- General Information
- News & Press Releases
- Defense Products & Services Sectors
- Defense Products & Services
- Companies & Organizations
- Videos
The Genoese built a fortress on the site of present day Monaco in 1215. The current ruling Grimaldi family first seized temporary control in 1297, and again in 1331, but were not able to permanently secure their holding until 1419. Economic development was spurred in the late 19th century with a railroad linkup to France and the opening of a casino. Since then, the principality's mild climate, splendid scenery, and gambling facilities have made Monaco world famous as a tourist and recreation center.
Population: 30,508.
note: immigrants make up more than 60% of the total population, according to UN data (2013)
Nationality: noun: Monegasque(s) or Monacan(s), adjective: Monegasque or Monacan.
Ethnic groups: French 47%, Monegasque 16%, Italian 16%, other 21%.
Languages: French (official), English, Italian, Monegasque.
Religions: Roman Catholic 90% (official), other 10%.
GDP: $ 5 748 000 000.00 (2011).
No regular military forces; Directorate of Public Security. Defense is the responsibility of France.
Capital: Monaco
Location: Western Europe, bordering the Mediterranean Sea on the southern coast of France, near the border with Italy. Second-smallest independent state in the world (after Holy See - Vatican); smallest country with a coastline; almost entirely urban.
Geographic coordinates:
43 44 N, 7 24 E
Area:
total: 2 sq km
land: 2 sq km
water: 0 sq km
Land boundaries:
total: 6 km
border countries: France 6 km.
Coastline: 4.1 km.
Natural resources: none.
