Monaco
Official Country Name
Monaco
Monaco Overview
The Genoese built a fortress on the site of present-day Monaco in 1215. The current ruling Grimaldi family secured control in the late 13th century, and a principality was established in 1338. Economic development was spurred in the late 19th century with a railroad linkup to France and the opening of a Monte Carlo Casino. Since then, the principality's mild climate, splendid scenery, and gambling facilities have made Monaco world famous as a tourist and recreation center.
Monaco Economy
Monaco, bordering France on the Mediterranean coast, is a popular resort, attracting tourists to its casino and pleasant climate. In 2001, a major construction project extended the pier used by cruise ships in the main harbor. The principality has successfully sought to diversify into services and small, high-value-added, nonpolluting industries. The state has no income tax and low business taxes and thrives as a tax haven both for individuals who have established residence and for foreign companies that have set up businesses and offices. The state retains monopolies in a number of sectors, including tobacco, the telephone network, and the postal service. Living standards are high, roughly comparable to those in prosperous French metropolitan areas.
Monaco Location
Monaco is located in Western Europe, bordering the Mediterranean Sea on the southern coast of France, near the border with Italy
Region
Monaco is located in Europe
Monaco Population
Monaco has population of 32,543 (July 2006 est.)
Monaco Climate
Monaco has Mediterranean with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers
Monaco Terrain
hilly, rugged, rocky
Monaco Natural Resources
none
Ethnic Groups in Monaco
Monaco has the following ethnic groups - French 47%, Monegasque 16%, Italian 16%, other 21%
Monaco Religions
Roman Catholic 90%, other 10%
Monaco Languages
French (official), English, Italian, Monegasque
Monaco Capital
Monaco capital is Monaco
Monaco Currency
Monaco currency is euro
Map of Monaco
