Embedded dramatically into the cliffs of Monaco-Ville is the Oceanographic Museum, one of the most unique venues in the world for a sea life centre. “The Temple of the Sea,” as it is also known, offers over 6,000 specimens for visitors to examine. Marvel at intricate beds of coral and shoals of brightly colored tropical fish, and look for predators lurking in the waters too.
This unique museum was founded by Prince Albert I in 1910 and is dedicated to both science and art. As such, its halls are used to display contemporary painting and sculpture and house the underwater plants and animals. The museum is environmentally oriented and pumps in water from the sea for its aquariums. Learn more about ocean conservation through its displays.
Look below the surface in the museum's aquarium, which is over 19 feet (6 metres) deep. Blacktip reef sharks and nurse sharks share the water with turtles, eels and giant guitarfish. Be dazzled by the colours of coral at the Djibouti reef, one of the first man-made ecosystems of its kind.
Feel the scales and gills of these underwater animals in the Touch Tank. Teams from the museum introduce visitors to several marine creatures. Children and adults alike are free to hold them. Learn more about each creature and find out how to identify and respect them from the on-site experts.
Walk on to the museum terrace to see the turtle island enclosure and to enjoy views of the Mediterranean coastline. The terrace also features games for the children and places to sit and relax.
Discover the history of underwater exploration in the exhibition rooms of the museum. Skeletons, fossils and other marine-related items are brought together in a huge collection of oceanic curiosities. The displays are split between nature and human intervention.
Find the Oceanographic Museum on the edge of Monaco-Ville. The museum is open all day throughout the year except during the Grand Prix. Tickets do not include entry to the Touch Tank, which has an extra fee.
