The Château Grimaldi was built in the 12th century, and it was a residence of Monaco's ruling family until the 18th century. In 1946 the castle’s curator offered use of the château’s vast chambers to Picasso as a studio. Pablo Picasso came to the French Riviera after his war years in Paris and stayed nearby in a small hotel at Golfe-Juan. Four months of intense work produced 80 ceramics, 44 drawings, 32 lithographs, 24 paintings, 11 oils on paper, 2 sculptures, and 5 tapestries inspired by the sea and by Greek mythology. As gratitude, he donated all works completed during his stay. The first Picasso museum in the world was born. And these paintings are really worth a look. "La Joie de Vivre" (the Joy Of Life) is probably the most famous painting of the period. The view from the castle’s window is breathtaking as well. There is also a gallery of other modern artists--Léger, Miró, Ernst, and Calder, among others.
Our favorite Picasso painting here? "The Goat".
On the terrace visitors enjoy the Picasso sculptures and fantastic seascape. The gift shop on the first floor offers many different catalogues of different painters.
Musée Picasso open Tues-Sun 10-noon and 2-6pm; closed on Mondays and public holidays. Admission €4.60 adults, €2.30 students and persons under 26.