Discover the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco

A rich and exciting history

The Oceanographic Museum, located on the Rock of Monaco, is a true jewel of the Côte d'Azur. The history of the museum dates back to 1870, when Prince Albert I, nicknamed the "Learned Navigator Prince", began his oceanographic expeditions around the world. After years of passionate research and exploration, he decided in 1885 to create a marine biology laboratory in his Principality. The scientific collections he assembled at the Universal Exhibition in Paris in 1889 gave him the idea of founding a museum to showcase his discoveries and disseminate knowledge about the sea and its biodiversity.

The construction of the building was a major technical challenge. Laid in 1899, the first stone was followed by only 11 years of work to erect the museum on the cliffside, on a height of 85 meters, while preserving the integrity of the surrounding gardens. Covering 6,000 m², the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco is an imposing monument overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Its neo-baroque architecture, majestic columns and allegorical sculptures make it a true masterpiece.

A world-renowned oceanographic treasure

The Oceanographic Museum of Monaco houses an exceptional collection of about 6,000 fish specimens and 300 families of invertebrates, spread over an exhibition area of 6,000 m². Walking through the different rooms of the museum, you will immerse yourself in the fascinating world of oceanography.

The tour begins with the discovery of the aquariums, where you can observe the colorful and diverse life of the tropical coral reef as well as the marine fauna of the Mediterranean Sea. From majestic sharks to clownfish and seahorses, you will be amazed by the diversity of marine species present.

The museum also houses spaces dedicated to the history of oceanography, with collections of stuffed specimens, photographs, ship models and marine mammal skeletons. Do not miss the exhibition "Oceanomania", which presents more than 1,000 rare and curious objects related to the marine world.

The Oceanographic Museum of Monaco also offers many activities to enrich your visit. Let yourself also be surprised by the projections with a virtual reality headset (ImmerSEAve 360°) that plunge you into the heart of the ocean. For an even more immersive experience, try the Escape Game, an escape game where you will have to solve puzzles to avoid sinking: " In 1901, on an expedition off Cape Verde, your boat was caught in a violent storm. Taking refuge in the laboratory, the door closes on you, and the engines stop... You must return to port with your precious discoveries and avoid shipwreck at all costs!" 

These fun and educational activities will delight young and old, and will allow you to better understand the importance of preserving the oceans.

A contribution to the conservation of marine species

The Oceanographic Museum of Monaco plays a major role in the conservation of endangered marine species. In partnership with aquariums around the world, it participates in reproduction and preservation programs of different species (such as corals, clownfish, seahorses ...) thus contributing to the sustainable management of natural environments and marine ecosystems.

The Odyssey of the Sea Turtles

The museum is committed to the protection and rescue of sea turtles in distress. Thanks to the French Mediterranean Sea Turtle Network, the museum receives alerts and intervenes to rescue injured or endangered turtles. The Monegasque Marine Species Care Centre takes care of these turtles and cares for them with dedication. A space dedicated to sea turtles is open to the public, with five care pools where visitors can observe turtles in recovery. Two loggerhead turtles, permanent residents, make visitors aware of the fragility of marine life. The odyssey of sea turtles at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco is a unique experience to discover and support the conservation of these emblematic species of the Mediterranean Sea.

In addition to its exhibitions, the museum offers animations and events aimed at raising public awareness of the importance of preserving the oceans. Conferences, international symposia and awareness-raising activities are organized in partnership with other institutions and the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation.

Practical information

The Oceanographic Museum of Monaco is open every day of the year, with the exception of Christmas Day. Opening hours vary according to the season.

To access the museum, you can go to the Fishermen's car park, Avenue de la Quarantine, in Monaco. A public elevator will allow you to easily reach the museum, perched on the Rock.

Entrance fees vary depending on age and different tour options. Combined tickets with other Monaco attractions are also available. For more details on prices and schedules, we advise you to consult the official website of the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco.

Do not miss the opportunity to visit this oceanographic treasure during your stay on the Côte d'Azur. The Oceanographic Museum of Monaco promises you a unique experience, between scientific discovery, wonder and awareness of the preservation of the oceans. If you are looking for an apartment for sale or an apartment for rent on the Rocher de Monaco, our team is here to help you. Contact us now for more information and find your ideal residence in the heart of the Principality of Monaco.