Monaco
The Principality of Monaco is the second-smallest independent state
in the world, after the Holy See (Vatican City). It is located on
the Mediterranean coast, 18 kilometers (11 mi.) east of Nice,
France, and is surrounded on three sides by France. Monaco is
divided into four sections: Monaco-Ville, the old city on a rocky
promontory extending into the Mediterranean; La Condamine, the
section along the port; Monte-Carlo, the principal residential and
resort area; and Fontvieille, a newly constructed area reclaimed
from the sea.
The principality is noted for its beautiful natural scenery and
mild, sunny climate. The average minimum temperature in January and
February is 8oC (47oF); in July and August the average maximum
temperature is 26oC (78oF).
In July 2008, Monaco's population was estimated at 32,796, with an
estimated average growth rate for 2007 of 0.375%.
French is the official language; English, Italian, and Monegasque (a
blend of French and Italian) also are spoken. The literacy rate is
99%. Roman Catholicism is the official religion, with freedom of
other religions guaranteed by the constitution. |
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Founded in 1215 as a colony of Genoa, Monaco has been ruled by the
House of Grimaldi since 1297, except when under French control from
1789 to 1814. Designated as a protectorate of Sardinia from 1815
until 1860 by the Treaty of Vienna, Monaco's sovereignty was
recognized by the Franco-Monegasque Treaty of 1861. The Prince of
Monaco was an absolute ruler until a constitution was promulgated in
1911.
In July 1918, a treaty was signed providing for limited French
protection over Monaco. The treaty, formally noted in the Treaty of
Versailles, established that Monegasque policy would be aligned with
French political, military, and economic interests.
A new constitution, proclaimed in 1962, abolished capital
punishment, provided for female suffrage, and established a Supreme
Court to guarantee fundamental liberties.
In 1993, Monaco became an official member of the United Nations with
full voting rights. It joined the Council of Europe in 2004.
Three months after the death of his father, Prince Rainier III, on
April 6, Prince Albert II formally acceded to the throne on July 12,
2005. |
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