Explorations of one of the world’s smallest countries.
Monaco is a tiny little nation along the southern coast of France, a country so small that it can fit inside New York City’s Central Park. Monaco is the second smallest country in the world, second only to Vatican City. Monaco is one of the last city-states. The country is ruled by a constitutional monarchy headed by Prince Albert II. The House of Grimaldi have ruled Monaco since 1297. Although Monaco is in fact an independent nation, it does not have a true border with France. I couldn’t even find signs noting where France ended and Monaco began, leading to some disappointment.
The only sign I could find near the border with Monaco on it. They replaced the normal “Welcome to Monaco” with this festive one.
This tiny nation is an interesting mix of old-world charm and the 20th century. The old city still exists on top of the Rock of Monaco, but much of the city is now mostly a mix of 20-21st century condos and apartment buildings for the rich. In fact, 30% of this tiny nation’s citizens are millionaires.
The Rock of Monaco, with Monaco-ville on top.
The most famous area of Monaco is most likely Monte-Carlo, with its 1878 casino and Grand Concert Hall, constructed in an interesting architectural flair. Monaco lives off tourism and its famous casino (which citizens are denied entry). The state sponsored casino was founded just to bring in money and tourism to Monaco. It worked.
Monaco was so tiny it took less than a day for me to explore. This is what I found.
I started the day by heading up to the top of the Rock of Monaco (the area is called Monaco-ville), where I was met by this fancy gate. I visited Monaco in the beginning of December, hence all the Christmas decorations.
Apparently, there is a problem with tourists walking around the streets of Monaco wearing just speedos. Who knew?
View from the walkway up to the Rock. It is not that surprising that Monaco has the second highest population density in the world.
Once on top of the Rock, you find the royal palace of Monaco.
Monaco’s palace guards. I like their uniform.
This building is right across the plaza from the palace. I really like the decoration.
The main harbor as seen from the top of the Rock. Part of the Formula One track is down there.
View from the other side of the Rock. Every available inch of space is used in this country.
Saint Nicholas Cathedral was built between 1895-1903 and houses the remains of the royal family.
This is the best picture I could get of the apse of the church. They don’t allow you to walk down the center at all.
And this is why, the royal seats in the front of the church.
The tomb of Grace Kelly, who married Prince Rainier III in 1956.
Right outside the cathedral is this awesome building.
This is probably the widest street of Monaco-ville.
Found this little gem of a chapel, Notre-Dame-de-la-Misericorde.
Much of the area below Monaco-ville has buildings such as this, but they are slowly disappearing due to the lack of preservation laws in Monaco.
I, of course, found myself a cemetery to explore and it was one of the most beautiful ones I have ever seen.
Last but not least, the Casino of Monte-Carlo, with its Christmas trees and palm trees. No, I did not go inside. While tours are allowed of the casino, there is a strict dress code, and I certainly was not following it.
Monaco is an easy visit from the nearby, and much cheaper, French city of Nice. It is worth the 45-minute trip. There is much more to explore than what you have seen here.
Tip when visiting: The modern areas of this city are really confusing. Roads are double stacked on the hills, with a lower portion and a upper portion. There are elevators throughout. Find a decent map because I got so lost. Thanks Google.
Enjoy this little musical clip by the fun guys playing outside of the casino:
Check out the rest of my Wandering series!
