Remarkable Renaissance frescoes hidden for centuries beneath the ceilings of Monaco’s Prince’s Palace will be unveiled to international scholars and the public during a three-day conference from 19th to 21st March, marking the culmination of a decade-long restoration project.
What began in 2013 as straightforward decorative maintenance evolved into an extraordinary archaeological discovery when restoration teams uncovered a complete ensemble of late Renaissance frescoes across the palace ceilings. The works compose a monumental visual allegory of Grimaldi family history from the 16th century onwards, previously unknown and hidden from view for generations.
Prince Albert II will officially open the conference, titled ‘Images of a Renaissance Sovereignty: Ten Years of Discoveries and Restoration’, which brings together art historians, restorers, scientists and heritage specialists from across Europe. The event is free to attend but requires reservation, with simultaneous translation in French, English and Italian.
Three days exploring hidden masterpieces
The conference runs across three days at the Oceanographic Museum, ending with guided tours of the restored frescoes at the Prince’s Palace on the final day.
Thursday 19th March explores how the Grimaldi dynasty established itself over three centuries, including how the palace evolved from medieval fortress to Renaissance showpiece, nearly fell into ruin, then was brought back to life in the 19th century. The afternoon looks at the close ties between Genoa and Monaco in the 1500s, with new discoveries from the archives and comparisons with similar Genoese palaces.
Friday 20th March focuses on how the restoration actually happened – the techniques used to create the original frescoes, the challenges of touching them up without damaging them, and what restorers learned from similar projects in Rome and Pisa. Technical sessions show how laser cleaning works, how to protect historic facades, and how to develop environmentally friendly restoration materials. The day ends with hands-on workshops demonstrating watercolour preparation and restoration techniques.
Public access to restored palace
Saturday 21st March offers guided tours of the restored frescoes at the Prince’s Palace from 10am to 12:30pm, allowing the public to see firsthand the treasures that have emerged from a decade of work.
All reservations can be made at visitepalaisdemonaco.com/colloquefresques, by phone at +377 97 97 23 80, or by email at colloquefresques@mci.mc.
See also:
Forgotten Renaissance frescoes uncovered in the Prince’s Palace
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Main photo: Frescoes restored in the Throne Room of the Prince’s Palace, credit: Mael Voyer Gadin, Prince’s Palace