Wikijunior:Europe/Monaco

Monaco is a tiny country (the second smallest in the world) located in southern Europe. It shares a border only with France. The capital city is Monte Carlo. Monaco is not part of the European Union but it has a very close relationship with European countries and uses the Euro as its currency.

Monaco's History
The Grimaldi family has ruled over Monaco since 1297 and the state's sovereignty was officially recognized by the Franco-Monegasque Treaty of 1861. Despite being independent, Monaco's defense is still the responsibility of France.

Monaco's Geography
Monaco is the smallest French-speaking country in the world. It had a total area of 1.95 square kilometres (0.75 sq mi) but after expansion into the sea its area is now 2.05 km2. Monaco is noted for its beautiful, hilly, rugged, and rocky natural scenery and its sunny Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.

Because of Monaco's small size there are no mountains or lakes within the country. The highest point is 163 metres on the southern slopes of Mont Agel, although the highest parts of this mountain are located in France.

Monaco's People
The largest proportion of residents are French nationals, followed by Monegasque, and Italians. French is the only official language, but Italian, English, and the two local languages, Monégasque and Occitan, are also spoken. The literacy rate is 99%.

As in nearby France and Italy, most people in Monaco are Christians, mainly Roman Catholic. After Israel, Monaco has the highest number of Jews as a percentage of its population. Monaco has the highest HDI rating in the world. HDI (Human Development Index) is a list of countries sorted into order measuring life expectancy, income, health, education, happiness, crime and other factors. Monaco is a popular base for rich people from around the world because of no income taxes. The enormous success of the Monte Carlo Casino provides income to Monaco and its Royal Family meaning residents pay less taxes.

Monaco's Sights
Monaco is well-known around the world for being a place for the rich and famous. Expensive and luxurious resorts, hotels and apartments as well as low taxes make the country a popular location for the richest people in the world. The Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix is famous too and attracts many tourists. The Monte Carlo Casino attracts gamblers from around the world.

The country is home to several large marinas for luxury yachts, sandy beaches and restaurants specialising in French and Italian cuisine.