Sunday, September 18, 2011

The Four Main Areas of Monaco

By Cecelia Owens


Monaco is a country, which is officially called as Principality of Monaco and is a sovereign city-state on the French Riviera. Principality of Monaco is governed under a form of constitutional monarchy with Prince Albert II as the head of the country. This is a small country with total area of 0.8 square miles and situated between the Mediterranean Sea and France.

Legislation drafted in 1911 divided the former principality into three separately governed entities. Six years later, the voicing of severe discontent resulted in the merging of these three smaller states, which were then further divided into the territories of Monaco-Ville, The Condamine, Monte-Carlo, and Fontvieille.

The locals call the old city of Monaco-Ville "The Rock". The old-world charm of the quarter is very appealing, resembling a medieval village. It's mostly a residential area, with around 1500 residents, located close to various tourist attractions. The Royal Palace is one, next door to the Cathedral of Monaco where the tombs of the ancestors of the Royal Family can be found. On the eve of Good Friday, the residents hold a torchlight procession beginning from the 1639 Chappelle de la Misericord.

The Condamine is on the north central border and is the second oldest district. With an estimated population of 12,167, it is considered a major business district. Known for its wide harbors and expensive yachts, this quarter homes the 2 major ports, the Port Of Monaco and Port Hercule. Centre Hospitalier Princess Grace the only hospital in Monaco is located in this quarter. Situated where the Alps drop down to the sea, the steep inclines provide impressive views of Monaco-Ville and the sea.

Monte-Carlo is located at the foot of the Alps and has an estimated population of 3,500. "La Grand Casino" and the beach community of Larvotto are the popular tourist attractions. Monte-Carlo hosts the Monaco Grand Prix and the Monte-Carlo Rally as well as the European Poker Tour. The famous Salle Garnier Opera House and the oldest elite Palace Grand Hotels named 'Hotel de Paris' both opened in 1864 is also located in this quarter.

Fontvieille, located in the southwest portion of Monaco is the newest of the quarters. With an estimated population of 3,900 most of this quarter is built on artificial land expanding over the Mediterranean Sea. Due to land shortage the expansion started in 1966 and finished in 1981. There are future plans to build 13 more acres for corporate businesses, shops and apartments. This quarter is known for light industries such as Venturi Automotive, a luxury electric car manufacturer. It is also home to Monaco Heliport, MonacoĆ¢€™s' only air flight with frequent flights to France.




About the Author:



No comments: