Attractions
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Established in the 13th century, Monaco's royal palace
has been the residence of the ruling Grimaldi family ever since.
The most famous resident was Grace Kelly, who was married to Prince
Rainier III. Every generation has left their mark on the place, and
as a result this is not one of Europe's most elegant castles from
the outside. It is worth taking a look inside though; 15 rooms,
including the Throne Room, are open to the public. In the south
wing of the palace is the Musée des Souvenirs Napoléoniens, which
contains a collection of Napoleon's memorabilia. The changing of
the guard takes place in front of the palace every day, lasting
just two minutes, so take care to be on time.
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Monaco's Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium was opened
by Prince Albert I in 1910 and houses his personal collection of
marine life, models of the Prince's laboratory ships and other
crafts made from marine products. The imposing building is perched
dramatically on a cliff and faces the sea, providing lovely views.
The basement houses an impressive aquarium with over 4,000 fish
species and 200 invertebrates, as well as the Shark
Lagoon.
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The Monaco Cathedral is a beautiful structure that was
built in 1875 and rests on a site of a 13th-century church that was
dedicated to Saint Nicholas. The Cathedral houses the tombs of the
much-loved Princess Grace, as well as the former Princes of Monaco.
During religious festivals and religious holidays, the sounds of
the Cathedral's splendid four-keyboard organ can be enjoyed, as
well as the Sunday mass, which is sung by the Cathedral
Choir.
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The opulent and world-renowned Monte-Carlo Casino was
built in 1878 by Charles Garnier, architect of the Paris Opera
House. The Salle Garnier hosts ballet, opera and concerts, while
the Gaming Rooms are filled with all the glitz and glamour one
would expect from a top-class casino. The rooms sport stained glass
windows, sculptures, and of course, the rich and famous. Jacket and
tie are required for men.
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