Francesco Grimaldi (French: François; English: Francis), called il Malizia (from Italian: "the malicious") was the Genoese leader of the Guelphs who captured the Rock of Monaco on the night of 8 January 1297.

[1] The house Grimaldi was one of the most influential and powerful families in Genoa having allegiance to the Pope, against Ghibelline support of the Holy Roman Emperor.

[3] [citation needed]The event is commemorated on the Monegasque coat of arms, represented as two friars brandishing swords with the motto "Deo Juvante" which translates as "With the Help of God."

The citadel of Monaco was held for four years until the Ghibbeline stronghold was compromised over time under prolonged Genoese attack.

[7] Rainier Il's three sons-Ambroise, Antoine and Jean purchased Monaco in the name of Grimaldi from its then owner, Queen Yolande of Aragon.