The Grimaldi family has ruled Monaco for more than 700 years

The Grimaldi family has ruled Monaco for more than 700 years. The country gained its current constitution in 1911 during the reign of Prince Albert I. He was succeeded in 1922 by his son, French army general Prince Louis II. Shortly before his death in 1949, Louis was succeeded by his grandson, Rainier III, who is still on the throne. No mere figurehead, the monarch wields a great deal of power in Monaco.
The tiny principality became world famous in 1956 when Prince Rainier married American movie star Grace Kelly. Their only son, Prince Albert, is the heir to the throne. Prince Albert is not married. According to changes made to the constitution in 2002, if Prince Albert does not have children, on his death the throne will pass to his sister Princess Caroline.
Next in the order of succession are Caroline's children, Andrea Casiraghi, Pierre Casiraghi, Charlotte Casiraghi, and Princess Alexandra of Hanover; followed by Caroline's younger sister, Princess Stephanie, and Stephanie's legitimate children, Louis Ducruet and Pauline Ducruet.