Honoré I. (Monaco)

Honoré I of Monaco (* 1522 - † October 7, 1581 ) from the Grimaldi family was Lord of Monaco from 1532 to 1581 .

Honoré I was the son of Lucien of Monaco and nephew of Augustin of Monaco , after whose death he inherited the rule of Monaco. Since he was only ten years old in 1532, Etienne Grimaldi from Genoa managed to take over command and administration of Monaco on his behalf. Etienne, who was previously a courtier under Charles I of Spain , soon seeks sole rule. But Honoré also learns to assert himself and his claims. He recognizes Etienne as co-ruler for life and shares rulership with him when he comes of age.

In 1545 he married Isabelle Grimaldi , a niece of Etienne. With increasing expenses for the fleet and its castles, Honoré and Etienne ruin themselves almost completely. The main courtyard of today's Palace of Monaco and the Hercules Gallery were built during this time.

Etienne dies in 1561. Honoré continues to surround himself with "fine arts, weapons training and other honorable amusements". He avoids wars.

Honoré has fourteen children with his wife Isabelle, four sons survive him, who dies on October 7, 1581. His successor will be his eldest son Charles II.

predecessor	Office	successor
Augustine	Lord of Monaco 1532 - 1581	Charles II