Palais du Prince
In a unique position high above the sea on the picturesque peninsula of Le Rocher, the Palais du Prince is home to the oldest monarchy in the world. The Genoese noble family of Grimaldi established Monaco in 1297 after they captured the land from the Republic of Genoa. Originally built in the 13th century as a Genoese fortress, the site affords panoramic views, which provided defensive purposes in the Middle Ages. The fortress was renovated throughout the centuries and transformed into a luxurious Louis-XIV-style palace.
The State Apartments of the Palais du Prince are open to the public when the Prince and his family are away (when the flag on the tower is not raised). Visitors can see the sumptuous Italianate gallery adorned with 15th-century frescoes, the gilded "Blue Room" featuring a glorious decor of blue and gold, the wood-paneled Mazarin Room, and the Empire-style Throne Room, which has an impressive Renaissance fireplace. Be sure to admire the 17th-century Palatine Chapel and the Main Courtyard with its monumental 17th-century Carrara marble double staircase. During summer, concerts are held in the Main Courtyard. The ancient tradition of Changing of the Guard takes place every day at 11.55am in front of the Palace.