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Monte Carlo
Founded in 1866, Monte-Carlo has a name of Italian origin meaning "Mount Charles", named in compliment to the prince then reigning, Charles III of Monaco. The specific mountain is the escarpment at the foot of the Maritime Alps on which the town monte-Carlo is known for its casinos, gambling, glamour, and for sightings of famous people. The permanent population is about 3,000. Monte-Carlo quarter includes not only Monte-Carlo proper where the famous Le Grand Casino is located, but also the neighborhoods of Saint-Michel, Saint-Roman/Tenor, and the beach community of Larvotto. It borders the French town of Beausoleil.
Set between the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and the majestic Alps, Monte Carlo rises from the natural splendor as a tribute to man-made beauty. Monte Carlo is a district of Monaco, the second smallest independent state in Europe at 0.76 total square miles.
Monte Carlo is the ultimate vacation destination in Europe, there's a reason why millions of visitors are attracted to its treasures every year. The epitome of class and culture, Monte Carlo boasts everything from gambling to historical sites and first-rate entertainment. The attractions in this small state have lured royalty, movie stars, and vacationers since gambling was legalized in 1863.
Monte-Carlo is home to most of the Circuit de Monaco, on which the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix takes place; it also hosts world championship boxing bouts, the Monte-Carlo Masters, European Poker Tour Grand Final and the World Backgammon Championship as well as fashion shows and other events. Monte-Carlo is one of Europe's leading tourist resorts, although many of the key tourist destinations are located in other parts of Monaco, including such attractions as Monaco Cathedral, the Napoleon Museum, the Oceanographic Museum and aquarium, and the Prince's Palace, all of which are located in Monaco-Ville.
Weather
Monaco enjoys mild Mediterranean weather, with days of sunshine (an average 300 per year) and nights cooled by breezes from the sea. Summer averages of 21°C (70°F) heat up to 26°C (79°F) during July and August. Autumn has wonderful weather, averaging 15 to 21°C (60 to 70°F) and clear skies through to winter. From December through to January, daytime temperatures subside to a range of 8-12°C. |
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