Any Travels

Monaco is for the rich and famous. But also for those, who dream of being rich and famous. The mini state on the Mediterranean is like one big Club Med (drinks are not included). Most people don't stay in Monaco but do it as a daytrip from the French or Italian Riviera. The present territory of the Principality of Monaco covers 195 hectares (1.95 Km"), 31 of which have been entirely reclaimed from the sea!

The population is close to 30.000 more than 83% of whom are foreigners; Monegasques number about 5.000. The official language is French but Italian and English widely spoken and understood. There's also a Monegasque language (a very colorful dialect) used by the old nationals but also again studied in the schools of the Principality.

The Catholic religion is the state religion, freedom of worship, however, is guaranteed by the Constitution. The national holiday is celebrated on 19 November. The sovereignty of Monaco is today indisputable, undisputed and internationally recognized but it has not always been so, as its history demonstrates. You can best wander around in the city instead of taking the bus. The unit of currency is the Euro.

Monegasque culture is the type one buys a new frock for; it's an ideal accompaniment to martinis and finger food. Most of its cultural institutions sprang up fresh-faced in the 17th century under the patronage of Prince Honore III. The prize-winning Monte Carlo Philharmonic has been thumping out tunes since 1863, while the more modern Monte Carlo Ballet was established by Princess Caroline to honour her mother's memory. Monte Carlo also has its own opera and several theatres.

If you scrape off Monaco's flawless makeup, however, you'll find the remnants of a deeply religious, spiritual culture underneath. The legend of Devote, the country's patron saint and founder, is a cherished part of Monegasque heritage. Every year on 27 January a torchlit ceremony is held for her at the Church of St Devote. Monaco also venerates saints such as St Roman, a martyred Roman legionary, and St John.


Events
Monaco is a country that thrives on spectacle and glitz. The big one for the year has to be the Formula One Grand Prix, held in mid-May, when the world's best drivers hit the city streets and crossing the road becomes an extreme sport. Those who can't get enough of big, throbbing engines should also be in town in January for the Monte Carlo Motor Rally. Dedicated to showing off in all its forms, Monaco also hosts the International Circus Festival in January, the Great Magic Prize''' (an international prestidigitators' playoff) in March and the '''International Fireworks Competition (duked out in the natural amphitheatre of Monaco's harbour) in July.