We are celebrating Monaco National Day on November 19. The day is also called “The Sovereign Prince’s Day.” It is a day to celebrate the small, yet impactful nation of Monaco. The official name of the country is the Principality of Monaco. It is a day celebrated on a date selected by the reigning prince. Monaco is one of the smallest countries in the world. It is a semi–enclave nation located entirely between France and the Mediterranean Sea. The country is a paradise for the rich business class, as there is no income tax. Monaco is famous for its rich casinos, wealth, and lavish events.
History of Monaco National Day
Monaco is a unique country with a rich history and culture. It is one of the smallest countries in the world. Monaco has quite a large population for its size. The country is situated on the French Riviera, surrounded by France and the Mediterranean Sea. The world considers Monaco the “Billionaires’ Playground” due to the large concentration of wealthy people residing all over the country. The Monaco National Day is usually chosen by the ruling prince. Until recently, the national day coincided with the day of the saint the ruling prince is named after. However, the tradition changed when Prince Albert II ascended to the throne. St. Albert’s Day is on November 15. But the Prince decided to continue Saint Rainier’s Day.
The history of human settlements in Monaco dates back to the Stone Age. The Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology holds the archaeological discoveries of stone–age settlements. The Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, and Greeks all knew about the headlands in Monaco.
The House of Grimaldi has been the ruling family of Monaco since 1297, making them one of the oldest still-ruling dynasties in Europe. The Genoese leader of the Guelphs started the ruling family. They allied with France except for a short period between 1524 and 1641. During this time, the country was under the protection of Spain. France annexed Monaco in 1793. But the family returned after the fall of Napoleon. Monaco became an independent nation after the Franco-Monégasque treaty of 1861.
Monaco National Day timeline
The name Monaco starts to appear in writing.
Charles I reconquers the Rock and becomes the first Lord of Monaco.
This date is chosen by Honore III — who reigns for 60 years after ascending the throne at the age of 13.
Monaco starts releasing the first stamps they printed.
Monaco abolishes all forms of direct taxation.
Monaco National Day FAQs
How does Monaco make money without taxation?
Monaco depends on the income from the tourism, banking, and entertainment industries for making money.
When is the public holiday in Monaco?
Monaco National Day is a public holiday in Monaco. If November 19 is on a Sunday, the public holiday will be observed the next day. The date for Monaco National Day could change depending on the reigning Prince, and the day of the saint they were named after.
What is the national dish of Monaco?
Barbagiuan is a savory, filled pastry. It originated in Monaco. It is sold in markets and is the main dish on November 19.
Monaco National Day Activities
Visit Monaco
The best place to celebrate Monaco National Day is, well, in Monaco itself, There will be grand festivals with vibrant fireworks. The full Royal family of Monaco will be there to attend the celebrations, along with eminent personalities from different nations.
Buy some Monaco stamps
Monaco prints lots of stamps, and it was one of their sources of income. Purchase a few stamps and create a stamp collection if you cannot manage to visit Monaco.
Reserve for the Monaco Grand Prix
Get ahead of the crowd and book some tickets! Then spend the day immersed in Monaco’s rich culture and enjoy the Monaco Grand Prix events.
5 Interesting Facts About Monaco
Second-smallest country
Monaco is the second-smallest country in the world, after Vatican City.
Monégasque are a minority
The native Monaco citizens are a minority in the country – 21% of the population
Tax haven
Monaco does not have an income tax system, so it is a paradise for millionaires from all over the globe.
Fish and only fish
Fish is the only natural resource available in Monaco.
No gambling for the locals
Although a country full of casinos, Monaco does not allow its citizens to gamble.
Why We Love Monaco National Day
Small but inspiring
Monaco is a very small country with an inspiring history. Celebrating Monaco's national day is an opportunity to appreciate the small country for surviving in-between giants with as little trouble as possible. Monaco knows how to mind its own business, and it is a very good lesson that we all need.
Let’s become rich
Monaco is a very rich country, and it is the only country with a Human Development Index above 1. Monaco is also a paradise for billionaires.
In memory of James Bond
Monaco reminds us of the classic James Bond movies. Three of the Bond movies were shot there, thanks to the grand casinos present in the nation.
Monaco National Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | November 19 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | November 19 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | November 19 | Thursday |
| 2027 | November 19 | Friday |
| 2028 | November 19 | Sunday |
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