Discovering the Monegasque Residence of Their Serene Highnesses, the Princes of Monaco
The Monegasque residence of Their Serene Highnesses the Princes of Monaco dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries, built upon the foundation of a 14th-century Genoese castle. Its current appearance owes much to the patronage of Honoré II (17th century) as well as the efforts of his more recent descendants, following the damage caused by the French Revolution.
Much of the Palace is understandably closed to the public, as it serves as the private residence of the Grimaldi family. However, there is a section known as the “State Apartments,” where visitors can marvel at the magnificence of princely rooms and admire the many masterpieces that hang on the walls. Among the displayed paintings, visitors can appreciate works by L. Bomat, Nicolas and Pierre Mignard, Giorgione, Lebrun, H. Rigaud, J. Bressan, and many others.
Below, we present to our readers a few of the magnificent features of this small Versailles.
The “Gallery of Hercules,” characterized by Renaissance-inspired decorations with 17th-century frescoes
The “Mazarin Room.” Above the fireplace stands a portrait of the high prelate, from the French school of the 17th century
The “Blue Room.” The walls, decorated in Louis XIV style, harmonize with the gilded wooden furniture. The lamps are Venetian, crafted from carved crystal. On the right, one can see a portrait of Maria Leszczyńska (consort of King Louis XV of France), painted by Stiemart
The Throne Room. Particularly remarkable are the stunning frescoes by Orazio Ferrari, which frame the throne topped by the Grimaldi family coat of arms. The “spider chandeliers” in Polish crystal complete the room, where the civil wedding of Rainier III and Grace Kelly was celebrated (the religious ceremony was held the following day)
The “Officers’ Room.”
The “Louis XV Room.”
The “York Room,” where the Duke of York, brother of the King of England, passed away in the 18th century. While passing by sea along the Monegasque coast, the nobleman became gravely ill and sought help from the Princes of Monaco, who welcomed him into their castle to provide care. Unfortunately, this could not prevent his passing
The “Louis XV Room,” decorated toward the end of the 18th century.
The “Hall of Mirrors.”
The Chapel of St. John the Baptist, dating back to 1656
View of the Napoleonic Museum, created by Prince Rainier III, primarily with materials collected by his predecessor, Louis II, a general in the French Army
