Monaco's Architecture: Strikingly Beautiful

Located in one of the most stunning spots of the Earth, Monaco is known for its diverse and opulent architecture.

Architecture in Monaco

Monaco Architecture

Monaco Architecture – Influences

The architecture in Monaco is diverse in its styles and influences. Below are just some of the influences that shaped the architectural landscape of Monaco.

Medieval Influence. Many of the architectural structures of the historical and cultural importance in Monaco date back to medieval times. Monaco-Ville still has remains of the fortified walled city and the fortress built back in the medieval times by The Genoese. Prince’s Palace is one of such structures – it was built in 1191 as a Genoese fortress.
French Influence or Belle Époque. The historical architecture of Monaco has strong French influences, as evident in the structures, such as the Monte-Carlo Casino and The Opéra de Monte-Carlo.
Geographical Influence. Because of Monaco’s small size and unique location with lots of cliffs, many architectural structures in Monaco are built into the hills. Also, the architecture of Monaco has been influenced by the small size of the country, and many buildings in Monaco are high-risers.

Monaco Architecture

Examples of Medieval Architecture in Monaco

Monaco-Ville still has remains of the fortified walled city and the fortress built back in the medieval times by The Genoese.

Fortress, Rock of Monaco

The Prince’s Palace of Monaco is an impressive structure with a rich history dating back to the 12th century. It was built in 1191 as a Genoese fortress. At the end of the 13th century, the Grimaldi family captured the palace and it became their home.

Currently, the palace is the official residence of the Sovereign Prince of Monaco.

Prince’s Palace of Monaco

Examples of French Influence and Belle Époque

The Monte Carlo Casino was opened in 1863. The casino itself is a work of art, richly decorated.

The Opéra de Monte-Carlo is part of the Monte Carlo Casino. It was designed by the architect Charles Garnier (who also designed the Paris opera house known as the Palais Garnier). It opened in 1879.