Monaco is the second smallest country in the world behind the Vatican City, and covers an area of less than a square mile. It is located on the southern coast of France and is not all that far from Nice. Monte Carlo is not the capital city but is actually a ‘district’ of the city of Monaco. A large part of the land mass is actually a rock upon which the ruling Grimaldi family have built their castle. The Grimaldi’s came to power almost 800 years ago when they took over a Monk fortress, and they transformed Monaco into principality in 1338. The city is a playground to the rich and famous who are able to take advantage of the massive tax breaks offered to its residents. It is the most expensive city in all of Europe and a tiny studio apartment can set you back over a million US dollars. Monaco is very popular with high stakes gamblers and its Casino is one of the most famous in the world.
Fancy going to this race? Monaco Grand Prix Tickets