Sports - Monaco: Home To "Peace And Sport"

Physical activity that is governed by rules, customs and competition offer more possibilities than ever before. Prince Albert is personally interested in the quest for Peace on Earth. "Peace and Sport" is a new international organization based in Monaco. "Even more than an education, sport is mixing people for a better understanding and thus contributes to a better world," said Prince Albert.

While in Beijing for the General Association of the International Sport Federations Assembly, Albert added:

"Sport is finally just more than sport, sport can contribute to peace. We need encounters of this kind to help establish peace. Sport can be a powerful and original leverage to achieve peace and help young Israelis and Palestinians better understanding and thereby accepting one another."

The United Nations and the International Olympic Committee both support the cause 'Peace and Sport.' It was created by Joel Bouzou and he is its current President. The former Olympic medalist and executive board member of the World Olympians Association, Bouzou works closely with Prince Albert to promote a better understanding between countries through sports.

Private businesses, governments and international sports organizations will come together to incorporate the fundamental values of sport in rebuilding peace and global reconciliation around the world. Monte-Carlo Bay & Resort hotel in Monaco hosted the first international event. "Peace and Sport" officially began December 5th, 2007 under the High Patronage of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco.

The first invitation of "Peace and Sport" has been exceedingly positive and widely accepted by governments and heads of state. International organizations such as the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and International Olympic Committee have responded positively. In addition, international sports federations and many dignitaries have responded likewise.

Monaco, only a little bigger than a small city, is steeped in a rich and colorful history. Surrounded by France on three sides, it is approximately the same size as Central Park in New York City.

The Principality covers one square mile. Serene Highness Prince Rainier III is head of state.

Typical of the northwestern area of the Mediterranean, Monaco's terrain and geography is rocky and set on cliff-faces and steep hills that drop off into the Mediterranean. The climate is mild year-round.

Today, people vacation in Monaco to visit the casinos, museums, beautiful gardens, parks and shopping centers.

The Monaco Grand Prix; Grand Prix de Monaco, the jewel of the Formula One crown since 1929, is considered to be one of the most prestigious races in the world alongside the Indianapolis 500 and "The 24 Hours of Le Mans".

The Palace of Monaco was built in 1215. Enjoy seeing the 'Changing of the Guard', galleries, throne room and salons. The Palatine Chapel and the Saint Marie Tower are wonderful attractions to the Prince's Palace.

Fontvieille Park is filled with plants, including more than four thousand rose bushes of 150 different varieties.

Monaco's small zoo opened in 1954. It sits atop a cliff-face beneath the palace. It includes over 250 animals from 50 different species.

Monaco - jewel of the Mediterranean - is surprisingly inexpensive to visit but a seaside gem impossible not to love.