The Oceanographic Museum, the pride of Monaco

A monumental neo-baroque building overlooking the Mediterranean. The Oceanographic Museum of Monaco is one of Monaco's cultural landmarks. Founded in 1899, and inaugurated in 1910 by Prince Albert 1st of Monaco, the museum has an international reputation. During its rich centenary history, this cultural institution has been directed by major personalities, including the famous Captain Cousteau, a pioneer in the defense of the oceans, from 1957 to 1988. It now welcomes over 600,000 visitors who come to explore the 6,000 m2 of this monument dedicated to the sea. With this area, the building is the largest on the Rocher, alongside the Palace of Monaco. Set on a cliff, the museum overlooks the sea from its 85 meter high Baroque classicism.

A rich history

Inside Monaco's oceanographic museum, sea lovers can discover more than 6,000 specimens and 350 species of fish in a 100 tanks. For the youngest visitors, this is an incredible opportunity to observe the richness and diversity of our seas, and to understand its fragility via the presence of multiple pedagogical tools (touch screens, panels, definitions). The main room adapts to the rhythm of conferences and symposiums, sometimes focusing on the ice, the seas or the coral reefs ( at the moment, the poles and the ice). Easily accessible, and with several underground parking lots adapted for visitors, the oceanographic museum is mandatory when visiting the Principality. Its location in Monaco city and its easy access make it even more attractive. You can also get there via a pedestrian zone (though it's a bit sporty) along the sea front.

An idyllic setting

It is rare to discover a museum in such a beautiful setting. During the visits, you have the chance to enjoy an exceptional view over the Mediterranean. This makes the experience even more authentic when you lean back to watch the waves break on the shores of this exceptional building. Going to Monaco means visiting one of its jewels, more than ever in the spirit of the times as the oceanographic museum funds various ocean protection projects. "Monaco is a fertile ground for ocean protectors," sums up the Honorary President of the Oceanographic Institute, HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco.