The statue of Prince Rainier III of Monaco is located near the Prince's Palace of Monaco, on the Place du Palais. This bronze statue was unveiled in 2012 in honour of the prince, who ruled the principality from 1949 until his death in 2005. The statue was created by the Italian artist Kees Verkade, who is known for his figurative sculptures.
The location of the statue is symbolic, as it overlooks the square connected to the palace, the heart of the Monegasque monarchy. The pose of the statue is special: Prince Rainier III is depicted in a relaxed position, as if he were walking through the streets of his city. This representation shows an intimate and human side of the prince, a way of showing his closeness to his people.
Rainier III is known as the “builder prince” for his enormous efforts to modernize and transform Monaco into a fashionable and prosperous city-state, especially after his marriage to American actress Grace Kelly, which attracted worldwide attention. The statue commemorates not only his reign, but also his great influence on the development of Monaco.