Overview
Monaco, officially the Principality of Monaco, is a sovereign city-state and microstate located in Western Europe on the French Riviera. It is a semi-enclave, bordered by France to the north, east, and west, with the Mediterranean Sea along its southern edge. The Italian region of Liguria lies just 15 km (9.3 mi) to the east, placing Monaco within easy reach of both France and Italy.
Size and Population
Monaco is remarkably small, covering an area of just 2.08 km2 (0.80 sq mi), making it the second smallest sovereign state in the world after Vatican City. Despite its tiny footprint, it is home to a population of 38,423, giving it the distinction of being the most densely populated country on Earth. Interestingly, fewer than 10,000 of its residents hold Monégasque nationality, meaning the majority of the population is composed of foreign residents.
Coastline and Geography
Monaco boasts the world's shortest national coastline of any non-landlocked nation, measuring only 3.83 km (2.38 mi). This narrow strip along the Mediterranean Sea forms the country's entire southern boundary, while land borders with France encircle it on the remaining sides. The principality's compact size and coastal position have shaped its development into a densely built urban environment with limited room for expansion.
Language
French is the official language of Monaco, reflecting its close historical and cultural ties with France. However, the linguistic landscape is more diverse than this alone suggests, as Italian and Monégasque are also widely spoken and understood among residents, highlighting the principality's blend of French and Italian influences.
- Location: Western Europe, on the French Riviera
- Borders: France (north, east, west); Mediterranean Sea (south)
- Area: 2.08 km2 (0.80 sq mi)
- Population: 38,423
- Coastline: 3.83 km (2.38 mi), the shortest of any non-landlocked country
- Official language: French, with Italian and Monégasque also spoken