Return to Monaco. I was previously here in 2001. I remember the hodgepodge of architecture and ritzy setting of the Grand Prix, which happens in the streets of Monaco every May (right after the film festival in Cannes). The weather couldn't have been better. We paid 1.5 Euro each way on the public bus. The 40-minute ride took us along the cliff-side local road and we got to see some of the other touristy villages. The sky wasn't completely clear but we still had stunning views of the water.
Upon arrival, we headed strait up The Rock along gentle (but long) pedestrian ramps that took us directly behind the principality's palace, where the Grimaldi family lives.
The main harbor of Monaco, Port Hercule
Statue of Francoise Grimaldi ("the cunning"), who gained entrance to Monaco Castle while disguised as a monk, then proceeded to seize the castle with his brother Ranier I in 1297. They were kicked out four years later, but later the Grimaldis took control via diplomatic alliances. Also pictured, a guard at the palace.
The cathedral where Grace and Ranier III were married, and now are buried
Behind The Rock, where the old city lies, we went to a beautiful terrace garden that overlooks Port de Fontvielle. Wow! I don't think it was possible to take a bad photo. The mountains were a little overcast but the light reflecting off the water illuminated all of the buildings perfectly. Later I compared my pictures to the one I took 13 years ago and it's obvious that some of the buildings have been replaced by bigger ones.
2014 on the left, 2001 on the right
The Oceanography Museum, once overseen by Jacques Cousteau for 30 years
Back in Nice, we took a stroll through the city and later had some dinner off of Place Massena
A bientot,
-Dani
1 comment:
Okay, Keith says no but I still think that seagull in the Palais Jardin was drooling at our French bakery take away lunch! Maury
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