Is Monaco a country?

Monaco is a fascinating place, both for its uniqueness and its extraordinary status. Nestled along the French Riviera, this glamorous principality intrigues travelers who, whether they arrive by land, sea or air, often ask themselves the same questions: "Is Monaco a country? or "Is Monaco part of France?" Others, captivated by its exceptional setting, wonder: "Where is Monaco? and "How big is Monaco?" ».

To the question "Is Monaco a country? The answer is simple: yes, Monaco is indeed a country. It is the second smallest nation in the world, with an area of only 2.08 km². Monaco's surface area has indeed increased with the Mareterra sea extension project (also known as Anse du Portier). This extension added approximately 6 hectares (0.06 km²) to the territory of the principality, bringing the total area of Monaco from 2.02 km² to approximately 2.08 km². Its history and culture bear witness to an impressive richness. Formerly French territory, Monaco became a colony of the Republic of Genoa in 1215, and in 1297, the Grimaldi family took possession of the Rock. Since then, this dynasty has reigned there uninterruptedly, making Monaco a unique principality ruled by one of the oldest princely families in the world. There are many princes of Monaco and if you are interested in the subject, we invite you to discover our article which traces the many sovereigns who have governed Monaco.

Located between the French municipalities of Cap-d'Ail, Beausoleil and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, Monaco enjoys a strategic location on the Mediterranean, just 8 kilometres from the Italian border and close to Nice. Although the territory is landlocked by France, Monaco is a sovereign state whose independence has been recognized since the Franco-Monegasque Treaty of 1861. This treaty ensured Monaco not only its sovereignty, but also free movement with France, reinforcing the attractiveness of the principality. This openness, combined with an exceptional living environment, makes Monaco a popular place for visitors, residents and investors from all over the world.

Is Monaco really an independent country?

The answer is an undeniable yes: Monaco is a sovereign state with its own government, administrative institutions, and well-defined borders. Although this microstate is entirely landlocked by France, its status as an independent state is internationally recognized and reinforced by official agreements. One of the key moments of this independence was the Franco-Monegasque Treaty of 1861, which consolidated the sovereignty of the principality and established the foundations of close relations with its neighbour.

Since 1993, Monaco has been a member of the United Nations, which confirms its place as an independent nation in the eyes of the world. As an active member, the Principality participates in international initiatives and has diplomatic representatives in several countries. However, Monaco retains a unique position: although it uses the euro and shares some regulations with France, it is not a member of the European Union. This special status gives it autonomy in terms of taxation and legislation, while benefiting from the stability of its agreements with France.

The Treaty of 1861 was fundamental to Monaco's independence. By guaranteeing the sovereignty of the principality, this document also establishes French military protection, allowing Monaco to preserve its autonomy in internal management, particularly in the economic and legal fields. In return, Monaco undertakes to align certain policies, particularly in terms of defence and international relations, with those of France. This compromise ensured Monaco lasting security and harmonious relations, consolidating its status as an independent and prosperous micro-state.

The Principality of Monaco, a microstate in Europe

Monaco is often classified as a European micro-state, a group of small nations with a small area but recognized independence. This group includes countries such as the Principality of Andorra, the Republic of San Marino, Liechtenstein and the Vatican. Each of these states has unique characteristics, but Monaco stands out for its exceptional population density and global influence despite its small size.

With its recent expansion to 2.08 km², Monaco is the most densely populated country in the world, with more than 38,000 inhabitants, which represents a density of about 19,000 inhabitants per square kilometre. This impressive density is due to an urbanization that covers almost the entire territory. Due to this limited space, the principality has developed vertical urbanism, with many high-rise residential and commercial buildings that fit into the Monegasque urban landscape.

Unlike other European microstates, Monaco enjoys an ideal Mediterranean climate and a privileged geographical location, by the sea. Its business model is based on dynamic sectors such as luxury tourism, real estate, and financial services. In addition, Monaco also stands out for its advantageous tax system, which attracts many wealthy investors and residents. This situation allows the principality to stand out among micro-states, while remaining deeply rooted in the European economic and cultural fabric.

