Prince's Palace of Monaco, Monte-Carlo (must see)

The official residence of the Sovereign Prince of Monaco, this palace was built in 1191 as a Genoese fortress, and during its long and often dramatic history, it has been bombarded and besieged by many foreign powers. Since the end of the 13th century, it has been the stronghold and home of the Grimaldi family who first captured it in 1297. The Grimaldi ruled the area first as feudal lords, and from the 17th century as sovereign princes, but their power was often derived from fragile agreements with their larger and stronger neighbors.

Thus while other European sovereigns were building luxurious, modern Renaissance and Baroque palaces, politics and common sense demanded that the palace of the Monegasque rulers be fortified. This unique requirement, at such a late stage in history, has made the palace at Monaco one of the most unusual in Europe. Indeed, when its fortifications were finally relaxed during the late 18th century, it was seized by the French and stripped of its treasures, and fell into decline, while the Grimaldi were exiled for over 20 years.

During the 19th and early 20th centuries, the palace and its owners became symbols of the slightly risqué glamour and decadence that were associated with Monte Carlo and the French Riviera. Glamour and theatricality became reality when the American film star Grace Kelly became a chatelaine of the palace in 1956. In the 21st century, the palace remains the residence of the current Prince of Monaco and is open to the public during the summer months.

Why You Should Visit:
Nestled into the oldest part of the city-state, Monaco-Ville's medieval roots are still visible, making it a particularly picturesque spot. Even though only the ceremonial parts are publicly accessible, the tour is worth taking as the groups are small so you can move freely through the gorgeous rooms.

Tip:
Tour tickets can be combined with tickets to view the Prince's car collection or the Oceanographic Museum. If you are in Monaco during summer (July, August), do not miss the wonderful summer concerts in the Palace.