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Old Governor's House

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Maison du Gouverneur, or the Old Governor's House, is a significant historical building located in Monaco-Ville on the famous "Rock." For centuries, this residence served as the official home of the Governor, who managed the principality's administrative affairs, particularly during periods when the ruling Princes of the Grimaldi dynasty were absent. The architecture of the house is understated yet elegant, blending seamlessly into the medieval cityscape of the old town. Its proximity to the Prince's Palace underscores its former political importance as a hub of administrative authority and governance. The building stands as a testament to the era when Monaco was a fortified city, and state administration was closely intertwined with military defense. Today, the house accommodates various government offices and is a key stop on historical tours through the narrow lanes of Le Rocher. Its well-preserved facade showcases traditional regional stonework and architectural elements typical of the 18th century. It remains a vital symbol of the continuity of Monegasque administration throughout the centuries.

Location: Monaco
Top sights: Prince's Palace of Monaco · Saint Nicholas Cathedral · Chapelle de la Miséricorde

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	11	11	12	14	17	21	24	24	22	18	15	12
Rain mm	55	53	62	56	48	29	17	23	47	88	123	81

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Old Governor's House is a historic building that may be open for visits, often as a museum or cultural centre. Access to the courtyard or facade is usually possible at any time, but the interior only at specific times.

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Typical hours

If the building is open, usual museum hours apply, typically 10 AM to 5 PM with a lunch break. Please check on-site or on the Monaco city website for current times.

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Photography

Photography is usually allowed in the courtyard and at the facade. Inside, there may be a photography ban or fee - ask on-site.

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Time needed

A visit lasts about 20 to 40 minutes depending on accessibility. With a guided tour or exhibition, it can be up to 60 minutes.

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Combine with

Combine the visit with the nearby Prince's Palace and Monaco Cathedral. The Oceanographic Museum is also just ten minutes away.

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Getting there

The building is located in the heart of Monaco-Ville and is easily reachable on foot from the port car park. The lift from the port makes the climb to the historic district easier.

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Insider tip

Visit the building in the morning when the sun nicely illuminates the facade. Look out for guided tours that often open additional rooms.

Geography

Coordinates

43.73080, 7.42120

Facts

Located in Monaco-Ville, the oldest district of the Principality.
Served as the primary residence for the Governor representing the Grimaldi family.
Built using traditional construction methods with thick stone walls.
Situated only a few hundred meters from the Prince's Palace.
Reflects the 18th-century administrative hierarchy of Monaco.
Currently houses modern offices for the Monegasque state administration.