House of Grimaldi facts for kids
| House of Grimaldi |
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Quick facts for kids  |
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| Country: | Genoa, Monaco | ||
| Titles: | * Prince of Monaco
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| Founder: | Grimaldo | ||
| Current Head: | Albert II, Prince of Monaco | ||
| Founding Year: | 1160 | ||
| Ethnicity: | Italian | ||
The House of Grimaldi is a very old and important family. They are closely linked to the history of the Republic of Genoa in Italy and the small country of Monaco. Today, the leader of this family is Prince Albert II of Monaco. He is the son of Rainier III, Prince of Monaco and Grace Kelly. The Grimaldi family has ruled Monaco for many centuries.
Contents
What is the House of Grimaldi?
A "House" in this sense means a royal or noble family. The House of Grimaldi is the ruling family of the Principality of Monaco. This family has been in charge for a very long time. They have helped shape Monaco into the country it is today.
A Family's Long History
The Grimaldi family's story began many centuries ago. They were first known in the city of Genoa, Italy.
Early Days in Genoa
The Grimaldi family started in Genoa around the year 1160. They were a powerful family of merchants and leaders. They played a big part in the history of the Republic of Genoa. This was a strong city-state in Italy.
Ruling Monaco
The Grimaldis first took control of Monaco in 1297. A man named Francesco Grimaldi, known as "The Malicious," captured the Rock of Monaco. He did this by dressing up as a monk! Since then, the Grimaldi family has mostly ruled Monaco. They have kept their power through many changes over the centuries.
Famous Grimaldis
Many important people have been part of the Grimaldi family. They include princes, princesses, and other leaders.
Prince Albert II Today
The current head of the House of Grimaldi is Albert II, Prince of Monaco. He became the ruler of Monaco in 2005. Prince Albert II works to protect the environment. He also promotes sports and culture in Monaco.
Princess Grace Kelly
One of the most famous members of the family was Grace Kelly. She was a famous American actress. She married Rainier III, Prince of Monaco in 1956. She became Princess Grace of Monaco. She was known for her beauty and charity work.
Images for kids
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Prince's Palace of Monaco
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Rainier I. Grimaldi (1267-1314)
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Elena Grimaldi, as painted by Anthony van Dyck, c. 1623
