Monte Carlo, Monaco

Speaking of rivieras.. I thought this would be an appropriate timing for posting this card.



I'm embarrassed to say that up until now I didn't really know the difference between Monaco and Monte Carlo. Well, frankly, I thought the name 'Monte Carlo' just referred to a casino. :P Not quite so - Monte Carlo is one of Monaco's administrative areas.

Monaco is the second smallest country (by size) in the world; only the Vatican City is smaller. Monaco is also the world's second smallest monarchy (and principality to be more exact), and one of the most densely populated countries in the world. The state consists of only one municipality (commune). There is no geographical distinction between the State and City of Monaco, although responsibilities of the government (state-level) and of the municipality (city-level) are different.