Last Updated:

2024-02-17 08:05:12

Monaco

Sovereign city-state, country, and microstate on the French Riviera

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Sovereign city-state, country, and microstate on the French Riviera

Monaco, a microstate on the French Riviera, is a wealthy city-state with a small population. Governed as a constitutional monarchy, it is known for its luxurious lifestyle, tourism, and banking sector. Monaco is a tax haven with no personal income tax and is famous for its high number of millionaires. The principality is not part of the EU but uses the euro as its currency and participates in certain EU policies. Monaco is also renowned for hosting the Monaco Grand Prix and being a hub for marine conservation research.

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476

Monaco under Roman Control

Monaco remained under Roman control until the collapse of the Western Roman Empire in 476.

1075

Monks of Saint-Pons in Nice

Monaco was damaged by the Saracens in the 8th century and rebuilt by the monks of Saint-Pons in Nice, who held it territorially starting from 1075.

1191

Grant of Suzerainty to Genoa

In 1191, Holy Roman Emperor Henry VI granted suzerainty over Monaco to the city of Genoa.

1215-06-10

Monaco taken by the Genoese

In 1215, Monaco was taken by the Genoese. The Grimaldi family laid the first stone of the stronghold that eventually became the Prince's Palace. Fulco des Cassello, their leader, successfully obtained control of the area.

1297-01-08

François Grimaldi penetrates Monaco disguised as a Franciscan monk

On January 8, 1297, François Grimaldi, disguised as a Franciscan monk, successfully infiltrated the stronghold of Monaco.

1301

Grimaldis lose control of Monaco

In 1301, the Grimaldi family lost control of Monaco.

1309

Succession of François Grimaldi by Rainier I

At his death in 1309, François Grimaldi was succeeded by his cousin, Rainier I.

1419

Year of Monaco's Independence

According to the United States CIA Factbook, 1419 is recorded as the year of Monaco's independence.

1454

Death of Jean I and succession by Catalan

Jean I died in 1454 and was succeeded by his son, Catalan.

1489

Charles I becomes the first Lord of Monaco

In 1489, Charles I reconquers the Rock and buys back property of the Spinolas, allies of the Ghibellines, as well as the domains of Menton and Roquebrune. This acquisition leads to Charles I becoming the first Lord of Monaco.

1507

Recognition of Monaco's sovereignty by Charles VIII and the Duke of Savoy

In 1507, the King of France, Charles VIII, and the Duke of Savoy officially recognize the sovereignty of Monaco. This recognition solidifies Monaco's status as an independent entity.

1512

Louis XII recognizes Monaco's independence

In 1512, Louis XII, the King of France, officially acknowledged the independence of Monaco.

1524

Monaco placed under the protection of Spain

Disputes with French authorities led to Monaco being placed under the protection of Spain in 1524, resulting in financial burdens for the Principality.

1525

Monaco placed under Spanish protectorate by Augustin I

In 1525, Augustin I, in conflict with French authorities, placed Monaco under the protection of the Spanish ruler, Charles-Quint.

1612

Honoré II styling himself as 'Prince' of Monaco

In 1612, Honoré II began to refer to himself as the 'Prince' of Monaco, solidifying the princely title within the Grimaldi family. This change in title signified a higher level of authority and status for Monaco.

1633

Recognition of independent sovereignty of Monaco by Honoré II

In 1633, Honoré II, Prince of Monaco, secured recognition of Monaco's independent sovereignty from Spain and later from Louis XIII of France.

1641-09-14

Treaty of Péronne signed between Honoré II and Louis XIII

After a decade of negotiations and with the help of Richelieu, Honoré II and Louis XIII signed the Treaty of Péronne, acknowledging the sovereign rights of Monaco.

1641-11-17

French Kingdom grants equality of rank to Prince of Monaco

In 1641, the French Kingdom granted the Prince of Monaco and his descendants an equality of rank with the highest French nobles, establishing a protective friendship with the Principality of Monaco.

1662

Death of Prince Honoré II of Monaco

In 1662, Prince Honoré II of Monaco passed away. He was known for continually making improvements to the Prince's Palace during his reign.

1731

Louise Hippolyte's Reign

In 1731, Louise Hippolyte reigned for 10 months in Monaco. Her husband, Jacques de Goyon, Sire of, took the Regency during this period.

1733-11-07

Jacques I abdicates in favor of his son Honoré III

On November 7, 1733, Jacques I relinquished his position in favor of his 13-year-old son, Honoré III. This marked a transition of power within the monarchy of Monaco.

1776

Monaco's Independence under King of France's Protection

In 1776, Monaco was a sovereign and independent country under the military protection of King Louis XVI of France when the United States declared independence from Great Britain.

1789

Suppression of feudal rights by the French Constituent Assembly

The suppression of feudal rights by the French Constituent Assembly in 1789 seized all of the Prince's monetary possessions, placing the royal family in a grave financial predicament.

1793-02-15

Monaco annexed by France under the name of Fort Hercule

On February 15, 1793, Monaco was annexed by France and renamed Fort Hercule. This event had significant implications for the sovereignty and governance of Monaco.

1806-07-12

Monaco Independence

Monaco gained independence from the French Empire on July 12, 1806.

1814-05-30

First Treaty of Paris Restores Monaco's Rights

The first Treaty of Paris signed on May 30, 1814, restored Monaco and its Princes to their rights as they were before January 1, 1793.

1815

Monaco becomes a protectorate of the Kingdom of Sardinia

In 1815, after the Congress of Vienna, Monaco was established as a protectorate of the Kingdom of Sardinia. This marked a shift in Monaco's governance until it was ceded to France in 1860.

1817

Creation of Compagnie des Carabiniers du Prince

The Compagnie des Carabiniers du Prince was established by Prince Honoré IV in 1817 to protect the principality and the princely family. It consists of 116 officers and men, with officers mostly having served in the French Army.

1846

Drafting of the plan for casino gambling during Florestan I's reign

The plan for casino gambling was formulated during the rule of Florestan I in 1846.

1848-03-20

Monaco placed under the protectorate of the King of Sardinia

The second Treaty of Paris in 1848 places Monaco under the protectorate of the King of Sardinia, leading to challenging times for the local population due to the less advantageous terms of the treaty.

1856

Menton and Roquebrune proclaim independence under Sardes' protectorate

In 1856, Menton and Roquebrune declare themselves independent and seek protection under the Sardes, breaking away from previous affiliations.

1858

Opening of Le Grand Casino de Monte Carlo

Le Grand Casino de Monte Carlo was inaugurated in 1858, attracting tourist traffic due to the newly built French railway system.

1860

Official Language Change in Monaco

In 1860, Italian was replaced by French as the official language in Monaco due to the annexation of the surrounding County of Nice to France following the Treaty of Turin.

1861

Establishment of Monaco as a constitutional monarchy

Monaco became a constitutional monarchy in 1861.

1861-01-08

Independence of Monaco

Monaco gained independence from the French Empire on January 8, 1861.

1861-01-08

Monaco Constitution Day

Monaco adopted its first constitution on January 8, 1861, establishing a constitutional monarchy.

1861-02-02

Charles III ascends to the throne of Monaco

On February 2, 1861, Charles III becomes the ruler of Monaco, taking the throne and assuming leadership of the principality.

1861-02-18

Monaco Constitution Promulgated

The Constitution of Monaco was promulgated on February 18, 1861, establishing a constitutional monarchy.

1861-02-20

Monaco Constitution

The Constitution of Monaco was established on February 20, 1861, solidifying the principality's governance.

1861-02-23

Independence of Monaco

Monaco gained independence from the Kingdom of Sardinia on February 23, 1861.

1861-02-23

Monaco National Day

Monaco celebrates its sovereignty and independence on February 23, 1861.

1861-03-17

Independence of Monaco

Monaco gained independence from the Kingdom of Sardinia on 17th March 1861.

1861-03-20

Monaco gains independence from France

On March 20, 1861, Monaco gained independence from French control. This event marked the sovereignty of Monaco as a separate principality.

