Travel to Tuscany

Day 11 Pegli - Monaco - Barcelona (858 Km.)

(a 171 Km.) Monaco: Monaco, officially known as the Principality of Monaco, is a sovereign city-state located on the French Riviera. Despite its small size, Monaco is renowned as a glamorous and luxurious destination, attracting visitors from around the world. One of Monaco's most distinctive features is its stunning geography. The city-state is nestled on a narrow coastal strip, surrounded by steep hills and cliffs. It covers an area of just over 2 square kilometers, making it the second smallest country in the world after Vatican City. The principality is divided into several neighborhoods, including Monte Carlo, La Condamine, Fontvieille, and Monaco-Ville (also known as "The Rock"). Monaco is famous for its opulent lifestyle, high-end fashion, and luxury accommodations. It is often associated with wealth, high-stakes gambling, and a vibrant nightlife. Despite its small size, Monaco plays a significant role on the global stage. It is a constitutional monarchy, with Prince Albert II as the reigning monarch. The principality is known for its political stability, favorable tax policies, and as a hub for international business.

The Casino de Monaco is a world-famous landmark located in the heart of Monte Carlo, the most famous district of the Principality of Monaco. The Casino is not only a luxurious gambling establishment, but also an architectural jewel and a symbol of the glamour associated with Monaco. It is an exquisite example of Belle Époque architecture, characterised by grandeur, opulence and meticulous attention to detail. It was designed by Charles Garnier, the celebrated architect of the iconic Paris Opera House. The exterior features a grand façade adorned with intricate sculptures, ornate balconies and elegant columns, creating an air of sophistication. The Place du Casino, opposite the Casino, is lined with luxury boutiques, upmarket hotels and prestigious restaurants, it is a hub of activity and elegance. The square is home to several prestigious establishments, such as the Café de Paris and the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo. The area around the Casino is also famous for its beautiful gardens, such as the Jardin de la Petite Afrique, an oasis of tranquillity with lush greenery and exotic plants, or the Parc Princess Antoinette, located behind the Casino, which offers scenic paths, statues, and viewpoints.

A few metres from the Casino is the famous Loews Hairpin, part of the Circuit de Monaco. It is a street circuit that winds through the streets of Monte Carlo and La Condamine in Monaco. It is considered one of the most demanding and prestigious circuits in motor racing. The circuit is famous for hosting the Monaco Grand Prix, an iconic Formula 1 race that has been part of the championship since 1950. It is a temporary track, combining narrow streets, tight corners and elevation changes, demanding exceptional precision from the drivers. The circuit is approximately 3.34 kilometres (2.07 miles) long, with notable sections such as the Casino Square and the tunnel section. The Monaco Grand Prix attracts worldwide attention, known for its glamour and high-profile attendees. With its history, challenging layout and unique setting, the Circuit de Monaco is considered a legendary and captivating icon in the racing world.

The harbor of Monaco, known as Port Hercule, is a picturesque maritime hub nestled along the French Riviera. It serves as Monaco's main port and has a rich history as a center of maritime activity. Its horseshoe shape provides natural shelter and offers panoramic views of Monaco-Ville perched above. Port Hercule is renowned for luxurious yachts and a glamorous atmosphere, attracting yacht owners, celebrities, and visitors from around the world. The harbor features the Quai des Etats-Unis promenade, lined with upscale establishments. The Monaco Yacht Club, a prominent landmark, hosts prestigious yachting events. From the harbor, visitors can admire the iconic Monaco skyline, including the Fairmont Monte Carlo Hotel and the Prince's Palace atop the Rock of Monaco. Port Hercule epitomizes the prestige and allure associated with the principality.

We moved to the opposite side of the principality. The Prince's Palace of Monaco is a majestic residence located in Monaco-Ville, the historic center of Monaco. Serving as the official residence of the ruling Prince of Monaco, it is a key landmark in the principality. Dating back to the 13th century, the palace has undergone renovations and expansions, displaying a blend of medieval, Renaissance, and Gothic architectural elements. Situated on a rocky outcrop, it offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The exterior features fortified walls, towers, balconies, and ornate details. The palace is accessed through the grand Cour d'Honneur. Inside, visitors discover rooms adorned with artwork, luxurious furnishings, and historical artifacts. Highlights include the Throne Room, State Apartments, and the dazzling Mirror Gallery. The palace hosts the daily Changing of the Guard ceremony. The Prince's Palace welcomes visitors, allowing them to explore its rich history and royal traditions, representing the enduring legacy of the Grimaldi family, who have ruled Monaco for centuries.

The Cathedral of Monaco, officially known as the Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate, is a prominent religious landmark situated in the old town area of Monaco-Ville. The cathedral's construction began in 1875 and was completed in 1903, following the Roman-Byzantine architectural style. The exterior of the cathedral features white limestone façades adorned with beautiful detailing and intricate decorations. In the interior, the nave is lined with white marble pillars that support elegant arches. The high ceilings are adorned with stunning frescoes depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary. The main altar is richly decorated and features a remarkable white Carrara marble altarpiece, which portrays the Assumption of the Virgin.

One of the significant features of the Cathedral of Monaco is the presence of the tombs of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace Kelly. After Princess Grace's tragic death in a car accident in 1982, her remains were interred in the cathedral. Prince Rainier III, her husband, was later buried alongside her following his death in 2005. The tombs of Rainier and Grace Kelly are located in the small chapel to the right of the main altar. The chapel is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows, and the tombs themselves are marked by simple white marble plaques bearing their names and dates of birth and death.

(a 687 Km.) Barcelona: We ended our trip to Tuscany, during which we took advantage of our return journeys to visit some cities as Nimes and Monaco.