Musee oceanographic de Monaco and the Palace

Here is another museum that was on my bucketlist . The oceanographic museum of Monaco. As part of a cliff that drops straight down to the Mediterranean Sea, this museum has the WOW factor, and that is just the outside. To begin with, the building itself is simply captivating. It’s dramatically located right on the edge of a cliff, and the embellishment on its facades are quite special. Since it was designed specifically to be a palace of art and science, the lavish architecture seems quite fitting! Jacques-Cousteau was a director of the Museum for 30 years.

Inside is an underwater world of everything nautical and fishy. Sharks, exotic reef fish and even giant whale skeletons that fill an entire gallery are there! Be sure not to miss Oceanomania, the biggest collection of rare marine skeletons, fossils, diving equipment and nautical items. The museum is founded by Prince Albert I and it has become a world-renowned aquarium/museum. It is now. home to a dazzling 450 marine species, its centerpiece is a 6m-deep lagoon that features sharks and a charming coral reef. I love the underwaterworld and felt like watching the movie Nemo all over again!

However, my personal favourite attraction was the outdoor turtle tank. Because, who doesn’t love turtles, right? These are African spurred tortoises. The fact that the aquarium felt somehow connected to the sea made it even more special.

Siësta in the sun on the upperdeck

After touring the museum for a couple of hours, we decided to take in some sun, whilst listening to the ocean crashing waves into the fortress…so relaxing.

The Palace and changing of the guard

After our little pauze in the sun, we watched the changin of the guards at the Prince’s palace. A fort was built here on a rock in 1191, but only a little bit of it is left. The rest has made way for a modern palace. As of April, the palace opens partially to the public. It seems that you can admire Napoleon’s sock and handkerchief in the museum. How weird is that 😉?

We wandered the small streets with the beautiful houses that looked out at the harbour. Had a drink in the cozy hotel bar and went to bed…me dreaming about the underwater world …