Monaco - Burnet Middle School

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CultureGrams
World Edition
Principality of
2014
Monaco
During Roman occupation, Monaco was also known to be
a regular stop for Phoenician and Carthaginian sailors. After
the fall of the Roman Empire in the 5th century AD, the
region was regularly visited by the Saracens until the 10th
century.
Genoese Rule and the Grimaldis
In 1215, the Genoese established a fort in the main section of
Monaco, now known as the Rock, or Monaco Ville. Later in
the century, the Grimaldis, a prominent family expelled from
Genoa, took refuge in the region. In 1297, Francois Grimaldi
and a band of supporters disguised as Franciscan monks took
control of the fort on the Rock.
Possession of Monaco went back and forth between
different Genoese families for over 30 years until the
Grimaldis finally took permanent possession in 1341. From
1525 until 1641, Monaco was under the protection of Spain.
During this period, Monaco became a principality, with its
reigning sovereign granted the title of prince.
French Protection
During the French Revolution, Monaco was annexed by
France and called Fort Hercules. Monaco regained
independence from France in 1814, near the end of the
Napoleonic Wars. The following year, it was placed under the
protection of the King of Sardinia. In 1861, the principality
ceded the nearby towns of Menton and Roquebrune—which
represented 80 percent of Monaco's land mass at the time—to
France in exchange for a formal treaty establishing its
independence and making France its protector.
Tourism, Gambling, and World War II
In the decades that followed, Monaco laid the foundations of
the industries that would become its hallmarks: upscale
tourism and casino gambling. In 1864, the Hotel de Paris was
BACKGROUND
Land and Climate
Area (sq. mi.): 1
Area (sq. km.): 2
The Principality of Monaco is located on the Riviera,
surrounded by the French Alps on one side and the
Mediterranean Sea on the other. It has slightly more than 2.5
miles (4 kilometers) of coastline. The principality's total area
is just over twice the size of the gardens at the Palace of
Versailles in France and about half the size of Central Park in
New York City. It is the second smallest country in the world,
after Vatican City. Monaco is divided into five districts, or
quartiers: Monaco-Ville, La Condamine, Fontvieille,
Moneghetti, and Monte Carlo.
Monaco has a Mediterranean climate, with dry, hot
summers and mild winters. The average summer temperature
is 79°F (26°C), while in the winter it is 46°F (8°C).
Temperatures rarely fall below freezing. There are typically
30 inches (76 cm) of rainfall annually, and over three hundred
days a year when there is no rainfall at all.
History
Roman Occupation
Some of the first inhabitants of Monaco were most likely
people from nearby Liguria, in modern-day Italy. The name
Monaco, once a Greek port, comes from the Greek word
monoïkos, which means “alone.” The Romans were interested
in the area because it was an ideal location for a port on the
Riviera and easily defendable. Julius Caeser departed from
Monaco on his way to fight against the Greeks.
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built in Monte Carlo, named after Charles III, the ruling
prince at the time. In 1878, the Monte Carlo Casino was built,
and in the following year, the Opera House.
During the reign of Albert I, Charles III's son, the
Automobile Club and the Oceanographic Institute were
founded. After Albert I passed away in 1922, he was
succeeded by Louis II. Under Louis's reign, the first Monaco
Grand Prix took place, and the Jardin Exotique (Exotic
Garden) was opened. Monaco was initially occupied by Italy,
then Germany, during World War II.
Princess Grace and Development
In 1949, Prince Rainier III ascended to the throne. Prince
Rainier later met American actress Grace Kelly; they married
in 1956. Under Prince Rainier and Princess Grace, Monaco
became renowned for both business and glamour. A new
constitution was written in 1962, which extended the vote to
women, established a supreme court, and abolished capital
punishment.
A major project was started in 1971 to reclaim land from
the Mediterranean in order to create the Fontvieille district
and provide neighboring Cap d'Ail, in France, with its own
port. Grace Kelly helped establish numerous cultural and
philanthropic organizations and events. She attracted many
famous and wealthy people from the United States and abroad
to enjoy life in the principality. Tragedy struck in 1982 when
Princess Grace was killed in a car accident.
Relations with Europe and Major Challenges
Monaco became a member of the United Nations in 1993. In
2004, the principality became a member of the Council of
Europe. After over 55 years as the sovereign prince, Prince
Rainier III passed away in 2005. His son, Prince Albert II,
succeeded him. Major challenges for Monaco include
managing growth, fostering business development, dealing
with environmental challenges, and promoting transparency
in its banking system.
Menton, Beausoleil, La Turbie, and Nice, or the Italian cities
of Bordhigera and Ventimiglia.
Language
The official language of Monaco is French, but Italian and
English are widely spoken. Many other languages also can be
heard on the street. People who live in Monaco are frequently
bilingual or trilingual.
The local language, Monégasque, is spoken by less than
one-fifth of the population, principally the older generations.
But the everyday use of Monégasque is decreasing as older
generations die. Like the ruling Grimaldi family, Monégasque
has its origins in Genoa. It is a combination of French and
Italian dialects.
Monégasque is still a required subject in elementary
school and is optional after that. French is the language of
instruction. English is taught as a second language beginning
in primary school.
Religion
Over 90 percent of the population in Monaco is Roman
Catholic, the state religion of the principality, but most people
do not attend church regularly. They celebrate various
religious holidays and attend Mass once or twice a year.
In addition to the Roman Catholic Cathedral on the Rock,
there are several other Catholic Churches. There are also three
Protestant churches and a Jewish temple. Catholic religious
instruction is required throughout elementary school unless
the parents request an exemption. Although freedom of
religion is guaranteed by the constitution, no public
proselytizing is allowed.
General Attitudes
Monégasques are more relaxed by nature than their
counterparts in other parts of Europe. Many people move to
the Riviera and Monaco to escape the stressful lifestyle often
tied to long work weeks and lengthy commutes. The warmth
of the sun, the slower pace of life, and a cross-cultural
environment make it an enticing place to live.
Friendships are not easily made, but once they are
established, they tend to be lasting. Many who live in Monaco
are linked through their position as expatriates in a foreign
land. Since over one hundred nationalities are represented in
the principality, there is a great deal of open-mindedness,
curiosity, and tolerance of other cultures. Monégasques see
their country as a cultural crossroads. Historically, people
from all over the world have stopped there on their way to
somewhere else, or they have visited Monaco as a place for
rest and relaxation.
Monégasques value their progress in history from
pre-Roman tribes, farmers, and fishermen to the more recent
era of luxury, tourism, and economic success. It is important
to them that their country is recognized, both locally and
globally, as an independent, sovereign nation. They do not
like to be called French.
THE PEOPLE
Population
Population: 30,500
Population Growth Rate: NA
Urban Population: 100%
About 47 percent of Monaco's population is French. Other
major groups include the Monégasques (16 percent) and
Italians (16 percent). The remaining 21 percent comes from
more than a hundred other countries.
Monaco is one of a small number of countries in the world
where the native population—the Monégasques—is a
minority in their own country. Although the ruling Grimaldi
family traces its roots to Genoa, in Italy, the local
Monégasques are an ethnic blend of Italian and French.
Monaco is the most densely populated nation in the world
and is highly urbanized. More than 33,000 people cross the
border everyday from France and Italy to work in Monaco
because many cannot afford to live in Monaco and there are
not enough residents to fill all of the available jobs. They
come from nearby French cities of Cap d'Ail, Roquebrune,
Personal Appearance
Fashions are generally similar to those in Europe and North
America. Professional attire for men includes jackets and
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Eating
Breakfast is usually simple, featuring juice, coffee, and bread
or a croissant, sometimes with cheese or jam. The morning
meal may be eaten at home or in a café on the way to work.
Mid-morning coffee breaks are common. For other meals, it
is typical for food to be served in courses instead of all at
once.
Eating lunch can take two hours or more, except among
the working population, whose lunchtime is limited to an hour
or less. Mothers often pick their children up from school for
the midday meal, and public schools give students a two-hour
break so they can eat at home with their parents. Many
businesses close at lunchtime to ensure that employees get to
have lunch.
Families usually eat their evening meal after 8 p.m. It is
often lighter than the midday meal. Wine is usually served at
both lunch and dinner. Extended families will often get
together for an afternoon meal on Sundays, which may
include many courses and last most of the afternoon.
