Inside Monaco Royal Family's "Old Money" Mansions

Walk through the "old money" mansions of the royal family of Monaco and Grace Kelly, where Hollywood icons have dined alongside true royalty, and the very walls are steeped in nearly 900 years of history.

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Inside The Grosvenor "Old Money" Mansions (Dukes of Westminster):    • Inside The Grosvenor "Old Money" Mansions ...  

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Inside The Rothschilds' "Old Money" Mansions:    • Inside The Rothschilds' "Old Money" Mansions  

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TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 Introduction
1:04 #1 The Prince's Palace of Monaco
4:22 #2 Château de Marchais
8:25 #3 Villa La Vigie
12:00 #4 Villa Clos de la Cité
14:50 #5 Drimulra Cottage, Ireland

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Imagine stepping into a world where the lavish elegance of “The Crown” meets the cutthroat intrigue of “Succession”—a realm where fortunes have been amassed, power is inherited, and every detail speaks of generations steeped in tradition.

Indeed, you could do just that if you walked through the gilded doors of the royal family of Monaco’s most exclusive estates, where Hollywood icons have dined alongside true royalty, and the very walls are steeped in nearly 900 years of history.

This is the world of famed actress Grace Kelly and the Grimaldi family, a dynasty that has ruled Monaco since the 13th century.

In today’s episode, we’ll take you on an extraordinary journey behind the scenes, offering a rare glimpse into the opulent "Old Money" mansions of the Monaco royal family—homes that have witnessed royal weddings, state affairs, and the quiet moments of a family whose name is synonymous with wealth, power, and enduring legacy.

Number One is the Prince’s Palace of Monaco.

Monaco’s Prince’s Palace has cheekily rewritten its own architectural playbook over the centuries, managing both to preserve its medieval roots and flex its sumptuous muscle as a 21st-century residence.

The palace, which began humbly in 1191 as a Genoese fortress, was transformed by the Grimaldi family into a symbol of both refuge and regal splendor, evolving over time to embrace Renaissance elegance and Baroque boldness.

Inside, it offers a masterclass in opulence, with frescoed arcades, grand state rooms, and the personal touches of Grace Kelly, who blended Monacan tradition with American modernity, breathing new life into the palace while maintaining its historic dignity.

Number Two, Château de Marchais, is a striking example of 16th-century splendor nestled in northern France.

This estate has been a Grimaldi treasure for generations, embodying subtle elegance with its French Renaissance architecture and meticulously kept gardens.

Inside, the château boasts royal luxuries without excess, featuring grand reception areas, historical artifacts, and private chambers adorned with period furniture.

The château’s storied past includes hosting significant moments like the 1869 wedding of Prince Albert I of Monaco and serving as a haven during World War II, while today, it remains a private domain rich with history and tradition.

Number Three, Villa La Vigie, commands a front-row seat to the luxury of the Côte d'Azur.

Built in 1902, this neoclassical villa has hosted the elite of Monaco and beyond, including fashion legend Karl Lagerfeld, who transformed it into his summer retreat.

With its sweeping Mediterranean views and opulent interiors, Villa La Vigie continues to captivate, now serving as a luxurious rental retreat.

Number Four, Villa Clos de la Cité, owned by Princess Caroline of Hanover, offers a blend of Belle Époque grandeur and modern elegance.

Perched on the French Riviera, it combines the rustic charm of Mediterranean traditions with the crisp lines of contemporary design, standing as a testament to Monaco's architectural legacy.

Last on our list is Drimulra Cottage in Ireland, where Grace Kelly reconnected with her Irish roots.

This modest stone cottage near Newport holds a special place in her heart and remains in the Grimaldi family today.

Despite its humble appearance, Drimulra Cottage’s connection to Grace Kelly adds a layer of sentimental charm, making it a unique and poignant part of Monaco’s royal history.