The Prince’s Palace

The princely palace of Monaco

The Monaco audio-guided tour takes you to the princely palace, the essential stop of any visit of the Rock. Established on the site of a twelfth-century Genoese fortress, this building has crossed the centuries between bombardments, covetousness, pomp and splendour.

The cradle of the Grimaldi dynasty

Legend has it that Francesco Grimaldi, nicknamed La Malizia, seized the place on 8 January 1297. Since then, the palace has remained the residence of the princely family, making the Grimaldis one of the oldest reigning dynasties in Europe. Over the centuries, the medieval fortress was transformed into a sumptuous palace, enlarged and embellished by the successive princes, while keeping its original towers and ramparts.

What there is to see

In front of the palace, the courtyard of honour and the changing of the guard, in full uniform, draw visitors every day. Inside, the State Apartments reveal frescoes, period furniture and sumptuous ceremonial rooms. From the Palace Square, the view over the harbour and the sea is superb. It is the historic and symbolic heart of the Principality, not to be missed.

Practical information

The princely palace stands at the top of the Rock, in Monaco. The courtyard and the State Apartments can be visited according to their own schedule, with a charge, whose opening times may vary with the season. The Palace Square and the changing of the guard can be discovered freely; parking is advised at the Pêcheurs car park.

Since when has the palace belonged to the Grimaldis?

Since 8 January 1297, the date on which, according to legend, Francesco Grimaldi seized the fortress; the dynasty still resides there today.

What can you visit at the princely palace?

The courtyard of honour, the State Apartments and their ceremonial rooms; in front of the palace, you can watch the changing of the guard.