A significant portion of the population eats out weekly,
usually on weekends. Tipping is common in restaurants and,
depending on the level of service, will range from simply
leaving the change from a bill (called l'addition in French) to
approximately 10 percent of the total bill. Some restaurants
will automatically add a gratuity to the bill for larger parties.
dress pants with long-sleeve shirts and ties in the winter, or
short-sleeve shirts and dress pants during the hot summer
months. For women, such attire includes dresses or suits.
Business casual wear is also common.
On holidays and weekends, people tend to dress more
casually, but not as casual as in the United States. Walking
around Monaco barefoot, without a shirt, or in swimwear is
not acceptable. There are many formal occasions in Monaco,
so having a tuxedo for men, or a long evening gown for
women is a requirement for those wishing to attend a ball or a
charitable event.
CUSTOMS AND COURTESIES
Greetings
Because of the multicultural composition of the population, a
simple handshake is a commonly accepted greeting. When
both parties know each other well, the local population greets
each other with a kiss on both sides of the cheeks. Both men
and women do this, although men typically only kiss other
men whom they know quite well. Children are expected to
practice this customary greeting with family and good friends.
It is considered polite to say Bonjour (Good day) when
greeting a shopkeeper or someone on the street. Locals
consider it impolite if you do not greet them in this manner. If
the person being greeted is familiar, after saying Bonjour, it is
common to inquire Ça va? (How's it going?) or Comment
allez-vous? (How are you?), to which the person might
respond: Ça va (Fine) or Très bien, merci, et vous? (Very
well, thank you, and you?).
Monégasques use first names to greet one another if they
already know each other. They use a person's title—such as
Monsieur (Mr.), Madame (Mrs.), or Mademoiselle
(Miss)—and surname if the person is unfamiliar.
LIFESTYLE
Family
A typical Monégasque family usually includes parents and
two children, though the trend is toward smaller families.
Since most residents are not originally from Monaco,
extended family often plays a less significant role in daily life
because relatives usually live in a different country. Fathers
and mothers often work outside the home, but balance
between life and work is valued, so families treasure
weekends and holidays.
Children will often start helping with household tasks at
around the age of eight unless a family has hired help, as
many wealthy families do. Kids usually do not have full-time
jobs until they graduate from school.
Gestures
A common gesture, particularly among school children is the
rapid shaking of the right index finger to indicate displeasure
or disagreement. This gesture is often combined with the
puckering of one's lips and a moderately loud clicking sound
made with the mouth. This is often followed by the phrase
Non, Monsieur (or Madame or Mademoiselle). When a
motorcycle passes a car, the rider will often thank the car’s
driver for allowing the cycle to pass by sticking his or her
right foot out to the side.
Housing
Monégasques live primarily in high-rise apartment buildings
because space is at a premium. Apartments range in size from
very small studio apartments to large, multi-level residences
with swimming pools and beautiful views of the sea.
Apartment living in Monaco is very expensive.
Because of the cost of housing, many people who work in
Monaco live in France or Italy. People who have worked in
Monaco for more than ten years may apply to live in a
rent-controlled apartment, but the demand for these
apartments far exceeds the supply, so most of them are
reserved for Monégasque citizens. Home ownership is
attained by the wealthy only.
Visiting
Visiting neighbors and family is quite common. Visits are
usually prearranged and take place in the home, in a café, or
at a park. There are numerous cafés, where people often stop
for a cup of coffee and a croissant or pastry, a quick chat, or a
look at the daily paper on their way to work.
More formal visits, such as joining family, friends, or
neighbors for dinner, are also quite common. Guests often
bring a bottle of wine, flowers, or perhaps a box of
chocolates. Formal meals can last several hours and usually
include several courses. Informal meals are much shorter.
Dating and Marriage
Monégasques tend to date in larger groups when young and in
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smaller groups or as couples when older. Common dating
activities include socializing, shopping, enjoying the beach,
seeing a movie, or perhaps attending one of the annual
festivals on the main port.
Monégasques have similar customs and rights with respect
to marriage as other Europeans. Marriage is considered
important, but it is also common for people to live together
without formally getting married. Couples often marry in
their mid to late 20s and will have a formal wedding in the
church.
A civil wedding has to precede the church ceremony.
Either the bride or groom must have been a resident of
Monaco for at least one month to get married in the church in
Monaco.
Monaco has many small parks and places to walk or relax.
Walkers take an evening stroll along the main port, enjoying
the fresh sea air amidst the yachts and crowded wharf.
