Visitors were treated to a rare glimpse behind the scenes of Monaco’s seat of government during this year’s European Heritage Days, as the Residence of His Excellency the Minister of State opened its doors for the 31st edition of the event.
Guests moved through the elegant reception rooms before stepping out onto a panoramic terrace overlooking Port Hercule, taking in one of the finest views the Principality has to offer.
Adding a personal touch to the occasion, the Minister of State briefly swapped his official duties for the role of tour guide, sharing the history of the building with those who came to explore.
European Heritage Days is celebrated across the continent every year, giving the public free access to historic buildings and cultural sites that are often closed to visitors. In Monaco, the programme is a chance for residents and visitors alike to discover the Principality’s architectural and institutional heritage up close.
For many of those who took part, the visit offered a different perspective on a building more usually associated with official business than public tours. Seeing the residence’s interiors and its outlook over the harbour gave a sense of how the Principality’s past and present sit side by side.
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Image courtesy of Direction de la Communication – Manuel Vitali