Western Europe.

GMT + 1 (GMT + 2 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).

1.95 sq km (0.75 sq miles).

32,000 (2005).

16,435 per sq km.

Monaco-Ville. Population: 1034 (2000).

Monaco is second only to the Vatican as the smallest independent state in Europe. Set on the Mediterranean coast of France just a few miles from the Italian border, the principality is a constitutional monarchy and relies largely on foreign currency for an economic base. Its principal industry is tourism. The country is a narrow ribbon of coastline backed by the Alpes-Maritimes foothills, creating a natural amphitheatre overlooking the sea, with the population centred in four districts. Monaco-Ville is set on a rocky promontory dominating the coast. The Palace is the home of the Grimaldi family, the oldest ruling house in Europe. Monaco-Ville also boasts a fine Romanesque cathedral among its other attractions. La Condamine is the area around the Port, while Monte-Carlo is the main centre for business and entertainment. Fontvieille has been set aside as an area for new light industrial and residential development.

The government of the principality is controlled by the hereditary ruler Prince Albert II, under whom executive authority is exercised by a Minister of State. The Monegasque electorate elects the 18-member Conseil National (National Council) for a five-year term; the Council and the Prince share legislative power.

Constitutional Monarchy. Head of State: Prince Albert II since 2005. Head of Government: Minister of State Jean Paul Proust. Recent history: Following the death of Prince Rainier in April 2005, his son Prince Albert II was enthroned in November 2005, ending a process that began when he was sworn in before his subjects in July. The Government of the Principality is controlled by the hereditary ruler Prince Albert II, under whom executive authority is exercised by a Minister of State. The Monegasque electorate elects the 18-member Conseil National (National Council) for a five-year term; the Council and the Prince share legislative power.

French. Monégasque (a mixture of French Provençal and Italian Ligurian), English and Italian are also spoken. Native Monégasques make up only a minority of Monaco’s population.

95 per cent Roman Catholic (Monaco has a Catholic Bishop), with Anglican minorities.

Casual wear is acceptable for daytime and dress is the same as for the rest of the French Riviera. Smart restaurants, dining rooms, clubs and the Casino’s private rooms require more formal attire. Handshaking and, more familiarly, kissing both cheeks, are accepted forms of greeting.

220 volts AC, 50Hz. Round two-pin plugs are in use.