The world also comes to Monaco, as the principality plays
host to numerous athletic contests, including the Monaco
Grand Prix, the Monaco International Show Jumping
Championship, and the Monte Carlo Masters (tennis). The
casinos in Monte Carlo attract many visitors, but
Monégasques are not allowed to play in any of the casinos in
the principality.
The Arts
The arts scene in Monaco includes a variety of organizations
and events. The Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra evolved
from the principality's first permanent orchestra, established
in 1863, and has won numerous awards. The Monte Carlo
Ballet Company was founded by Princess Caroline.
Venues such as the Princess Grace Theatre, Rainier III
Auditorium, Grimaldi Forum, and the Opera House have
hosted some of the world's finest musicians, dancers, and
singers. Numerous shows, operas, concerts, and song and
dance spectacles are presented each year by a variety of
performers.
Life Cycle
Although few Monégasques attend church regularly, most
observe traditional Catholic rituals. The birth of a child is
typically celebrated with the mailing of announcements
following the birth. Children are baptized as infants; the
baptism is celebrated with a meal attended by family and
close friends after the ceremony.
As in other Catholic countries, children typically take First
Communion at age 9 or 10. This event is often celebrated
with family and close friends. Teenagers are allowed to drive
motor scooters at age 14 onwards and can receive their
driver's license at age 18. Legally, a child becomes an adult at
age 18.
When a person dies, there is usually a wake and viewing,
followed by a funeral and burial. The cemetery in Monaco
lies on the border with Cap D'Ail.
Holidays
On 27 January, Monégasques honor Saint Dévote, the patron
saint of the principality. Dévote was persecuted and martyred
for her faith in the 4th century. Other important Catholic
holidays include the Holy Week Procession, which starts on
Good Friday and derives from the return of crusaders in the
13th century, and Saint John's Day, a musical celebration in
honor of John the Baptist.
Monégasque National Holiday (19 November) is a
celebration of the sovereignty and independence of Monaco,
marked by fireworks over the port and an opera.
Other holidays include New Year's (1 January), Carnival
(February/March), Easter, Pentecost, Saint Roman (9
August), Immaculate Conception (8 December), and
Christmas (25 December).
Diet
Food in Monaco is a blend of French Provencal and northern
Italian cuisines, with baguettes, olives, herbs, fresh fruit and
vegetables, fish, pizza, and pasta featured prominently. With
its proximity to northern Italy, risotto is also prevalent, as are
truffles and lemons. Pizza is probably the most widely
available dish. Panini (sandwiches) and focaccia (an Italian
flat bread) can be found in many smaller snack bars.
Regional specialties from nearby Nice include Salad
Niçoise (featuring fresh tuna fish or anchovies on a bed of
lettuce, with olives, green peppers, eggs, tomatoes, and
onions) and appetizers such as pissaladière (a small pie made
from anchovies and onions) and socca (a small crêpe-like
snack made from chickpeas). Barbagiuan (a small pastry
made with rice, spinach, leeks, and cheese) is the most
famous Monégasque dish and is usually served as an
appetizer.
SOCIETY
Government
Head of State: Prince Albert II
Head of Government: Min. of State Michel Roger
Capital: Monaco
Monaco is a constitutional monarchy ruled by Prince Albert
II, who ascended to his position after his father passed away
in April 2005. Succession passes to direct and legitimate
descendants of the reigning prince; male heirs take
precedence over female heirs. If the prince has no legitimate
offspring, succession passes through the prince's siblings and
their descendants. A sovereign can take power only after he
or she has reached age 21. The prince represents Monaco in
all relations with foreign powers and is responsible for
ratifying and signing treaties.
The minister of state, who is the head of government,
Recreation
Recreational activities abound in Monaco. Of these, soccer,
sailing, tennis, walking, and swimming are the most popular.
Weekends and summers are often spent enjoying Monaco's
beaches. The nearby mountains offer skiing, hiking, and
mountain climbing.
Many people also enjoy camping. On weekends, members
of cycling clubs spend their afternoons riding bicycles in their
colorful cycling gear. Despite the large number of buildings,
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presides over a four-member Council of Government. Prior to
a constitutional amendment in 2002, the minister of state was
required to be a French national, appointed by the monarch
from among three candidates nominated by the French
government. Since 2002, both French and Monégasque
nationals may be appointed by the monarch, though he must
still consult with the French government. The 24-member
National Council shares legislative authority with the prince.
