Born: 1415 (circa), Monaco
Died: 19 November 1515
Country most active: Monaco
Also known as: NA
Claudine as a significant figure in the history of Monaco, serving as Lady regnant and later Lady consort. Born to Blanche del Carretto and Catalan Grimaldi, she was the only child and heir of her father. Monaco’s succession, guided by her grandfather Jean I, allowed female succession on the condition that a female heir retained the name Grimaldi after marriage and passed it to her children.
Claudine’s destiny was intricately woven into her father’s will. To maintain Grimaldi rule in Monaco, she was betrothed to her seventh cousin, Lamberto Grimaldi di Antibes. However, her early years as Lady regnant faced challenges when Lambert, her fiancé, contested her grandmother Pomellina Fregoso’s regency. Lambert’s opposition led to political turmoil, with Pomellina’s failed attempt to oust him.
The marriage between Claudine and Lambert occurred in 1465, and was considered a happy union. Claudine’s involvement in politics during her tenure as Lady consort remains unclear. Lambert sought her consent for succession matters in 1483, signifying her renunciation of rights. Claudine outlived Lambert and their son Jean, who was murdered in 1505. Her will, a notable testament to her legal acumen, reiterated the succession order, emphasizing female succession without a change in dynasty. Claudine passed away in 1515 during the reign of her son Lucien, leaving an enduring mark on Monaco’s dynastic legacy.