The most famous mile in the world
The Principality of Monaco is just 1.95 km2 and it is without a doubt the most famous square mile on the planet. Situated on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, at the southern border of France, the tiny principality seemed to win the heavenly lottery – there is simply no better place for an elite European holiday. The beautiful sea, the sun shines 300 days a year, a minimum of cloudy weather, mild climate, a stone’s throw from French and Italian attractions, and the principality itself is literally crammed with monuments of architecture and culture. Here, even restaurants and casinos have such a celebrity-rich history that they have long become cultural objects of the first magnitude.
The Principality is not an independent state, but a protectorate, and formally belongs to its closest neighbor, France.But until the dynasty of the ruling princes of the Grimaldi clan breaks off, Monaco will remain an independent and sovereign power, one of the smallest in the world, but much more significant and vibrant than many large countries. Conquered in ancient times, until 1814, this land passed from hand to hand, and various influential clans waged wars for it. The winners, Grimaldi, are reaping the fruits of victory so far. After all, their kind, which has not been interrupted for over 700 years, is the oldest ruling dynasty in Europe.
The most expensive in Monaco is land and housing. Since there is nowhere to expand for a long time, and you can only grow up, apartment prices reach amounts that are as high as in the central business districts of London (a 4 room apartment for 100 meters costs more than half a million). However, everyone who has registered personal property in the principality receives the right to become a citizen of Monaco and the possibility of significant tax benefits (and in the future, exemption from most taxes). So for rich people who lead a private lifestyle, such a purchase pays off pretty quickly.
Monaco is famous for its unprecedented order and level of security. Of course, in a small area it is easier to organize protection against crime and terrorism, and make living more secure than in a large state – but in Monaco this issue is brought to manic purity. This is one of the rare places on the planet where ladies can wear jewelry, rather than store them in safes. Go for a walk in Bulgary diamonds and feel relaxed.
