Did you know that Monaco and Monte-Carlo are often confused as synonyms? And that although many people believe Monaco is a French city, it is actually a country?
These are just some of the many myths surrounding Monaco and Monte-Carlo! If you want to clear up any doubts about the subject and discover more interesting facts about these two names, read on to the end.
We're going to tell you all about them now, as well as giving you exclusive secrets on how to enjoy an incredible trip to these destinations. Let's go?
Curiosities about Monaco and Monte-Carlo
Monaco and Monte-Carlo are often confused as synonyms
As we mentioned in the introduction, this confusion happens quite often. But in fact, the Principality of Monaco is a country (and not a French city, as some people think), divided into a few main districts or neighborhoods.
Monte-Carlo, on the other hand, is the principality's most famous district, created in 1863 and one of the main factors responsible for making Monaco the outstanding destination it is today. So when you travel to Monaco, the Monte-Carlo district is a must, given its importance to the country.
After all, Monte-Carlo is home to some of Monaco's greatest symbols, such as the:
- Monte-Carlo Casino;
- Hotel de Paris;
- Café de Paris;
- Place du Casino.
In addition, there are several new developments not to be missed, such as the modern One Monte-Carlo.
One of the largest private hotel wine cellars in the world is located under the Hôtel de Paris
With over 150 years of history, the place has witnessed important historical events. One of them was during the Second World War, when the hotel staff closed off part of the cellar with a wall made of seven layers of wine bottles.
There, they hid 20,000 of their most valuable bottles and silver utensils so that they wouldn't be found by enemy forces. The idea worked and Winston Churchill, the then British Prime Minister, reopened the cellar after the war.
Ayrton Senna won the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix six times
People from all over the world who enjoyed Formula 1 until the mid-1990s may remember the famous Brazilian driver, Ayrton Senna. His six victories at the Circuit de Monaco were marked by a rather unusual and joyful breach of protocol, as he celebrated his victories by showering his princely family with champagne.
The prestigious and acclaimed Opera de Monte-Carlo, located inside the Casino, was designed by the famous French architect Charles Garnier, who also designed the Paris Opera. Despite its classical architecture, the Monte-Carlo Opera's performance repertoire is very eclectic, from great operas to international pop, rock and jazz artists, taking spectators on a unique musical journey.
Monaco produces its own organic beer
The Brasserie de Monaco, located on the port, is a boutique brewery with a fully automated system that uses organic, hand-selected malts to produce authentic local beer. It was the brewery that created a special beer for Prince Albert II's wedding. Beautiful, chic, charming, tasty and trendy, Monaco is worth a visit!
And if, like us, you've found these interesting facts about Monaco and Monte-Carlo super interesting, talk to us now! We'll introduce you to a unique and unforgettable Monaco!
