Prince Rainier III
Prince Rainier III ruled the Principality of Monaco for almost 56 years, making him one of the longest-ruling monarchs in European history.
Royal Family Member
May 31, 1923
Gemini
April 06, 2005
81
Prince Rainier III, the monarch of Monaco, significantly transformed the nation into an affluent and glamorous haven for the wealthy elite. He modernized the country’s economy and boosted tourism by developing luxury hotels and casinos. Among his notable accomplishments are the establishment of the Monte-Carlo Television Festival, the Monte-Carlo Opera House, and the Rallye Monte-Carlo. He also founded the Princess Grace Foundation and married Hollywood star Grace Kelly. Furthermore, Prince Rainier III served in the French army during World War II, participating in the Battle of Alsace and earning the Croix de Guerre for his service. An intriguing fact about Prince Rainier III is that his reign over the Principality of Monaco spanned nearly 56 years, making him one of Europe’s longest-serving monarchs.