Principality of Monaco

• Coat of arms/Flag
• Capital City- Monaco
• Other Settlements –
• Places –
• Languages –
• Religion(s) –
• Government –
• Legislature –
• Current Ruler – Jean I, Lord of Monaco
• Other Notable residents – Catalan, Lord of Monaco

The Principality of Monaco is a sovereign city-state and microstate, located on the French Riviera in Western Europe. France borders the country on three sides while the other side borders the Mediterranean Sea. Its one of the smallest countries in the world. Monaco is quite well known, because of its status as a playground for the rich and famous. Monaco is governed by the House of Grimaldi a monarchy that has ruled for 400 years with the head of state wielding immense political power. Despite Monaco’s independence its defense is the responsibility of France. However, Monaco does maintain small military units. Economic development was spurred with the opening of the country’s first casino, Monte Carlo, and with a road was constructed to Paris. Since then, Monaco’s mild climate, splendid scenery, and gambling facilities have contributed to the principality’s status as a premier recreation center for the rich. In more recent years, it has become a major banking center.