The Grimaldi family and the Monegasque monarchy

Monaco is a principality ruled by one of the oldest and most iconic dynasties in the world: the Grimaldi family. Since François Grimaldi seized the Rock in 1297, his descendants have never ceased to reign over the principality, crossing the centuries and adapting to the evolutions of history. This secular monarchy gives Monaco a unique character in Europe, with a monarchical tradition that remains alive and well anchored in Monegasque culture.

The history of the Grimaldi family dates back to the Middle Ages, when François Grimaldi, of Genoese origin, took control of Monaco in 1297. Since then, this family lineage has crossed generations, influencing the life and identity of Monaco. Although the principality briefly lost its independence during the occupation by France in the late eighteenth century, it regained its sovereign status in 1814. Today, the principality is led by Prince Albert II, who succeeded his father, Rainier III, in 2005.

Prince Albert II continues to play a central role in the life of the principality. Although Monaco has been a constitutional monarchy since 1911, the prince retains significant powers, particularly in the areas of foreign affairs and security. In addition to his political duties, Albert II is also a fervent defender of environmental preservation and sustainable initiatives, a priority for the principality. Under his leadership, Monaco has consolidated its image as a prestigious destination while positioning itself as a committed player in global issues related to ecology.

Urban planning and territorial extensions of Monaco

Faced with its limited space, Monaco has been able to take advantage of its coastal position by gradually gaining ground on the sea. These extensions make it possible to meet the growing needs for housing and development, while preserving the attractiveness of the principality. This innovative urban planning model is one of the most spectacular in the world and illustrates Monaco's ability to adapt despite its geographical limitations.

The Mareterra project is one of the most ambitious in Monaco. Inaugurated at the end of 2024, it adds 6 hectares to Monegasque territory. Designed as an eco-district, Mareterra is an example of sustainable architecture that combines luxurious residences, green spaces, a port and modern infrastructure. This project shows Monaco's commitment to innovation in an environmentally friendly environment, thus responding to Prince Albert II's ecological vision.

In addition to Mareterra, Monaco has carried out several other infrastructure projects to maximize the use of its limited space. The Fontvieille district, built in the 1970s, had already made it possible to gain additional hectares from the sea. This district is now home to a stadium, a shopping centre, as well as residences and offices. More recently, high-rise buildings like the Odeon Tower, a 49-story skyscraper, have been built to meet housing needs, while minimizing the footprint. These projects reflect Monaco's strategy for vertical and sustainable growth, aiming to welcome new residents and businesses in a very small space.

Monaco, an independent and influential microstate

Monaco is much more than just a holiday resort on the French Riviera: it is a country in its own right, with a unique status, rich in history and identity that has stood out for centuries. As the second smallest state in the world, with a current area of 2.08 km², Monaco embodies the perfect example of a microstate capable of competing with major nations in its influence and dynamism. Thanks to the vision of the Grimaldi family, which has ruled uninterruptedly since 1297, the principality consolidated its sovereignty, especially with the 1861 treaty signed with France, guaranteeing its independence while forging close ties with its neighbour.

As an independent state, Monaco enjoys international recognition, a seat at the United Nations and a privileged position in Europe. However, it also retains a marked autonomy, particularly in terms of taxation, legislation and environmental policies, which make it a model of prosperity for a territory of this size. Urban extension projects, such as the Mareterra district, show Monaco's ability to innovate and adapt, leveraging every square metre to meet the needs of its population while implementing environmentally friendly initiatives.

The principality's advantageous tax system, its quality of life and its climate make Monaco a popular place for residents from all over the world. This appeal is reinforced by leading international events, such as the Formula 1 Grand Prix and the Monaco Yacht Show, which anchor Monaco as a luxury destination with global reach.

Thus, Monaco is much more than a symbol of prestige: it is a real country, autonomous and active, whose greatness far exceeds its small area. This city-state, both rooted in tradition and looking to the future, embodies a unique model of independence and resilience. Thanks to Petrini Exclusive Real Estate Monaco, your trusted real estate partner in the Principality, benefit from the support of an experienced international team, used to welcoming newcomers to Monaco and facilitating their integration into this unique setting. Whether you want to buy a property or rent an apartment, we are at your disposal to guide you and offer you the best real estate opportunities. Contact us to find out how to make Monaco your new home.