Monaco is a tiny independent state on the Mediterranean coast, surrounded by France. The date on this timeline refers to the night in 1297 when Francesco Grimaldi, disguised as a Franciscan monk, and his men seized the fortress on the rock of Monaco, which began the Grimaldi family's rule over the territory. The family has held power there almost continuously since, although the principality was at times under the protection of other powers such as Spain and France. Monaco became known in the nineteenth century as a resort and gambling centre, with the casino of Monte Carlo providing much of its income. It remains a hereditary constitutional monarchy, and its ruler today is Prince Albert II.
Before and after
- 18 February 1294Death of Kublai Khan
- from 19 May 1294 to 20 May 1303Gascon War
- from 1296 to 1357Wars of Scottish Independence
- 8 September 1296Construction of Florence Cathedral
- 8 January 1297Founding of Monaco
- 1298Construction of Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia
- 1298The Travels of Marco Polo
- 1299Rise of Ottoman dynasty
- 1299Construction of Palazzo Vecchio
More in Civilizations & archaeology
- 537 CEConstruction of Hagia Sophia
- from 750 CE to 1258Abbasid Caliphate
- 778 CEConstruction of Kiyomizu-dera
- 802 CEConstruction of Angkor Wat
- from 29 July 1299 to 17 November 1922Ottoman Empire
- 1460Construction of Topkapı Palace
The era
This moment belongs to the Medieval world (500 CE to 1500 CE), kingdoms, faiths and trade routes. You can also browse everything in the 13th century.