Monte Carlo Casino was built in 1893 by Charles Garnier, the architect of the Paris Opera House. Its marble paved “atrium”, surrounded with 28 Ionic columns made of onyx, gives access to the Opera Hall (no visits) which is entirely decorated in red and gold, with bas-reliefs and sculptures. For more than a century, its stage has been the setting for international operatic creations, prestigious concerts, and exceptional ballets. Its series of “Gaming Rooms” are marvellously decorated with stained glass windows, sculptures, and allegorical paintings. The Casino de Monte-Carlo is open to players from 2 pm until the last table closes. Restricted access – over 18’s only Proof of identity required. The Casino can be closed if you visit in morning hours or for any other occasions without any prior intimation. In such case you can see it from outside only.

Destination Monaco, a principality on the Mediterranean coast near the border to Italy. The city state forms an enclave within France. It is the smallest sovereign state in the world apart from the Vatican. Today about 38,400 people live in the principality on an area of just 2 km² making it the most densely populated city on earth (see: Countries with the highest population density). Founded in 1215 as a colony of Genoa, Monaco has been ruled by the House of Grimaldi since 1297, when François Grimaldi, known as “Malizia” seized Monaco’s fortress in response to the exile imposed upon the Guelfs. For seven centuries the Grimaldi family has presided over the Principality of Monaco, except from 1789 to 1814, when Monaco was under French control. Designated as a protectorate of Sardinia from 1815 until 1860 by the Congress of Vienna, Monaco’s sovereignty was recognized by the Franco-Monegasque Treaty of 1861.