Officially, Monaco is known as the Principality of Monaco. Monaco is a country, micro-sate, and a sovereign city state located in Western Europe. France borders the country on the three sides while the other side is surrounded by Mediterranean Sea. The total area of Monaco is 202 ha. The total population of Monaco is 39,074. Let’s explore interesting facts about Monaco.

Language

The official language of Monaco is French. In addition, there are other languages spoken in Monaco including Italian, Russian,and Monegasque. English is spoken and well understood in Monaco which is very helpful for the tourists.

Smallest Country

Yes, Monaco is the second most smallest country in the world. So, you must be wondering which is the first smallest country in the world. It’s Vatican City.

Casino de Monte-Carlo

Casino de Monte-Carlo was opened in 1863. It is one of the most interesting tourist attraction. The Casino de Monte-Carlo is open to player from 2pm until the last table closes. The entrance fee is 10 euro. The “Belle Époque”-style casino is the masterpiece of Monaco. It is surprising to know that the citizens of Monaco have no permission to gamble here because the government don’t want their people to waste their money. The minimum bet in casino is 5 euro and maximum is 2000 euro. But if you want your game in a private room then the minimum amount rise to 10 euro.

There is no specific dress code for the casino but a ‘Proper attire’ is required. You cannot wear shorts, flip flops or any kind of sports shoes in the casino.

Cultural and Religious Facts about Monaco

Roman Catholicism is the official religion of  Monaco. Constitution of Monaco guarantees freedom of worship. Monegasque follow the teachings of Roman Catholic Church. Their beliefs about this worldly life and the life hereafter are according to Catholicism. Italy, Spain and France culture have strong influence on Monaco’s lifestyle.

There are several traditional rituals and festivals in Monaco.

Monaco festivals are popular among the globe. Here are some most famous fiesta

• The Spring Arts Festival
• Monaco International Marathon
• Monaco Music Film Festival
• International Circus Festival Of Monte Carlo
• Monte Carlo International Fireworks Festival
• Monaco Grand Prix
• International Emerging Talent Film Festival
• Monaco Yacht Show
• Monte Carlo Television Festival
• International Festival Of Amateur Theater

Capital of Monaco

The administrative area of Monaco is Monte Carlo, capital of Monaco. The total population of Monte Carlo is approximately 3,500. Further, the population of Monte Carlo represents approximately 40.8% of the population of Monaco. The capital of Monaco is a rich man city. This city is home to hundreds millionaires.

Monaco Food

We all love food. So why wait? Let’s find out what is the national meal of Monaco. Barbajuan is the national meal. Surprisingly, this appetizer is also famous in France and Italy. Being the national dish, it is mostly eaten on 19th of November, which is the national day of Monaco. Bouillabaisse is a popular fish stew in Monaco. The traditional Bouillabaisse is comprising of three fish varieties, namely sea robin, European conger, and red rascasse.

Gnocchi or potato puffs is another mouthwatering dish of Monaco with mild cheesy flavor. Other dishes like Porchetta(a pig roast), Brandamincium(saltish cod stew), Galapian(cherry and almond tart), Pan Bagnat(mixed sandwich), Fougasse(flat bread), Socca(chickpea flour bread) are also famous.

Monaco Tax Heaven

Why Monaco is considered a tax heaven? The reason is its tax laws and policies. First, the country survive solely on the revenue generated by the casinos and tourism. Second, the absence of personal income tax has attracted to it a large number of “Tax Refugee” from European countries.

Airports in Monaco

Furthermore, there are no airports in Monaco or you can say Monaco is not big enough to have airports. The closest airport is Cote d’Azur airport in Nice, France which is connected to Monaco by 110 express bus. Monaco is shareholder in Nice airport. This airport is 32 km from the center Monte Carlo, Monaco. Though the country has helicopters during the busy season to receive tourist after interval of every 20 minutes.

Interesting facts About Monaco, FLAG

Monaco’s flag is similar to flag of Indonesia. The only difference is in size of these flags, Indonesia’s flag is wider. Besides this, the flag of Poland is also white and red.

Oceanographic museum

Oceanographic museum is a marine science museum in Monaco-Ville, Monaco. The museum was founded by Prince Albert I. The museum has more than 6,000 specimens on display. Museum has whale room and Prince Albert I room with many mounted specimens, archive documents, photographs and models.

There are many events held on weekly bases in the museum. Such as feeding the animal in touch tank and light and sound show in the whale room.

Monaco Millionaires

Best of all, Monaco is one of the richest countries in the world. It has highest number of millionaires and billionaires than in any other country in the world. There are 12,261 millionaires in less than one square mile. The number increased by 12 percent between 2013 and 2018 according to 2019 Knight Frank Wealth report. There is no income tax. Similarly there is no corporation tax on business. High standards of living attracts hundreds of millionaires in Monaco