Monaco - Saint Nicholas Cathedral
Discovering the Cathedral of Monaco
The Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate, more commonly known as the Cathedral of Monaco, is a spiritual and historical heart of the Principality. Situated on a prominent street in the historic Old Town (GPS: 43.729988, 7.422632), it acts as a key landmark connecting the renowned Oceanographic Museum to the iconic Palace Square (Place du Palais). This stunning Roman-Byzantine-style building stands as a powerful symbol of Monaco's faith and royal heritage. Its strategic location makes it an unmissable stop on any walking tour of the rock, offering both religious significance and architectural beauty in a compact, easily accessible area.
Parking in Monaco
Parking in the dense and vertical city of Monaco can be a challenge, but the Principality is equipped with a network of modern underground car parks designed to make your visit as convenient as possible. For exploring the historic Monaco-Ville, selecting the right parking garage is crucial for easy access. The recommended car park offers a direct link to the main attractions, including the Oceanographic Museum and the Cathedral, minimizing walking time and allowing you to maximize your sightseeing experience without worrying about finding a spot on the street.
Nearby the Oceanographic Museum you will find one of the largest parking lots in Monaco (Parking des Pecheurs), which we already recommend to use while exploring the Old Town, so you don't have to look for a special place to park your car in order to visit the cathedral. Access to this parking lot (1; GPS: 43.731683, 7.427505) is available via Avenue de la Quarantaine, and then a short Pêcheurs tunnel. Note: The first levels of parking are reserved for people working in the area of the Old Town.
Visiting the cathedral
The Cathedral of Monaco is a must-see for anyone visiting the Principality, not only for its religious importance but also for its profound historical significance. This majestic Neo-Romanesque edifice serves as the final resting place for the members of the Grimaldi family, the ruling house of Monaco. The serene atmosphere inside provides a moment of reflection and a chance to admire the beautiful religious art and architecture. The cathedral’s history is intertwined with the very foundations of the Monegasque state, making it a powerful symbol of continuity and tradition. A visit here offers a deep connection to the heart of the Principality.
The cathedral (A; GPS: 43.730003, 7.422624) was built between 1875-1903 and consecrated in 1911. It is located on the site of the first parish church in Monaco which was built in 1252 and was dedicated to St. Nicholas. In the cathedral are buried many persons of the Grimaldi family, including the prince Rainer III and his wife Grace Kelly. There is also beautiful organ, renovated in 2011, having interesting backlight.
On 13th May 2014 the street adjacent to the cathedral was called the "John Paul II Avenue" as a tribute to him. The ceremony was attended by princely couple - Prince Albert II with Princess Charlene, as well as the Polish Diaspora in Monaco.
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