1861-07-01

Monaco Constitution Day

On July 1, 1861, Monaco adopted its first constitution, establishing a framework for governance and the rights of its citizens.

1862

Opening of the initial casino in La Condamine

In 1862, the first casino in Monaco was opened in La Condamine, but it was not successful. Subsequent relocations led to the establishment of the casino in Monte Carlo's area known as 'Les Spelugues'.

1863

Opening of the Monte Carlo Casino by Societé des Bains de Mer

The famous Monte Carlo Casino was opened in 1863 by Societé des Bains de Mer. This casino played a significant role in boosting Monaco's economy due to its ideal location and appeal to European visitors.

1864

Establishment of Hôtel de Paris in Monte Carlo

In 1864, Charles III of Monaco established the Hôtel de Paris adjacent to the casino. This elite palace hotel offers luxurious accommodations and is a prominent landmark in Monte Carlo.

1865-05-19

Louis Borg appointed as Consul to the United States

Louis Borg was appointed as the consul to the United States by the Prince of Monaco on May 19, 1865. It took nearly a year for Borg to present his official credentials to the United States Government, as he had to obtain special authority from Emperor Napoleon III to also hold the post of Monégasque consul.

1866-05

Louis Borg fully accredited as Consul for the United States

In May 1866, Louis Borg was fully accredited by the United States as consul for Monaco. He had obtained the necessary dispensation from Emperor Napoleon III to hold the post of Monégasque consul, in addition to his role as the Chancellor of the French Consulate in New York.

1868

Railway connection to Paris

In the late 19th century, Monaco established a railway connection to Paris, further boosting its economic development. This transportation link facilitated easier access for visitors and trade.

1869

End of tax collection from Monegasques due to casino revenue

By 1869, the casino was generating significant revenue, allowing Monaco to stop collecting taxes from its citizens, a move that attracted wealthy residents from across Europe.

1874-01-30

Establishment of U.S. Consul in Monaco

In 1874, the United States appointed its first consular representative, Emile de Loth, as Consular Agent in Monaco. This appointment came during a period of increased tourism in Monaco, driven by the construction of railways and the establishment of the casino in Monte Carlo.

1878-09

Construction of the Casino and the Salle Garnier in Monaco

The Casino and the Salle Garnier were built in Monaco in 1878-1879 by architects Charles Garnier and Jules Dutrou. The architecture style of Belle Époque with decorative elements like turrets, balconies, and multi-colored ceramics was used to create a fantasy of pleasure and luxury.

1879-01-25

Inauguration of Opéra de Monte-Carlo

The Opéra de Monte-Carlo, built by architect Charles Garnier as a replica of the Paris Opera House, was inaugurated on January 25, 1879. The first performance featured Sarah Bernhardt dressed as a nymph.

1881

Adoption of Red and White Colors for the Flag of Monaco

In 1881, Monaco officially adopted the colors red and white for its national flag.

1887-03-15

Creation of the Diocese of Monaco

On March 15, 1887, the Diocese of Monaco was established.

1889

Albert I Becomes Prince of Monaco

In 1889, Albert I, known for his scientific research in oceanography and paleontology, assumed the role of Prince of Monaco. He later established the Oceanographic Museum, a renowned center for oceanography.

1891

Formation of the Automobile Club of Monaco

The Automobile Club of Monaco was founded in 1891.

1906

Creation of the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology

In 1906, the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology was established.

1910-03-29

Foundation of the Oceanographic Institute

On March 29, 1910, the Oceanographic Institute was founded.

1911-01-05

Inauguration of the Oceanographic Museum

On January 5, 1911, the Oceanographic Museum, a part of the Oceanographic Institute, was inaugurated.

1913-10-20

Reception of Monégasque Prince by U.S. President

Prince Albert I of Monaco was received at the White House by U.S. President Woodrow Wilson on October 20, 1913.

1918-07

Treaty of Versailles and French Protection

Part of the Treaty of Versailles in July 1918 provided for limited French protection over Monaco, aligning the Principality's international policy with French political, military, and economic interests.

