Monte carlo biography

(Monte Carlo, Monaco)

Today, Monte Carlo's name is synonymous with its casino. What is perhaps less well known is that both town and casino are essentially modern creations, founded only in the latter half of the 19th century.

Before the birth of Monte Carlo, Monaco was known as a small principality, boasting a history that dates back to Roman times.

In the centuries that followed, it was ruled variously by Spain, Sardiniaand France. By the 19th century, Monaco had shrunk to being the second-smallest sovereign state in Europe.

The Rise of Monte Carlo as a Resort

By the mid-19th century, history shows that Monaco's reigning royal family were almost bankrupt.

What's more, poverty was a real threat to many of the people who lived here. To raise revenue and revive Monaco's flagging fortunes, Prince Charles III decided to transform it into a place where the wealthy could take the waters and enjoy a spot of gambling.


To that end, the prince a