The Prince’s Palace located in Monaco-Ville has been the official residence of Monaco’s rulers for more than 700 years. The Renaissance style prevails in the palace’s architecture, but the towers of the ancient fortress, built in the 13th century by the Genoese, saw the establishment of the House of Grimaldi. In fact, the Prince’s Palace combines different architectural styles, as every ruler of the Principality redecorated his residence to his own tastes.
The Prince’s residence faces the biggest square of Monaco – the Palace Square. It offers a stunning view of the city and two harbours. On each side of the square you can see the cannons dating back to the 17th century. Don’t miss the changing of the guard in front of the Palace at 11:55. The ritual has remained the same for several centuries.
Right near the main entrance to the Palace Square you will see the monument to the first Grimaldi who, dressed as a monk, entered the fortress and seized it with his men. At night an atmosphere of mystery and magic reigns on the Palace Square.
[box type=”note”]
You can also visit State Apartments in the royal Palace:
Adults – 8 euros
Children – (8-14 years old), students: 4 euros
Double ticket: State Apartments + Private Collection of Antique cars
Adults: 11.50 euros
Children (8-14 years old) + students: 5 euros
The State Apartments are not accessible to those in wheelchairs. Access is only by the stairs.
Schedules: open 10:00 to 18:00 (last entrance 17:30) and from 1st of July to 31st of August 10:00 to 19:00 (last entrance 18:30)
Bus access: One may take either Monaco Bus line 1 or 2, which ends at the Place de la Visitation bus stop and is signposted as Terminus Monaco-Ville. The bus stop is next to the Museum Chapelle de la Visitation. From the Place de la Visitation bus stop one follows the posted signs through the small streets to the Palace, a short 5-minute walk.
More information: www.palais.mc[/box]
