A musée in the open air
H.S.H. Prince Rainier III had a clear idea: to make art visible, accessible and alive in the heart of the Principality. Between 1987 and 2004, under his passionate gaze, more than 200 sculptures found their way into public spaces - many of them during the Monte-Carlo International Sculpture Festival, which he had initiated. Monaco has become a veritable open-air museum, far beyond its palace and panoramic views. Here, art is on display for all to see.
The festival may no longer exist, but its legacy lives on. Inaugurated in May 2023 as part of the Prince's centenary celebrations, the Rainier III Sculpture Trail showcases this heritage through an interactive route linking Monaco-Ville, Fontvieilleand Monte-Carlo. 200 monumental works immerse visitors in the Principality's sculpted history.
When sculptures tell the city's story...
This heritage trail takes you on an artistic exploration of the heart of the City-State, following an itinerary through some of the Principality's most emblematic districts.
- In Monaco-Ville, on the Rock, between the Place de la Visitation and the Jardins Saint-Martin, works of art blend into this historic environment. Among them is the statue of François Grimaldi, known as "Malizia" ("the Cunning One"), , who seized the Rock in 1297 by disguising himself as a monk, a legendary gesture that founded the Grimaldi dynasty, symbolically immortalised in front of the Prince's Palace. The route also reveals several illustrious busts, notably those of Louis II and Honoré II near the Palais de Justice. Not to be missed: the statue of Prince Albert I, watching over the Mediterranean from the Jardins Saint-Martin.
- In Fontvieille, below, the route stretches from the port to the Princess Grace Rose Garden, with its gardens, flower-lined avenues and sea views. Here you can discover emblematic works by Rodin, Léger (with his mosaic Les Trois Musiciens), César, Arman and Lalanne. A peaceful setting celebrating nature and the memory of H.S.H. Princess Grace of Monaco, to whom Kees Verkade pays a vibrant tribute.
- In Monte Carlo, the route unfolds around the Place du Casino, between the Jardins des Boulingrins and the terraces overlooking the sea. Anish Kapoor'sSky Mirror captures the light in the centre of the square, while busts of Massenet, Berlioz and Diaghilev recall the musical effervescence of the Belle Époque. Behind the Opera House, Botero and Valdés extend the walk, while in the distance Vasarely's Hexa Grace mosaic shines on the roof of theRainier III auditorium. Not far away, in the gardens, the bust of Prince Charles III pays tribute to the man who started it all.
Analade augmentée
To enhance the visit, each sculpture is accompanied by a QR code giving access to a detailed information sheet: the name of the artist, the context in which it was created, its connection with Monaco, etc. In addition, the site provides an interactive map showing the location of all the works on the Rainier III Sculpture Trail. It's a handy way to find your way from one district to another, or from one sculpture to another. But once again, it's all about freedom! It's all about putting the visit together at your own pace. Above all, it's a lively, intuitive experience!
Rendezvoustween art and the city
If you follow the Rainier III Sculpture Trail, you'll discover much more than just works of art: you'll discover an entire cultural history. Under the impetus of Prince Rainier III, the Principality has made art an integral part of its way of life - a commitment that H.S.H. Prince Albert II continues to pursue with the same energy.
Each sculpture invites us to take a fresh look at these places steeped in history. Whether you're an art lover or simply curious, this walk offers a unique experience, deeply linked to the soul of Monaco.