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Prince's Palace of Monaco: A Grimaldi Stronghold

Discover Monaco's royal heritage at the Prince's Palace, a historic fortress and residence of the Grimaldi family for over seven centuries.

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Perched atop the Rock of Monaco, the Prince's Palace has been the official residence of the Grimaldi family for over 700 years. Originally a Genoese fortress built in 1191, it showcases a blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture. Visitors can witness the changing of the guard and explore the State Apartments.

A brief summary to Prince's Palace of Monaco

Local tips

  • Arrive before 11:30 am to secure a good viewing spot for the changing of the guard ceremony at 11:55 am.
  • Purchase tickets online or at the ticket office on Place du Palais to avoid potential queues.
  • Check the official website for closures due to state events.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting the palace; swimwear and overly light clothing are not permitted.
  • Consider a combined ticket to visit the Palace and the Car Collection of H.S.H. the Prince of Monaco.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Place d'Armes, ascend the Rampe Major, a 10-minute walk leading directly to the Palace Square. Alternatively, from Place de la Visitation, a 5-minute walk through the narrow streets of Monaco-Ville will take you to the palace.

  • Public Transport

    Take Monaco Bus lines 1 or 2 to the 'Place de la Visitation' stop. From there, follow the signs through the old town to the Palace, approximately a 5-minute walk. A single bus ticket costs €2. Tickets can be purchased on the bus or at ticket machines.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off near Monaco-Ville. From there, it's a short walk to the palace. Expect to pay around €15-€25 for a short taxi ride within Monaco.

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Discover more about Prince's Palace of Monaco

The Prince's Palace of Monaco, or Palais Princier, is more than just a residence; it's a living testament to the principality's rich history and the enduring legacy of the Grimaldi family. Built in 1191 as a Genoese fortress, the palace has evolved over the centuries, reflecting various architectural styles from Gothic to Renaissance. In 1297, François Grimaldi seized the fortress, marking the beginning of the Grimaldi dynasty's rule over Monaco. The palace has been the stronghold and home of the Grimaldi family since then. Over the centuries, the Palace has undergone numerous transformations, witnessing bombardments and sieges by foreign powers. Prince Honoré II enriched the Palace with precious art collections. However, most of these works were lost during the French Revolution when the Palace was looted and turned into a military hospital. In May 1814, Monaco was returned to the Grimaldi family. Prince Rainier III is credited with restoring the Palace to its former glory. Today, the Prince's Palace is the official residence of Prince Albert II and the Monegasque royal family. Visitors can explore the State Apartments, adorned with frescoes, gilded furniture, and tapestries. The Hercules Gallery showcases mythological frescoes, while the Throne Room hosts official ceremonies. Don't miss the changing of the guard ceremony, a daily tradition that attracts many visitors. The Carabinieri, in their striking uniforms, perform this solemn ritual with precision.

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