valued several times more expensive on the real estate market.

The lands of modern Monaco were inhabited back in the Stone Age, Ligurian tribes lived here; they were replaced by the Phoenicians. During the period of Phoenician rule, the temple of Melkart was built here, whom the Greeks and Romans identified with Hercules. Legend says that this hero founded Monaco. Deciding to take a break this wonderful corner Cote d'Azur, he gave it the name Portus Herculis Moneki - Hercules' secluded pier. It’s as if the city started from this pier. There is another legend. During Roman times, a young Corsican woman named Devote was executed, her body was placed in a boat and sent to Africa. The boat lost its course and ran aground off the coast of Monaco, where a state was founded in honor of this girl.

The fortified city in a convenient bay was one of the important strategic points between Genoa and Marseille. The Romans who came here in the 1st century understood this very well. BC. They paved the famous Via Iulia - the road to Nice, and even further to Marseille. For 5 centuries, this road was one of the main arteries of the Roman Empire, connecting Rome with Gaul, Germany, Spain and England. The Romans were ousted by the Arabs, and those by the Genoese. The Genoese built here a square castle with four towers on the foundations of an old fortress - the famous “stone nest”.

The legend tells that on one Christmas day in 1297, a modest Franciscan monk knocked on the castle gate. Suspecting nothing, the guards let him warm up. Once inside, the monk threw off his robe and pulled out a sword, killing the guards. Following him, armed soldiers burst into the open gate. This monk in disguise was François Grimaldi, the founder of the dynasty that still rules in Monaco. The Grimaldi have always been proud of their history. It is no coincidence that the coat of arms of Monaco depicts two monastic figures drawing swords from under their cassocks.

The Grimaldi family is one of the few that has ruled since the 13th century. Throughout Europe he was once famous for his scandalous reputation. Even after the final confirmation in power, the heirs of Francois Grimaldi continued to engage in piracy and robbery, attacking merchant ships. Later they decided to legalize the robberies and introduced a “right of passage past Monaco” for merchants. The fee was equal to 2% of the cost of goods transported. The tradition of robbery passed from father to son, and this continued for many centuries, only the Great French Revolution temporarily curbed this nest of robbers. The family of the then Prince Honore III was arrested, his daughter-in-law died on the scaffold. The Monegasque National Convention decided to join France, but after the fall of Napoleon, the monarchy was restored in the principality, and the right to “robbery” returned to Grimaldi.

The Principality of Monaco passed from hand to hand - it was owned by the kings of Sicily, the Dukes of Savoy, the Spaniards, and Napoleon. Only the Grimaldi princes remained unchanged.

In the early 60s of the 19th century, the Principality of Monaco was a quiet settlement where the main activities were fishing and agriculture; the principality was on the verge of ruin. It survived only by selling salt and taking customs duties to enter France. The state of the principality's economy at that time was simply catastrophic. What do rulers do in this case? Of course, they raise taxes and introduce new ones. Prince Charles (Karl) III took a different path. He set completely modern tasks. The first is to make money. The second is to contribute in every possible way technical progress. The third is to be able to enjoy all of the above.

The new bourgeoisie wanted to have a brilliant holiday, and Prince Grimaldi was in charge of several kilometers of a wonderful coastal zone. True, there’s really nowhere to sit here yet, just frail fishing shacks and orange groves. But this can be fixed.

The idea of ​​quickly and a lot of money playing roulette came to the head of the ruler of Monaco during a trip to the resorts of Germany, where the gambling business was then flourishing. However, unlike millions of other players, the “hungry” Prince Grimaldi, observing the spin of the roulette, understood the main “winning system”. The winner of the game is either the one who does not play it at all, or the one who organizes the game. Charles (Karl) chose the second. But a professional was needed - and he appeared, Francois Blanc, who was organizing games in Germany. He asked to sell him a bare cape. On it, Blanc intended to build a city that would “rob all of Europe,” because its center would become a casino, which the Old World had never known. Charles III thought about it. Still, the 10% of the profit that the Frenchman offered was too little. “Agree, monseigneur,” Francois Blanc continued, “I will name this city after your name, and your descendants will never forget you.” The prince agreed.

