About Monaco:
Officially the Principality of Monaco, this is one of the world’s smallest (second only to the Vatican) and slightly smaller than Central Park in New York City. It is arguably the world’s richest city-state……primarily due to its status as a premier tax haven with no personal income tax, attracting high-net-worth individuals, celebrities, and businesses. Its economy thrives on luxury tourism, banking, and real estate, bolstered by a strategic location on the French Riviera, political stability, and high-profile events like the Formula 1 Grand Prix.
Monaco takes much of its language and traditions from France, which borders it on 3 sides. Catholicism is the official and predominant religion, although religious freedom is enshrined in the constitution. The only city in Monaco is Monte Carlo.
Monaco gained international attention when U.S. actress Grace Kelly married Prince Rainier III of Monaco, becoming Her Serene Highness, Princess Grace of Monaco. The wedding took place with a civil ceremony at the Prince’s Palace on April 18, 1956 and a grand religious ceremony at Saint Nicholas Cathedral the following day, attracting global media attention for its blend of Hollywood glamor and European royalty, becoming known as the “wedding of the century”, after which she retired from her successful Hollywood acting career.
Princess Grace died on September 14, 1982, at age 52, from injuries sustained in a tragic car crash the day before, when she suffered a stroke while driving and lost control of her car, plunging down a mountainside with her daughter Stéphanie (who survived) in the car. She never fully regained consciousness after a second brain hemorrhage in the hospital and passed away, leaving behind a legacy as a beloved royal and Hollywood star.
Catholic Churches in Monaco (Monte Carlo):
Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate (Cathédrale de Notre-Dame-Immaculée): Contains many precious works of the old church that preceded it including a beautiful retable dating from the 16th century as well as a magnificent organ. Many of the Grimaldis (the reigning house of the Principality of Monaco) are buried here, including Grace Kelly.
Church of Saint Devota (Sainte-Dévote Church): Dedicated the Saint Devota, the Patron Saint of Monaco, whose feast is celebrated on January 27.
Saint Nicholas Cathedral: the main cathedral and royal burial site, famous for its white marble facade and hosting royal events like the wedding of Prince Rainier and Grace Kelly.
Traveling to Monaco (Monte Carlo):
By air: There is no airport in Monaco. The nearest airport is Nice (NCE), 14 miles (22km) from Monaco. There is a direct bus service from Nice Airport to Monaco (journey time about 45 minutes).
By ship: Monte Carlo is a popular stop on several major cruise lines.
By train: There is train service to Monaco from Marseille, Nice and other cities.