Founded by S.A.R.L. Niche Media, Monaco’s independent boutique media company, MONEGU was conceived by entrepreneur and long-term Monaco resident Zsolt Szemerszky to become the definitive guide for individuals and families relocating to the Principality.
Published in both English and French, the magazine combines practical information with inspiring stories to help newcomers understand Monaco’s institutions, traditions, lifestyle and opportunities while celebrating the country’s unique identity, culture and international influence.
The name MONEGU is deeply rooted in the identity of the Principality of Monaco. More than simply a title, it represents belonging, heritage and respect for the culture of one of the world’s most unique city-states.
In the local language, Monaco is known as Munegu, while the Monégasque language itself is traditionally called Monegù, with both spellings widely used. “Munegu” refers to the country, while “Monegù” refers to the language spoken by generations of Monégasques. By choosing the name MONEGU, the magazine pays tribute to this rich cultural heritage while embracing Monaco’s future as an international home for people from around the world.
Purchase the digital edition of MONEGU (French and English).
A Language That Nearly Disappeared
The Monégasque language has a remarkable history of survival.
A Western Romance language belonging to the Ligurian linguistic family, Monegù shares many characteristics with the Genoese dialect while also showing similarities to the dialects of Ventimiglia, Menton and the Niçard variety of Occitan. Like other Ligurian languages, it evolved directly from Vulgar Latin spoken across northwestern Italy and southeastern France, while later absorbing influences from French in its vocabulary and grammar.
Before the annexation of the County of Nice by France in 1860, the local Niçois dialect was closely related to Monégasque. During the Italian occupation of Monaco between 1942 and 1943, Monégasque was once again regarded as an Italian dialect. Even after the Second World War, many Italian families living in Monte-Carlo continued to speak it fluently.
By the 1970s, however, the language had become seriously endangered and faced the very real possibility of disappearing.
Fortunately, determined preservation efforts transformed its future. Today, Monégasque is taught in Monaco’s schools, ensuring that new generations continue to learn the language. Its revival is also visible throughout the Principality, particularly in Monaco-Ville, where traditional street signs display both French and Monégasque names.
Every year on 23 June, Monaco’s Municipality further celebrates this heritage through the annual Monégasque Language Contest, established in 1981, where participants are tested on the Principality’s language, culture and history through written and oral examinations.
A Guide for New Residents
Inspired by this spirit of preservation and belonging, MONEGU was created as a practical and inspirational guide for individuals and families beginning a new chapter in Monaco.
The magazine helps newcomers better understand the Principality’s institutions, traditions, lifestyle, business environment and values. Alongside practical information, it also showcases Monaco’s global achievements in business, culture, science, innovation and sustainability.
Published by Niche Media, the Monaco-based publisher of Living in Monaco, MONEGU complements the publisher’s existing portfolio. While Living in Monaco focuses on exclusive interviews and stories from the Principality’s established community, MONEGU is specifically designed to support those relocating to Monaco by providing trusted guidance, local insight and practical orientation.
With more than 14 years of experience serving Monaco’s international community, Niche Media has become one of the Principality’s leading independent boutique communication and event agencies. Fully authorised and licensed by the Government of Monaco, the company connects residents, entrepreneurs, institutions and international brands through premium publications, bespoke events, out-of-home advertising campaigns and strategic brand activations.
Distributed directly to 5,000 households across Monaco and published in both English and French, MONEGU is also circulated through Monaco’s embassies and honorary consulates around the world, extending the Principality’s voice to an international audience.
Supported by a strong digital presence and additional distribution through airports and major regional hubs, the magazine reflects Monaco’s reputation for excellence, discretion and authenticity while serving as a trusted introduction to the Principality for future and newly established residents.
More than simply a magazine, MONEGU is a gateway into Monaco; connecting new residents with the country’s history, traditions, community and way of life while honouring the language that gave the publication its name.
Welcome to Monaco.
Welcome to MONEGU.
EXCLUSIVE:
Buy the digital edition of the MONEGU magazine (French and English) or purchase a downloadable PDF file of this article made exclusively with the Living in Monaco magazine.