The Prince's Palace

The Princes of Monaco, history and key dates

Principality of Monaco

Principality of Monaco History of Monaco Important dates Key figures Institutions Monaco's national anthem The Prince's Palace Map of Monaco

Princely Family

Family tree Prince Rainier III Prince Albert II Princesse Charlène Princesse Caroline Princesse Stéphanie Royal wedding Life of Princes

At heart of the Principality, on the site of a fortress constructed by the Genovese in 1215 stands the Prince's Palace. It harbours splendours tracing out seven centuries of uninterrupted sovereignty. Touring the Palace is synonymous with journeying through the centuries – from the Renaissance to the Napoleonic period.

The Palace Courtuard’s impressive double staircase leads the State Apartments, where sumptuous frescoes from the 16th enctury adorn the Mazarin Salon, the York Room and the imposing Throne Room.

Every day at 11.55am precisely, on the square in front of the Palace, the traditional ritual of the Changing of the Guard – the Carabiniers du Prince – attracts and delights thousands of spectators..