Architectural and artistic elements of Monaco

The Opéra Garnier Monte-Carlo, jewel of the Belle Époque

Built in 1879 by Charles Garnier - the architect of the Paris Opéra - the The Opéra de Monte-Carlo occupies the south wing of the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo. Inside, the Salle Garnier, an Italian-style theater, is distinguished by its Belle Époque ornamentation: frescoes, gilded stucco, marble columns and painted ceilings provide a sumptuous setting, originally designed for a wealthy cosmopolitan clientele. The great Sarah Bernhardt was one of the first artists to perform here, at the time of its inauguration. Today, under the direction of Cécilia Bartoli, The Opéra de Monte-Carlo perpetuates this heritage of excellence by programming lyric concerts, operas, ballets and great international artists.

Fort Antoine, a theater on the ramparts

Located at the northeastern tip of the Rock, the Fort Antoine offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean. The stonework and small watchtower are reminders of the site's military architecture. Built in the early 18th century as a defense post, damaged during the Second World War and rebuilt under the reign of Prince Rainier III, it has now been converted into an open-air theater. Every summer, the venue offers a free musical and theatrical program open to all.

Yacht Club de Monaco: lines stretching to the horizon

Bordering Port Hercule, the Yacht Club de Monaco looks like a cruise ship, ready to set sail. Inaugurated in 2014, it was designed by British architect Lord Norman Foster, with Jacques Grange and Nelson Wilmotte for the interior fittings. This vast building, certified High Environmental Quality, houses the activities of the prestigious yachting club founded in 1953 by Prince Rainier III and chaired today by H.S.H. Prince Albert II, organizing numerous international nautical events. It boasts several restaurants and bars, as well as a swimming pool, reserved for members.

Villa La Vigie, a viewpoint over the Mediterranean

Located on the cape of Monte-Carlo Beach Villa La Vigie was for many years the winter residence of Karl Lagerfeld. Built in 1902, it overlooks the sea, offering 360-degree views of the Mediterranean, the mountains and the Principality. Its sober, classical architecture contrasts with the opulence of other Belle Époque villas. This exceptional residence, now owned by the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer group, embodies the great Mediterranean art of living and can be rented out for private stays or events.

Grimaldi Forum glass roof, under the zenith light

In the Larvotto district, on the edge of Mareterra, the Grimaldi Forum is the Principality's Convention and Cultural Center. At the entrance to this "ship of modern times", the large glass roof is the architectural signature. A vast atrium of glass and steel, bathed in natural light and freely accessible, it regularly hosts exhibitions, trade shows and cultural events, and can also be privatized for private functions.

La Villa Troglodyte, carved out of the rock

Hidden in the Principality's heights, the Villa Troglodyte is an atypical architectural project to be realized in 2019 by Jean-Pierre Lott. Built right into the rock, it uses it as a natural envelope, minimizing its visual and energy footprint. A model of eco-design, equipped with solar panels, rainwater harvesters and geothermal devices. Although not open to the public, it is often cited as an example of a luxury villa integrated into its environment. An architectural curiosity to be observed from a distance for those interested in ecological trends in contemporary living.