1922

First Automobile Rally in Monte-Carlo

In 1922, the first Automobile Rally took place in Monte-Carlo.

1923

Birth of Prince Rainier III

In 1923, Prince Rainier III, the future ruler of Monaco, was born.

1924

AS Monaco FC

AS Monaco FC is one of the major football clubs in Monaco, competing in Ligue 1. The club has a successful history in French football, winning Ligue 1 eight times and reaching the UEFA Champions League Final in 2004.

1925

Dedication of St Paul's Church in Monaco

St Paul's Church, an Anglican church located in Avenue de Grande Bretagne in Monte Carlo, was dedicated in 1925. It has a formal membership of 135 Anglican residents in Monaco and serves a larger number of Anglicans temporarily in the country, including tourists.

1928

AS Monaco Basket Foundation

AS Monaco Basket, founded in 1928, plays in the EuroLeague and LNB Pro A, winning multiple championships.

1929

Monaco Grand Prix

The Monaco Grand Prix has been held annually in the streets of Monaco since 1929. It is considered one of the most prestigious automobile races globally, with a challenging circuit that includes tight corners and elevation changes.

1933

Inauguration of the Exotic Garden

In 1933, the Exotic Garden in Monaco was inaugurated, showcasing a diverse collection of rare and exotic plant species.

1934

Publication of Histoire de la principauté de Monaco by Léon-Honoré Labande

In 1934, Léon-Honoré Labande published 'Histoire de la principauté de Monaco', a historical book about the principality of Monaco.

1936

Monaco Issuing Own Stamps

In 1936, Monaco started issuing its own stamps through the Office des Timbres-Poste, gaining more autonomy in postal services.

1939-02-15

Treaty of Extradition between US and Monaco

On February 15, 1939, a treaty of extradition was signed between the United States and the Principality of Monaco. This treaty aimed at facilitating the extradition of individuals between the two countries.

1942-11-11

Italian Army Invasion of Monaco

On 11 November 1942, the Italian Army invaded and occupied Monaco, leading to a period of occupation and control over the principality.

1943-09

German Occupation of Monaco and Deportation of Jewish Population

In September 1943, following Mussolini's fall in Italy, the German Army occupied Monaco and initiated the deportation of the Jewish population, including notable figures like René Blum, leading to tragic consequences.

1944-09-03

Liberation of Monaco

Monaco was liberated on 3 September 1944 after the German troops retreated, marking the end of the occupation and the restoration of sovereignty.

1948

Establishment of Red Cross of Monaco

The Red Cross of Monaco was established in 1948.

1948

Foundation of Association Culturelle Israélite de Monaco

The Association Culturelle Israélite de Monaco was founded in 1948 and is housed in a converted building in Monte Carlo, serving as a synagogue, a community Hebrew school, and a kosher food shop for the Jewish community in Monaco.

1949-05-09

Prince Rainier III Succeeds Prince Louis II

On 9th May 1949, Prince Rainier III succeeded his father, Prince Louis II, becoming the ruler of Monaco.

1952-03-31

Agreement on Passport Visas

An agreement on passport visas for United States and Monégasque citizens entered into force on March 31, 1952. This agreement streamlined the visa application process for citizens of both countries.

1956-04-18

Wedding of Prince Rainier III and Grace Kelly

Prince Rainier III of Monaco marries American actress Grace Kelly in a lavish ceremony, captivating the world with their fairytale romance.

1956-04-19

Prince Rainier III marries Grace Kelly

On April 19, 1956, Prince Rainier III married the American Actress Grace Kelly, which garnered global attention and established strong ties between the United States and Monaco.

1958-03

Birth of Princess Caroline

Princess Caroline, the eldest child of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace, is born, bringing joy to the royal family and the people of Monaco.

1959

Suspension of Monaco's constitution

In 1959, Prince Rainier III suspended part of Monaco's constitution and dissolved the National Council due to a budget disagreement.

1961

Birth of Prince Albert

His Royal Highness, Prince Albert II of Monaco, is born, marking the continuation of the Grimaldi dynasty and the future of the principality.

