Exhibitions to catch before they close in 2023

In addition to the numerous exhibitions organised by Monaco’s cultural institutions, 2023 also saw some special highlights as part of commemorations marking the centenary of Prince Rainier III.  These unique events showcased different aspects of the life of the man known as the Builder Prince during his reign, from 1949 to 2005.

“The Builder Prince. An Ambition for Monaco” at the Salle d’exposition exhibition space on Quai Antoine Ier, from 20 July to 31 December
Over the course of his reign, Prince Rainier III oversaw a lasting transformation in the Principality. From adopting new constitution in 1962, to resetting relations with France, forging a place for Monaco on the world stage, and creating globally renowned events, the exhibition uses previously unseen models, plans, photographs and documents to show the Prince’s unique approach, and his ambition of ensuring the prosperity and well-being of his people.

“The Prince and the Circus” at Les Terrasses de Fontvieille, from 22 November to 28 January
Since 1974, Monaco has begun every year with a world-famous celebration of the circus arts: the Festival International du Cirque de Monte-Carlo. An essential event that will this year be celebrating its fiftieth anniversary! The exhibition looks back at how Prince Rainier III founded the Festival, with a scenography guided by the Prince’s own words. Featuring personal accounts, footage of iconic circus acts, never-before-seen documents, and numerous costumes and other creations, the whole history of the world’s most prestigious circus festival is on display at Les Terrasses de Fontvieille until the end of the forthcoming 46th edition.

“The Prince and his Animals” at the Zoological Gardens, from 31 May to 31 December
The Principality has a zoo overlooking the port of Fontvieille, nestling against the southern flank of the Rock below the Prince’s Palace. Founded in 1954 by Prince Rainier III himself, the Zoological Gardens are home to around 300 animals of some sixty different species, most obtained from customs seizures or exchanges with other zoos. Until the end of the year, the Rainier III Zoological Gardens are displaying previously unseen archive images of the Prince, a big animal-lover.

“Prince Rainier III, a rose garden in tribute to his wife” at Princess Grace Rose Garden, from 1 June to January 2024
“Every woman is a timeless rose to this world…” Such was the founding adage of the Princess Grace Rose Garden, opened in 1984 by Prince Rainier III in tribute to his late wife. When selecting the finest roses for the new garden, the Prince’s Palace was inundated with hundreds of offers of plants, which flooded in from all over the world. The Sovereign himself finally chose 315 varieties. Until January, the Princess Grace Rose Garden is hosting an exhibition of photographs showcasing roses linked to Prince Rainier III and images of the garden’s official opening.

“Albert I – A Prehistorian Prince” at the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology, from 20 March to 31 December
The Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology invites visitors to see a different side of Prince Albert I, exploring his important contribution to archaeological research and history. From cave art to the first methodical digs, the exhibition looks back at the enthralling  adventures and archaeological musings of a Prince with a passion for prehistory.

“Pathé-Baby: Monaco as you’ve never seen it!” at the Audiovisual Institute of Monaco, until 29 December
The Audiovisual Institute of Monaco invites visitors to take an enthralling dive into the history of the Principality as seen through the eyes of Pathé-Baby cameras. The archives dating back to the last century will transport you back in time. In addition to some early home movies, the footage also shows how the Principality developed over the period 1925 to 1970. The story of how modern Monaco came to be is told thanks to the Pathé Baby and the 9.5 mm cameras that followed it!