THE PRINCIPALITY’S

Heritage

Even 400 years later Mur-de-Barrez still keeps memories of Monaco’s 150 year reign, impressing its visitors with the monumental Tower of Monaco. Monegasques are proud of it just as locals are. In 1913, the Monaco Tower was recognized as a historical monument and restored as a defensive structure, first erected in the late 14th century.

Another source of pride for Monegasques is the Murde-Barrez coat of arms, reminiscent of the heraldic colours of the Principality. The city hall also holds some unusual artifacts and historical documents, particularly interesting to Monaco history lovers.

On May 14, 2014, as part of their first official royal visit in 300 years, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène received a very warm welcome in Mur-de-Barrez. The Prince officially opened the Monaco Tower memorial plaque, assisted by the mayor, Alain Cezac. After a horseback ride, like a genuine medieval ruler, Prince

Albert finished up his visit writing memorable words in the City Hall’s Golden Book.

Interestingly, Prince Albert II’s father, Rainier III, once took part in the Monte-Carlo Rally under the name of Louis Carladès. Since December 11, 2014, the title of Countess de Carladès has been held by Princess Gabriella of Monaco (Crown Prince Jacques being Marquis de Baux).

The Mur-de-Barrez and Monaco’s relationship may be easily summed up by: “All’s well that ends well.” Nowadays, a tiny village of barely a thousand inhabitants and a country with the world’s highest population density, remain good friends and cherish their common history. Aveyron is a scenic region, home to ten of the most beautiful villages in France. It would be a wonderful place to see for the Monegasques proud of their country’s past.