Matters related to the constitution are decided by the
Supreme Court. Supreme Court justices are also French. Only
citizens of Monaco who are age 18 and older may vote.
workers often go on strike, especially in the late spring when
tourists are starting to return. When there is a train strike,
selected trains and buses usually still operate. The Nice Cote
D'Azur airport and nearby areas in France and Italy are
accessible via train, intercity bus service, taxi, or helicopter.
Most people, including many children, have cellular
phones, making it easy to stay in touch with friends and
family. High-speed internet access is also widely available.
The principality has its own state-run cable television station,
and there are several independent radio stations. There are no
daily newspapers in Monaco, but regional papers provide
news coverage of the principality.
Economy
GDP (PPP) in billions: $5.75
GDP (PPP) per capita: $70,700
Education
Mean Years of Schooling: NA
Monaco became a tourist destination in the 1860s, drawing
visitors from all over the world to its beautiful scenery,
casinos, and mild weather. The principality has since
achieved one of the highest living standards in the world.
Even so, the reigning princes have worked hard to diversify
the economy; as a result, casino revenues now make up less
than 5 percent of all revenues, and tourism accounts for
roughly 13 percent of overall economic activity.
In an attempt to expand its economy, Monaco had begun
work on several major construction projects before the global
financial crisis of 2008, but the projects have since been put
on hold. In 2009, Monaco's economy contracted due to a
sharp drop in tourism, retail, and real estate income. The
country's economy has modestly recovered, but public debt is
increasing amid the weak growth.
Employment in the principality has increased significantly
over the past dozen years as more companies establish a local
presence. The unemployment rate in Monaco is 0 percent.
Over 4,500 companies call Monaco home. The primary
industries include chemicals, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics,
electronics, plastics, shipping, tourism, aquaculture, civil
engineering, environmental research, telecommunications,
and gaming.
There are no personal income taxes (except for French
nationals, who pay French income taxes), and business tax
rates are low. The principality is a banking center for Europe.
Monaco is internationally criticized as a tax haven due to low
taxes and banking secrecy laws. The currency is the euro.
Although not mandatory, most parents send their children to
school starting at age three. Education is compulsory for all
children from ages 6 to 16. The curriculum includes courses
on the history of Monaco, the institutions of the principality,
and the Monégasque language. Bilingual sections in some
schools offer students education in French and part in
English.
At the end of high school, students must take a
baccalaureate exam to determine their eligibility for entrance
to university study. Many students go on to higher education
in Europe or elsewhere. The International University of
Monaco offers degrees in business.
Health
Monaco's healthcare system is considered one of the best in
the world. Everyone employed in Monaco is entitled to free
health care; private healthcare options are also popular. There
are many physicians in the principality who provide excellent
care. Medical fees are fixed by the government, but doctors
have leeway to charge additional fees. The Princess Grace
Hospital is the only public hospital in the principality and has
a very reputable cardio-thoracic center.
AT A GLANCE
Contact Information
Embassy of Monaco, 3400 International Drive NW, Suite
2K-100, Washington, DC 20008; phone (202) 234-1530; web
site www.monaco-usa.org. Monaco Government Tourist and
Convention Bureau, phone (800) 753-9696; web site
www.visitmonaco.com/en.
Transportation and Communications
Internet Users (per 100 people): 75
Cellular Phone Subscriptions (per 100 people): 90
Paved Roads: 100%
Because of Monaco's small size, it is relatively easy to walk
from one end of the principality to the other. There are also
six different municipal bus routes. Because of heavy traffic,
especially during rush hours, some people opt to use small
motor scooters or bikes. Commuting into Monaco can be
difficult, especially for those people coming from France,
because there are only two primary routes into the country
and traffic frequently backs up. Many commuters choose to
travel by bus or by train instead. However, French railway
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Country and Development Data
Capital
Population
Area (sq. mi.)
Area (sq. km.)
Human Development Index
Gender Inequality Index
GDP (PPP) per capita
Adult Literacy
Infant Mortality
Life Expectancy
Currency
CultureGrams
Monaco
30,500 (rank=202)
1 (rank=208)
2
NA
NA
$70,700
99% (male); 99% (female)
1.81 per 1,000 births
NA
Euro
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