Monaco

MONACO (officially the Principality of Monaco) is a small sovereign city-state located in Western Europe. The territory lies on the northern coast of the Mediterranean Sea and is completely enclosed by France. Monaco is often regarded as a tax haven, and many of its inhabitants are wealthy and from foreign countries making up a majority of the population, at around 84%.

Monaco is a Constitutional Monarchy and Principality with Prince Albert II as head of state. The Grimaldi family has ruled over Monaco since 1297 and the state's sovereignty was officially recognized by the Franco-Monegasque Treaty of 1861. Despite being independent, Monaco's defense is still the responsibility of France.

Monaco is the world's most densely populated sovereign country, and the world's smallest French-speaking country.

Points of Interest:

Monte-Carlo Casino
Salle Garnier Opera House
Oceanographic Museum
Prince's Palace
Monaco Cathedral
Princess Grace Rose Garden
Japanese Garden
Exotic Garden
St. Devote Chapel

Annual Events:

International Circus Festival (January)
Monte-Carlo Television Festival (February)
World Music Awards (March)
Monte-Carlo Spring Arts Festival (April-May)
Monte-Carlo International Tennis Championships (April)
Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix (May)
Laureus World Sports Awards (May)
International Fireworks Festival (July-August)
Red Cross Ball (August)
Monaco Yacht Show (September)
Monaco National Holiday Festivities (November)
Monaco Dance Forum (December-Every two years)
Opera, ballet and concerts (All year round)