Everything you need to know about Monaco: news, reviews, in-depth analysis, opinion and more

Monaco: European City State and Tax Haven

After enjoying independence for 800 years, France annexed Monaco in 1793 but shortly after, in 1815 Monaco was placed under Sardinia's protection. By Franco-Monegasque treaty of 1861, Monaco went under French guardianship but as an independent state. A treaty made with France in 1918 contained a clause providing that, in the event that the male Grimaldi dynasty should die out, Monaco would become an autonomous state under French protection. Prince Rainier III succeeded his grandfather Louis II after his death in 1949. On April 6, 2005, Prince Rainier the Europe's longest-reigning monarch died and Prince Albert II became the Monarch of Monaco.

· National Name: Principality of Monaco
· Capital: Monaco
· Total area: 1.95 sq km (0.75 sq mile)
· Population: 32,000 (UN, 2008)
· Currency: Euro
· Languages: French (official), English, Italian, Monegasque
· Ethnicity/ Races: French 47%, Monegasque 16%, Italian 16%, other 21%
· Religion: Roman Catholic 90%, other 10%
· GDP (Per Capita): $30,000 (2006 est.)
· Life Expectancy: Male: 76.14 years, Female: 83.97 years (2008 est.)
· Literacy Rate: Male: 99%, Female: 99% (2003 est.)

Culture, Cuisine and Tradition of Monaco:
The co-existence of various ethnic groups from French, Italian and Monegasque makes the Monaco culture quite vibrant and cosmopolitan. The followings of Roman Catholic faith predominates the practices and followings of people living in Monaco. The Church plays a key role in shaping Monaco culture. Some aspects of Monaco beliefs and practices derived from the ethnic tribal that where living in the country. Marriage is considered to be an important part of the Monaco culture and is held on basis of the traditions of Roman Catholics

The small country Monaco is known for its lip smacking delicacies. The cuisine of Monaco is highly influenced from the neighbouring countries of France and Italy. Fish and seafood are the key components of Monaco cuisine. One of the most common fishes is Cod that is served on special occasions, such as Christmas dinner with fritters and old wines. French delicacies in the Monaco cuisine, combinations of delicate sweet tastes with sour flavors, the Italian pastas, various kinds of fish dishes with lime and other ingredients heighten the taste of Monaca foods.

Economy of Monaco:
The economy of Monaco largely based on tourism, ceramics, construction, cosmetics, chemicals, precision instruments, food products and plastics industries. Fish and fish products are main exports of Monaco. The prime contributor of Monaco economy is the tourism sector. The cruise ships also contribute to Monaco economy. While the income from the casinos is the minor contributor to the Monaco national income.

Tourist Attraction of Monaco:
The vibrant culture along with world-class tourists facilities attracts tourists from the world. Beautiful stretch of Mediterranean coast is a popular holiday choice while the Côte d'Azur gives a captivating mixture of natural beauty, artificial glamour, and azure sea.

Prince's Palace: is the magnificent palace that is known for its architectural supremacy and finest example of interior decoration. It is a place that was built during the 13th century and also the official residence of the Prince of Monaco and his family.
Napoleon Museum: is the best place that unfolds some of the hidden aspects of French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. The collection of the museum include documents relating to the first Empire, personal belongings of Napoleon Bonaparte and some religious articles brought from Sainte Helene

· Fort Antoine Theater
· Saint Nicholas Cathedral
· Monte Carlo
· Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium
· Saint-Martin Gardens