Published on February 11, 2020Updated on June 19, 2023
The Principality has always welcomed the very best of contemporary creation. Sights for sore eyes, for fans of art, architecture, but also music, dance and the culinary art. Here and there, classic heritage joins hands with contemporary creativity to express passion more effectively. Passion that gave rise to collections in the Prince’s Palace, the Villa Paloma and Villa Sauber, the glow of gold in the Casino and Cathedral. Talent has wings, and the Bar Américain perpetuates a living legacy while, at the gateway to Monaco, Le Corbusier and Eileen Gray embody Modernism for eternity.
Step 1 : Villa Eileen Gray Cabanon Le Corbusier
In a single stroke, Cap Moderne unites architect Le Corbusier and architect-designer Eileen Gray. In 1929, Eileen experimented with a new art of living with the Villa E-1027, while Le Corbusier pursued his project to create the smallest possible home in his “Cabanon”.
Step 2 : The Casino de Monte-Carlo
Can we still imagine a simple villa, in 1864, whose main room now serves as the Casino’s lobby? Shimmering with a thousand lights, the Casino de Monte-Carlo has been enlarged five times throughout its history. More than a gambling institution, it has remained a splendid showcase of “Belle
Époque” taste.
Magnificent bas-reliefs and Bohemian crystal chandeliersadorn the Salle Europe.
Step 3 : Castelroc
Literally facing the Prince’s Palace, the Castelroc restaurant fully assumes its role as keeper of Monaco’s traditions. Its past is closely linked to that of the Bonafède family who have perpetuated for decades authentic cuisine based on local produce. “Stockfish”, stuffed vegetables, local sardines… all inimitable!
Step 4 : The Cathedral of Monaco
A privileged witness to solemn milestones in the life of the Principality, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-Immaculée on the Rock of Monaco contains the tombs of its Princes.One of its treasures, the moving Saint Nicolas Altarpiece, was made by Ludovic Brea in 1500 A.D.
Step 5 : The Prince's Palace
The “Palais Princier” is a real museum. Keeping pace with history, its Renaissance architecture has travelled down the centuries and still bears traces of Genoese towers dating back to 1215 A.D. The Court of Honour and state apartments play host to the Napoleonic Museum and numerous collections amassed by the Grimaldi dynasty.
Step 6 : Villa Sauber and Villa Paloma
Two museums open to the world promote and showcase contemporary creativity. The Villa Paloma and Villa Sauber pursue a fruitful dialogue shedding light on their artistic heritage. Exhibitions follow one after another, in a discerning programme that steps through the looking-glass of time.
Step 7 : The Bar Américain at the Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo
From Sir Winston Churchill to Lady Gaga, everyone has his or her own habits. The Bar Américain at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo is a legend which has watched the world go by. And table 16, facing the Casino, is still the favourite among artistes and celebrities. The bar’s successive metamorphoses have never dislodged the eternal round of warm colours, Havana, leather, amber and mahogany. Sip a signature cocktail in its velvety, jazzy atmosphere. A
unique ambiance!
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