An open-air museum
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 impassioned gaze, more than 200 sculptures found their way into the public space - many on the occasion of the Festival International de Sculpture de Monte-Carlo, 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 Chemin des Sculptures Rainier III showcases this heritage through an interactive trail linking Monaco-Ville, Fontvieille and Monte-Carlo. 200 monumental works immerse visitors in the Principality's sculptural 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 the Principality's emblematic districts.
- In Monaco-Ville, on the Rock, between Place de la Visitation and 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 and founder of the Grimaldi dynasty, symbolically immortalized in front of the Prince's Palace. The tour also features several illustrious busts, including 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, flowery alleys and sea views. Emblematic works by Rodin, Léger (with his Les Trois Musiciens mosaic), César, Arman and Lalanne are on display. 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. While Anish Kapoor's Sky Mirror captures the light in the center of the square, busts of Massenet, Berlioz and Diaghilev recall the musical effervescence of the Belle Époque. Behind the Opera House, Botero and Valdés extend the stroll, while in the distance, Vasarely's Hexa Grace mosaic shines on the roof of the Auditorium Rainier III. Nearby, in the gardens, the bust of Prince Charles III pays tribute to the man who started it all.
An enhanced tour
To enhance the experience, each sculpture is accompanied by a QR code giving access to a detailed information sheet: name of the artist, context of creation, link with Monaco... In addition, the site provides an interactive map locating all the works on the Chemin des Sculptures Rainier III. Handy for guiding you 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!
Art meets the city
When you follow the Chemin des Sculptures Rainier III, you'll discover much more than just works of art: you'll discover an entire cultural history. A Principality which, under the impetus of Prince Rainier III, has made art an integral part of its living environment - a commitment which H.S.H. Prince Albert II pursues 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.