1962-12-17

First International Television Festival

Monaco hosts its inaugural International Television Festival, showcasing the best of television programming and fostering cultural exchange in the industry.

1963-05-18

New Constitution of Monaco

Monaco adopts a new constitution, shaping the governance and legal framework of the principality to meet the evolving needs of its people and institutions.

1965-02-01

Fiscal and Customs Agreement between Monaco and France

Monaco and France sign a significant fiscal and customs agreement, strengthening their economic ties and cooperation for mutual benefit.

1966

Division of Monaco into reserved sectors and wards

In 1966, Monaco was divided into reserved sectors and wards for town planning purposes. The number and boundaries of these sectors and wards have been modified over time.

1967

Takeover of Casino Operations by the Principality

In 1967, the operations of the casino in Monaco were taken over by the principality. This marked a significant change in the management of the iconic establishment.

1971

Birth of Princess Stephanie

Princess Stephanie of Monaco is born, completing the royal family of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace with her unique charm and personality.

1972

End of construction of Fontvieille

In 1972, the construction of Fontvieille was completed, with 2.94 acres reclaimed from the sea.

1974

Opening of the National Museum

The National Museum in Monaco was opened to the public in 1974.

1981

Elevation of Diocese to Archdiocese of Monaco

In 1981, the diocese that has been in existence since the mid-19th century was elevated to a non-metropolitan archbishopric known as the Archdiocese of Monaco, remaining exempt and directly subject to the Holy See. The patron saint of the archdiocese is Saint Devota.

1982-09-14

Death of Princess Grace

Princess Grace of Monaco tragically passed away in a car accident on September 14, 1982.

1993-05-28

Admission of Monaco into the United Nations

On May 28, 1993, Monaco was admitted as a member state into the United Nations.

1994

Foundation of International School of Monaco

The International School of Monaco was founded in 1994, providing education to students in the principality.

1996-06

Monaco obtains its own telephone country code

In June 1996, Monaco was assigned its own telephone country code, which is '377'.

1997

Foundation of Audiovisual Institute of Monaco

The Audiovisual Institute of Monaco was founded in 1997 with the aim of preserving audiovisual archives and showcasing Monaco's representation in cinema.

1998

OECD Report on Tax Havens

In 1998, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) issued a report on the consequences of financial systems of known tax havens. Monaco did not appear in the list of these territories until 2004.

1999

Celebration of the 700th Anniversary of the Grimaldi Reign

In 1999, a celebration was held to commemorate the 700th Anniversary of the Grimaldi Reign.

2000

Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering (FATF) statement on Monaco

In 2000, FATF stated that Monaco's anti-money laundering system is comprehensive, but there were difficulties in international investigations on serious crimes related to tax matters. Monaco's FIU, SICCFIN, faced resource shortages, and Monaco authorities promised to provide additional resources.

2001

Introduction of euro coins in Monaco

In 2001, Monaco began minting euro coins with its own designs, allowed by an arrangement with the Council of the European Union. The first euro coins from Monaco bear the year 2001.

2002

Treaty Between France and Monaco

In 2002, a new treaty between France and Monaco clarified the principality's independence in the absence of heirs, ensuring its status as an independent nation while maintaining France's responsibility for its military defence.

2003

Georges Marsan Becomes Mayor of Monaco

Since 2003, Georges Marsan has been serving as the mayor of Monaco, overseeing the city affairs through the Communal Council. The Communal Council, consisting of 14 elected members, manages the municipality's administration.

2004-10-05

Monaco's Accession to the Council of Europe

On October 5, 2004, Monaco's Crown Prince Albert represented the Principality at the ceremony marking Monaco's accession to the Council of Europe. He delivered a speech in the Assembly Chamber.

2005-04-06

Death of Prince Rainier III

On April 6, 2005, Prince Rainier III passed away.

2006

Change in Monégasque euro coin design

After Prince Rainier's death in 2006, Monaco changed the design of its euro coins to feature the effigy of Prince Albert, marking a significant shift in the coin's appearance.

