le+Monaco

**le Monaco** 

Motto: "Deo Juvante." //With God's Help (latin)// Population: 30,539

**Geography**
-Monaco is one of the smallest independent countries, second behind the Vatican City. -The country consists of hills, and is about nine miles east of Nice. -Mont Agel is the highest point in Monaco, 3,766 feet above sea level. -France and the Mediterranean Sea are the only bodies that surround Monaco. -Monaco has much plantlife and natural vegitation, thanks to its sea conditions. -Monaco has always been separated into four different parts. These parts (quartiers) are -Monaco-Ville, La Condamine, Monte Carlo, and Fontvieille. -Monaco has a very humid, tropical-ish climate. Very warm, dry summers and mild, damp winters. Also very breezy. Snow and frost are extremely rare in the winter, maybe every ten years.

- Monaco consists mostly people of Italian and French ethnic groups. Most people are Roman Catholic, and church plays a very important roles in the lives of the people. -English, French and Italian are the most commonly spoken languages in Monaco. -In accordance with their position to the sea, they are very sea food oriented. -The Monaco goverment is extremely supportive of cultural activities/events. -Monaco's day of Independence is November 19th, and usually consists of parades hosted by the Church.
 * Culture **


 * History **

1294: Francois Grimaldi removes Monaco from rival Italian ruling. "Reclaimed it in the name of the Pope." 1604: Lord Honore II comes into power as Prince of Monaco. 1793: During the French Revolution, Monaco is captured by France. 1861: Monaco sells most of its land to France for money and independence, under the Franco-Monesgasque Treaty. 1863: Prince Charles III establishes a casino, a theater, and many hotels. This would be the start of the Monte-Carlo district. 1911: "Constitutional" Monarchy established in Monaco, which gives the people certain protections (Monesgasque Revl.) 1949: Prince Rainier III marries Grace Kelly. The Grimaldies have been in power in Monaco for over 700 years.

**Tourism** Monaco has many great attractions for people to visit.

An educational oceanography museum and aquarium with reasonable admission. Since the sea setting is so important to the people of Monaco, this is a very cultural experience for visitors.
 * Musee Oceanographique**

You can take a self guided tour of the Prince of Monaco's place of residence. The palace was originally built as a stronghold in 1191. There are fifteen rooms open to the public.
 * Palais du Prince**

Although operas are only presented here for a short time during the year (five or six operas a year), they are well worth the time and money. Also known as Salle Garnier, this opera house was built in the 1870's by Charles Garnier as a mini Paris Opera House. It was built with the purpose of adding a bit of cultural entertainment to the area. This exotic botanical garden includes very gorgeous, tropical plantlife. Since the climate is fairly consistent and the soil stays hydrated, the plants stay in good health pretty much year round. So, the garden is open all year long. Although the visiting hours do vary slightly depending on season.
 * Opé ra de Monte-Carlo**
 * Jardin Exotique**

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Sydney Jaeger