By: Charlene Medders
If you’re traveling through the coast of France on your way to Italy, you may unknowingly find yourself in an entirely new country: the tiny country of Monaco.
This view from the Prince’s Palace overlooks the city of Monte Carlo, a city that hosts large yachts, wealthy families, and the world-famous Monaco Grand Prix.
Less than five miles long, this country is the jewel of the Mediterranean, portraying breathtaking views of the sea and impressive buildings that mirror the colors of the sunset. Resembling a place taken straight from a children’s book, Monaco should be at the top of your bucket list.
The country’s long, rich history and wealthy residents make Monaco a must-see for tourists from around the world. It’s the perfect destination for those traveling from France to Italy or vice versa, as it’s only two French towns over from the Italian border.
Monaco, which is the second smallest country in the world, preceded by the Vatican, has a history that dates all the way back to the 13th century. The country was initially a part of France, but in 1215, it became a colony of Genoa through a land grant from Emperor Henry VI. The country’s main language is French, and most residents are from French descent.
One thing the wealthy enjoy about Monaco is its tax-free status. The country doesn’t collect any personal income tax or capital gains taxes. This has definitely drawn the rich into this country, as only wealthy people can afford to live in the area.
The Prince’s Palace and its History
Anyone who visits Monaco must make a stop at the Prince’s Palace, where the current Grimaldi family live and rule. The Grimaldi family settled in the area in 1297, and they have been the royal family for over 700 years.
The Prince’s Palace is the best place to learn about how the Grimaldis came into power all those years ago. It’s an interesting story to say the least.
The Prince’s Palace showcases Monaco at its finest, exhibiting beautiful geometric patterns.
The story of how the family came into power dates back to January 8, 1297, when Francois Grimaldi, nicknamed Malizia, disguised himself as a monk and asked for shelter for the night at the fortress in Monaco. After being let in by a palace guard, Francois and the men with him captured the fortress for the Grimaldis.
The family fought to govern the nation for years, and they finally acquired the country in 1419. That wasn’t the end of the story, though.
In the late 1700s, French troops captured Monaco, and the country was back in the possession of France. France controlled the region until 1814. Then, the Grimaldi family was back in power, and they have stayed in power of the sovereign country ever since.
Along with the Prince’s Palace being the place to learn the history of the Grimaldi family, visitors can watch the famous changing of the guards.
Nordine, a Viator guide from Nice, France, said that the changing of the guards is a huge attraction for visitors.
The guards at the Prince’s Palace work 24-hour shifts, and every day at 11:55 a.m., there is a changing of the guard ceremony. This ceremony takes place on the Palace Square, and it’s a solemn military ritual performed with perfect coordination.
The World’s Most Famous Casino
The Monte Carlo Casino was built in the 1860s, and its intricate designs are inspired by French architects.
Monte Carlo, which is a city in Monaco, houses the world’s most famous casino, and it's an extravagant spectacle. Numerous famous films were shot here, like Fast and Furious 5 and Never Say Never Again.
Nordine said that the casino was built in 1865, and it has become increasingly popular over the years. He mentioned that entrance into the casino is prohibited for the residents of Monaco.
“People from Monaco aren’t allowed in the casino,” he said. “Years ago, the prince didn’t want his citizens to lose all of their money in the casino, so he didn’t allow Monaco locals to be let in. That law is still in place today.”
That law passed in 1987, and even the royal family can’t step foot into the casino. Along with not wanting locals to lose their fortune, the prince didn’t want croupiers working at the casino to recognize people from Monaco and help them win, so the law has stayed in effect for almost 40 years.
To play in the casino, you must show your passport or another form of identification and pay 17 euros. However, it’s completely free to walk into the casino and enjoy the luxurious atmosphere.
Just one look into the Monte Carlo Casino gives visitors a glimpse into the wealth of this country and its residents.
Something about the casino is extremely captivating when you first enter. Lauren Goulet, a student at Florida State University who is studying abroad in Florence, Italy this summer, said she thoroughly enjoyed her experience in the casino.
“It’s just so interesting to people watch in the casino and see how everyone interacts,” she said.
Rich History and Wealthy Families
The Saint Nicholas Cathedral recently hosted the children’s First Communion, a big celebration in the Catholic church.
One of the last historical landmarks you must see when visiting Monaco is the Saint Nicholas Cathedral. This beautiful Roman-Byzantine style building was constructed in 1875 using white stone from La Turbie, a commune in southeastern France. The Saint Nicholas Cathedral isn’t the first cathedral of Monaco, as the first church was built in 1321.
In 1868, the territory of Monaco was separated from the diocese of Nice. There was a decision to demolish the old church and build the new church that you can see today. The church is still very much active, as most of the residents of Monaco practice Catholicism.
An Experience Like No Other
Lauren said she took a weekend trip to Nice, France with a few friends during their time off from classes. While they were in Nice, she had to visit Monaco, as it is just a short metro ride from Nice. She immediately fell in love with the small country.
Monaco’s views go from the water, to the mountains, to the buildings that resemble a sunset.
“When I first saw Monaco, I was in awe,” she said. “From the moment we got out of the train station, I knew it was going to be a beautiful place, and I couldn’t wait to explore the country.”
Lauren said that a quick day trip from Nice was just enough time to explore the beautiful country. She visited the racetrack of the Monaco Grand Prix, which hosted the Formula 1 this year from May 25 through May 28.
The Monaco Grand Prix takes place on this exact street, and thousands of people from around the world come to watch it up close.
She also visited the Prince’s Palace and the Hotel de Paris, which is one of the most expensive hotels in the world. She wishes she was able to go inside the palace, but it was sadly closed to the public because it’s undergoing renovations.
Lauren says she would love to go back to Monaco to enjoy the wonderful views again and explore the inside of the Prince’s Palace along with the Cathedral. The history of this country is something to learn about and experience firsthand.
This quiet haven for the wealthy deserves to be seen.
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