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Cathédrale de Monaco: A Testament to Faith and History

A Roman-Byzantine cathedral in Monaco-Ville, the final resting place of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace, and a symbol of Monegasque heritage.

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The Cathédrale de Monaco, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate, is a Roman-Byzantine style cathedral built between 1875 and 1903 on the site of Monaco's first parish church. It is the final resting place of many Grimaldi family members, including Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace.

A brief summary to Cathédrale de Monaco

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully when visiting; shoulders must be covered, and shorts/mini-skirts are not permitted.
  • Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Check the schedule for Mass times and special events to experience the cathedral's spiritual ambiance.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Prince's Palace and the Oceanographic Museum.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Prince's Palace, walk towards the Place du Palais and take the steps down towards the Cathédrale. The cathedral is located a short walk from the palace, approximately 5 minutes. There are no costs associated with this final approach.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus route 1 or 2 and get off at the 'Monaco Ville (Le Rocher)' stop. From there, it's a short walk to the Cathédrale. Bus tickets cost €2 per journey. Alternatively, take the ClicBus on-demand shuttle bus service in the Plati, Fleurs, and Annonciade districts to Place d'Armes, and then walk to the Cathédrale. The ClicBus can be ordered via phone or the ClicBus application.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout Monaco. A taxi ride within Monaco typically costs a flat rate of €18. From the Monaco Monte Carlo Station, a taxi ride to the Cathédrale de Monaco takes approximately 4 minutes.

  • Driving

    Drive towards Monaco-Ville and follow signs for the Oceanographic Museum. Park in the Parking des Pêcheurs near the Oceanographic Museum, which provides direct access to the area. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around €20 for a full day. Access to the parking is via Avenue de la Quarantaine, and then a short Pêcheurs tunnel.

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Discover more about Cathédrale de Monaco

The Cathédrale de Monaco, or Monaco Cathedral, is a prominent landmark in Monaco-Ville, standing as a testament to the principality's rich history and unwavering faith. Formally called the Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate, it is also known as the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas. Constructed between 1875 and 1903, and consecrated in 1911, the cathedral was built in Roman-Byzantine style, showcasing a striking façade of white stone sourced from La Turbie. The cathedral replaced Monaco's first parish church, which was dedicated to Saint Nicholas and built in 1252. The interior features a high altar and an episcopal throne crafted from white Carrara marble. Visitors can admire the 16th-century altarpiece by Louis Bréa, a Niçois painter, as well as the stunning stained-glass windows that illuminate the space. The grand organ, inaugurated in 1976, is also a celebrated feature. The Cathédrale de Monaco holds a special place in the hearts of the Monegasque people, serving as the final resting place for many members of the Grimaldi family. Among those interred here are Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace, whose tombs attract visitors from around the world. The cathedral is an active place of worship, hosting regular Mass services and special events throughout the year. Pontifical services are held on major religious festivals, such as the Feast of Sainte Dévote (January 27) and Monaco's National Day (November 19).

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