Though
its territory measures only 8 square kilometers, the tiny
principality of Monaco is home to over 30,000 inhabitants,
each of whom enjoys the city’s ideal location between
the waters of the Mediterranean and the inland mountain
cliffs. With its luxurious grand hotels, its modern-day
skyscrapers, its world famous casino, its sumptuous gardens,
its prestigious museums and its international cultural
festivals, it is no wonder that Monaco has long been the
sought after destination of many a traveler.
Moreover,
Monaco boasts one of the most dynamic economies on the
"Cote d’Azur." Numerous corporations have
based their international headquarters here. Nevertheless,
tourism is by far the single-most important industry in
Monaco. With this in mind, many cultural and athletic
events take place here – some of the most famous
being the Formula 1 grand-prix race in Monte Carlo, the
annual world champion’s Open Tennis Tournament, the
Philharmonic Orchestra concert series, and performances
by the Monte Carlo Ballet. Monaco also entertains thousands
of spectators each year through its international film,
television and circus festivals.
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The
list of sites not to miss in Monaco is long.
The Exotic Garden and the grotto of the Observatory cover
a "reserve" where favorable climatic conditions
have enabled over 8,000 species of plants to thrive for
all to admire. Another highlight would include the Oceanographic
Museum whose turn-of-the-century walls house one of the
world’s most complex and impressive aquariums. Just
to the west of Monaco is the Fontvieille district which
features, among other newly inaugurated urban projects
and services, a panoramic park, a heliport and an Olympic
sports complex. But the true jewel of this new urban site
is the Princess Grace Rose Garden which abounds in 4,000
rose bushes of over 150 varieties produced by the best
European and American floriculturists.
Strolling
through the streets of "the Rock" the visitor
should not be surprised to see old houses decorated with
marble bas-reliefs, to come across picturesque squares
with wells or fountains, or to pass under medieval arches.
The architectural history of Monaco is rich and abundant.
Many delightful walks will enable the visitor to discover
the Prince’s palace, the Cathedral of Monaco whose
façade overlooks the Saint Martin gardens, the
Chapel of Misery, the Town Hall and the Court House.
The
palace courtyard, designed in true Italian Renaissance
style, offers visitors the daily splendor of the changing
of the guard as well as many evening concerts. In the
summer, the courtyard opens its gates to the fireworks
festival (July/August) and the fall season is marked by
the Monegasque national festivities (November).
