Monaco is one of the world’s oldest monarchies, dating back in 1297. It’s a fascinating and glamorous place that has been featured in numerous books and movies (three James Bond movies alone have been filmed there!). It’s also home of the legendary Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix. 

Monaco’s official language is French but it also has its own language, Monégasque which is taught in schools and can be seen on street signs and official announcements. 

While on one hand Monaco is the second smallest country in the world, it is also one of the most densely populated, with almost 10% of it’s population living in Monte Carlo. Monaco has a truly multicultural and multilingual population. Only a little over 20 percent of people living in the country are originally from Monaco. The rest of its residents come from France (30%), Italy (19%), United Kingdom (8%), and many other countries. 

Monaco holds the record for the world’s highest average life expectancy at 85.8 years. One of Monaco’s most iconic landmarks is the Casino de Monte-Carlo. Prince Albert, the current Head of State, is a former Olympian, having competed in five Winter Olympics as part of the Monaco bobsledding team. He is also the only Head of State that has been to both the North and South Pole!

Monaco’s national dish is called Barbagiuan, which is a savory pastry filled with Swiss chard and ricotta and is commonly eaten on Monaco’s national day, November 19th.  

Monaco is a beautiful country worth visiting!