In 1863, the Society sea ​​bathing"under the leadership of Francois Blanc. Karl III granted this company a monopoly concession for the construction and operation of gambling establishments, hotels and restaurants for a period of 50 years. The company exists to this day and is one of the largest in Europe.

In order for the casino to generate income and not losses, Blanc implements the main rule of the gambling business - the player must quickly get to the casino, must live next to the casino, must relax in the casino. In 1864, François Blanc spends in Monaco railway, lays out gardens and parks around the casino building, reconstructs the port, and builds the luxurious Hotel De Paris next to the casino, which immediately becomes the most prestigious and expensive hotel on the coast. In 1865, the grand opening of the new casino took place, and in 1866 the new quarter received the name Monte Carlo. In the first three years, the new casino earned so much money that Prince Charles III abolished direct taxation for citizens of his country, which has reached the present day.

The flourishing of the casino leads to the flourishing of the Principality of Monaco itself. The city is developing, beautiful parks, many hotels, gyms and nightclubs spring up. Monte Carlo has become a meeting place for the international elite - the entire elite goes only there. What fell on the prince and his subjects was not just a “golden shower”, but a real “golden shower”. We remember that the prince agreed to an amount of 10% of the total profits of the casino; by the end of his life, Charles was already receiving 4 million francs from the owners of the Casino.

Since then, the principality has become a legend, a symbol of high society entertainment, balls, receptions and gambling. We were waiting for dear guests. And the guests were not long in coming. Already in 1869, Monte Carlo was visited by 170 thousand tourists, and many specially sailed from America. The numbers were gigantic for those times. But not at all mass tourism Charles III Grimaldi strived. He wanted to see a very specific audience as his guests. The old crowned business executive achieved his goal. The Prince of Wales, the future King of Great Britain Edward VII and the current Emperor Napoleon III with his faithful friend, the town planner baron Eugene Haussmann, hurried to him. Both the retinue and the bourgeoisie came for the monarchs. As is usually the case, after great power came a powerful intellectual elite. And, despite the fact that today there are casinos in every capital and many resorts, Monte Carlo retains the title of the most prestigious gambling establishment. They say that Las Vegas was built for those who did not have enough money for Monte Carlo.

But it turned out that one casino in Monaco was not enough, and at the end of the 20s of the last century another legend was born in Monte Carlo - about the “race around the casino”. On April 14, 1929, Anthony Noguet, the president and founder of the local Automobile Club, opened the drawing for the first Grand Prix automobile de Monaco. The dwarf principality was filled with the roar of engines. Prince Pierre Grimaldi (father of the late Rainier III and grandfather of the current Prince Albert II) himself took part in it - in his personal car. Now racing brings in up to $100 million a year to the treasury.

The history of Monaco is largely the history of the Grimaldi family. There are many legends about this family, but among them there is one that the Grimaldis prefer to keep silent about, but superstitious people believe that it was this that had a devastating influence on the fate of the family. This is the famous "curse of the Grimaldi family." According to legend, in the 13th century, the first Monegasque prince kidnapped a beautiful girl in Holland, seduced her and abandoned her. The beauty turned into a witch and cursed her offender: “None of the Grimaldi will be allowed to know happiness in marriage!” The history of the princely family confirms this prophecy. For centuries, family chronicles have been full of quarrels, divorces, and untimely deaths.

And then, finally, an event occurred that seemed to break this fatal chain. In 1956, Prince Rainier III led to the altar one of the most beautiful women of that time - the rising Hollywood star Grace Kelly. America rejoiced, Europe waited. It was the wedding of the century. Combining European aristocracy and American glamor, Monaco became fashionable for a long time. The transformation of a Hollywood celebrity into a princess aroused enormous interest in the principality, which began to be forgotten after World War II.

