An open-air museum
H.S.H. Prince Rainier III had a clear vision: to make art visible, accessible and vibrant at the heart of the Principality. Between 1987 and 2004, under his passionate guidance, more than 200 sculptures were installed in public spaces – many of them as part of the Monte-Carlo International Sculpture Festival, which he had initiated. This has turned Monaco into a veritable open-air museum, extending far beyond its palace and panoramic views. Here, art is on display in broad daylight for all to see.
Although the festival is no longer held, its legacy lives on. Inaugurated in May 2023 as part of the Prince’s centenary celebrations, the Rainier III Chemin des Sculptures showcases this heritage through an interactive trail linking Monaco-Ville, Fontvieille and Monte-Carlo. 200 monumental works offering an immersion in the Principality’s sculpted history.
When sculptures tell the city’s story…
This heritage trail invites you on an artistic exploration at the heart of the city-state, following a route through the Principality’s iconic neighbourhoods.
- In Monaco-Ville, on the Rock, between Place de la Visitation and the Jardins Saint-Martin, the works blend seamlessly into this historic setting. Among them is the statue of François Grimaldi, known as ‘Malizia ’ ( ‘the Cunning One’), , who seized the Rock in 1297 whilst disguised as a monk – a legendary feat 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 harbour to the Princess Grace Rose Garden, winding through gardens, flower-lined paths and sea views. Here, visitors can discover iconic works by Rodin, Léger (including his mosaic *Les Trois Musiciens*), César, Arman and Lalanne. A peaceful setting celebrating nature as well as the memory of H.S.H. Princess Grace of Monaco, to whom Kees Verkade pays a heartfelt tribute.
- In Monte-Carlo, the route winds its way around the Place du Casino, between the Jardins des Boulingrins and the terraces overlooking the sea. Whilst Anish Kapoor’s Sky Mirror catches the light in the centre of the square, the busts of Massenet, Berlioz and Diaghilev evoke the musical effervescence of the Belle Époque. Behind the Opera House, works by Botero and Valdés extend the stroll, whilst in the distance Vasarely’s Hexa Grace mosaic shines on the roof of the Auditorium Rainier III. Not far away, in the gardens, the bust of Prince Charles III pays tribute to the man who started it all.
An augmented walk
To enrich the experience, each sculpture is accompanied by a QR code providing access to a detailed information sheet: the artist’s name, the context of its creation, its link to Monaco… Furthermore, the website provides an interactive map showing the location of all the works along the Chemin des Sculptures Rainier III. This is handy for finding your way from one neighbourhood to another, or from one sculpture to the next. But once again, freedom comes first! Above all, it’s about tailoring your visit to suit your own preferences and pace. The experience is designed to be lively and intuitive!
Where art meets the city
As you follow the Rainier III Chemin des Sculptures, you’ll discover much more than just artworks: it’s an entire cultural history coming to life. A Principality which, under the leadership of Prince Rainier III, made art an integral part of its way of life — a commitment that H.S.H. Prince Albert II continues to uphold with the same energy.
Each sculpture invites you 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 connected to the soul of Monaco.