Monaco is an independent sovereign state located at the foot of the Southern European Alps by the Mediterranean Sea. The Principality of Monaco borders with France and is 21 kilometres (13 miles) from Italy. With an area of approximately 500 acres, roughly 100 acres of seafront property, Monaco is situated at 43°44’ North Latitude and 7°25’ East Longitude. Monaco is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1) and has 29,972 inhabitants, of which 5,070 are Monegasque, 12,047 French and 5,000 Italian.

History

In ancient history, the Rock of Monaco was a shelter for primitive populations. History of Monaco itself started in the 13th Century. On the 10th of June 1215, the Genoan family of the Gibelins commenced construction of the present Prince's Palace. To attract populations, incentives were offered to newcomers. Territorial concessions and tax exemption were granted. The Grimaldi family dynasty commenced in 1297, over 700 years ago.

Monaco’s motto is "Deo Juvante" (With God's Help) and Catholicism is the state religion. Freedom of worship is upheld through the Constitution. The National Holiday is on the 19 of November.

Communication

Nice airport is approximately 30 minutes by car, or 10 minutes by helicopter via the Monaco Heliport. The telephone code is 377 and telecommunication services are state of the art. Monaco prints its own stamps.

Language

The official language is French, although Italian and English are widely spoken. The traditional Monegasque language, "le Monegù," is spoken amongst elders and is taught in all local schools.