The young princess said goodbye to her cinematic past forever and tried to become a worthy match for her crowned husband. And she became it: it was thanks to Grace that the Principality of Monaco became the center cultural life, becoming famous for its festivals and celebrations. Exhibitions and screenings of fashionable films were held here, but the prince forbade showing films in Monaco with the participation of the princess. She gave birth to the heir to the throne, Albert, and two daughters, and was an exemplary mother to them. In Monaco there is a real cult of Princess Grace, carefully maintained by her children: photographs, posters, names of the avenue and gardens are everywhere. But in 1982, Grace Kelly died in a car accident. Details of family life (not always cloudless) leaked beyond the walls of the palace, and in Monaco they again started talking about the curse of the Grimaldi family. The beautiful princesses Caroline and Stephanie are unlucky in their personal lives; Prince Albert is still not married. But according to the treaty of 1918, if the Grimaldi family ends in a straight line, then the principality comes under the jurisdiction of France! And this is what worries Monegasques and those who keep their money here most of all. Taxes! Privileges!

What is interesting to see in the principality -

Monaco-Ville

Departure and arrival station: Oceanographic Museum on Avenue Saint-Martin.

This small train, painted in national colors, can accommodate up to 54 passengers. A guided tour from the Gardens of Saint-Martin to Grimaldi Rock is offered in French, English, Italian and German.

Also departing from Monaco-Ville, another equally small train will take you for a walk into the heart of Monte Carlo, to the entrance to the famous Casino and its gardens, pass by famous luxury hotels and return to the Old Town.

Trains operate daily, from February to October, from 10.30 to 12.00 and from 14.00 to 18.00.
- Route around Monaco-Ville: travel time - 10 minutes,
- Route Monaco Ville - Casino Square: travel time - 35 min.,

Princely Palace

The palace is open to the public every day. The palace is located, as it should be, on the palace square. On this square there is a battery of cannons from the era of Louis XIV. And here every day at exactly 11.55 there is a changing of the guard. If you are lucky and see a waving banner above the residence building, then at that time the prince is in the palace.

How to find the entrance to the palace - look at the palace from the side of the square, to the left, at the end of the building - the ticket office. Entrance - 7.5 euros. Photography and video are not allowed.

Go through the ticket office, take an audio guide in Russian and find yourself in a wonderful courtyard that once was central area principalities. Particularly beautiful is the staircase from which the decrees of the princes were read, and onto which the born heirs to the throne were solemnly carried and shown to the respectable public.

Expensive shops are located in Monte Carlo, and on the palace square there are mainly shops and stalls with souvenirs and Chinese-made products. Regardless of the price, the quality is poor. I bought a blouse with the symbols of the principality, not the cheapest - it faded. And not only for me.

Wax Museum of the Princes of Monaco

Address: 27, rue Basse, from February to October - from 9.30 to 18.00, entrance fee. The street runs from the palace square through the old town, the museum building is a small house, look carefully at the name of the street, we passed by several times without noticing the museum.

From the palace square we go downstairs - toilet, 0.5 euros.

Further down - Jardin Saint Martin
From the gardens laid out in the Old Town, one can see beautiful view on the sea. Among the pines, agaves and aloes are fountains and bronze statues, including a monument to Prince Albert I.

Let's go even lower -

Monaco Cathedral

Lower -

Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium

Open: April, May, June and September - from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., entrance 12.5 euros. You can shoot and take photographs.

Monte Carlo

The Casino du Monte Carlo of 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. 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.

Casino Gardens and Terraces

Museum of Old Monaco

Japanese garden

The Formula 1 Grand Prix of Monaco is held in Monte Carlo. This is one of the greatest and most exciting races taking place on city streets. “The Devil's Carousel”, “the race of a thousand turns” - this is the name of the races taking place in Monaco.

Zoological Garden

Condamine

Church of St. Devota

Louis II Stadium

Market

Princess Caroline Street

Exotic garden

Observatory Grotto

Fontvieille

Fontvieille Park

Princess Grace Rose Garden

Maritime Museum

Personal collection of classic cars of His Highness Prince Rainier III

Russians in Monaco.

Since fashion in Monaco arose only in the last century, our culture here flourished slowly. It all started with Chaliapin’s tour, then Diaghilev arrived with his ballet, and in 1932 the Russian Ballet of Monte Carlo was founded with Balanchine as the main choreographer, then Fokine replaced him. During our trip (May 2008), Alla Dukhova's ballet toured here.

Irina
21/08/2009 13:57

The opinions of tourists may not coincide with the opinions of the editors.