2009-06-25

Monaco stage of the Global Champions Tour

The Monaco stage of the Global Champions Tour, an International Show-jumping event, took place between 25 and 27 June in 2009.

2009-07-10

Solar1 Monte Carlo Cup Inauguration

Monaco inaugurated the Solar1 Monte Carlo Cup, a series of ocean races exclusively for solar-powered boats, from 10 to 12 July in 2014.

2009-09-08

Tax Information Exchange Agreement

On September 8, 2009, the United States and the Principality of Monaco signed a Tax Information Exchange Agreement. The agreement allows for the exchange of information related to tax matters between the two nations.

2010-03-11

Agreement between U.S. Department of The Treasury and Principality of Monaco

An agreement was signed between the U.S. Department of The Treasury and the Principality of Monaco, represented by Neal S. Wolin and Franck Biancheri respectively, on March 11, 2010.

2011-07-02

Prince Albert II marries Miss Charlene Wittstock

On 1st and 2nd July 2011, Prince Albert II of Monaco married Miss Charlene Wittstock.

2012

Monaco's Most Expensive Real Estate Market

In 2012, Monaco had the world's most expensive real estate market, with prices reaching $58,300 per square metre.

2013

Creation and dissolution of additional wards in Monaco

In 2013, three additional wards were created in Monaco - Saint Michel, La Colle, and Les Révoires. However, most of Saint Michel became part of Monte Carlo again, while La Colle and Les Révoires were merged to form the Jardin Exotique ward.

2014-12-10

Birth of Prince Jacques Honoré Rainier and Princess Gabriella Thérèse Marie

On December 10th, 2014, Prince Jacques Honoré Rainier and Princess Gabriella Thérèse Marie were born.

2015-07

Festivities for the 10 years reign of HSH Prince Albert II

In July 2015, celebrations were held to mark the 10-year reign of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco.

2016

Monaco's Most Expensive Apartment

Forbes valued the world's most expensive apartment, a penthouse at the Odeon Tower in Monaco, at $335 million in 2016.

2017

Formation of Monaco Parish of Charismatic Episcopal Church

The Monaco Parish of the Charismatic Episcopal Church, known as the Parish of St Joseph, was formed in 2017 and holds its meetings in the Reformed Church's Rue Louis Notari building.

2018-02-27

Snowfall in Monaco and Monte Carlo

On 27th February 2018, Monaco and Monte Carlo experienced a rare snowfall. This event is noteworthy as snowfalls are extremely rare in the region, occurring once or twice every ten years.

2019-04

Monaco's National Rugby Team Ranking

As of April 2019, Monaco's national rugby team is ranked 101st in the World Rugby Rankings.

2020-02-29

First COVID-19 case in Monaco

On February 29, 2020, Monaco reported its first case of COVID-19, with the infected individual being initially treated at Princess Grace Hospital Centre and later transferred to Nice University Hospital in France.

2020-09-01

Appointment of Prime Minister in Monaco

On 1 September 2020, Prince Albert II of Monaco appointed a French citizen, Pierre Dartout, as the Prime Minister of Monaco. This appointment marked a significant political decision in the governance of the principality.

2020-09-03

Launch of Monégasque Satellite OSM-1 CICERO

On 3 September 2020, Monaco launched its first satellite, OSM-1 CICERO, into space from French Guiana aboard a Vega rocket. The satellite was constructed in Monaco by Orbital Solutions Monaco.

2022-04-22

Prince Albert of Monaco Visits Sassi di Matera

Prince Albert of Monaco visited the Sassi di Matera on April 22, 2022, exploring the ancient districts.

2023-06-05

Monaco Officially Known as Principality

Monaco, officially known as the Principality of Monaco, is a sovereign city-state and microstate located on the French Riviera in Western Europe.

2023-07-01

Monaco's Estimated Population in 2023

As of 1 July 2023, Monaco's population was estimated to be 36,297 according to the United Nations.

2024-04-10

Auger-Aliassime avoids Round 2 match in Monaco against Alcaraz

Auger-Aliassime did not have to play his Round 2 match in Monaco against Alcaraz, who was sidelined due to a forearm injury.