The occupation of Monaco by Austria on May 17, 1814, occurred in the wake of the Napoleonic Wars, a series of conflicts involving Napoleon Bonaparte's French Empire and various coalitions of European nations. The Treaty of Fontainebleau earlier that year had resulted in significant territorial changes across Europe. With Napoleon's abdication, the Congress of Vienna convened to restore order and redraw the political map. Monaco, previously allied with France, was now under Austrian control as part of a broader strategy to contain France and prevent future uprisings.

Austrian officials aimed to exert influence over Monaco to stabilize the region politically and economically. The shift was largely seen as a strategic maneuver rather than a genuine interest in the principality itself. The Austrians intended to leverage Monaco's strategic position along the Mediterranean coast and utilize it as a buffer against French expansion. In response to these changes, the local population had to navigate the new political landscape, adapting to the shifting allegiances of their rulers.

The transition from French to Austrian control directly impacted Monaco’s governance, with new policies and military presence affecting daily life. Despite the change in ruling authority, Monaco retained its autonomous status under the Prince, although the new administration imposed restrictions that altered its administration. The occupation was part of a larger pattern of reorganization in Europe aiming to ensure stability and prevent the rise of other revolutionary movements, which were seen as a threat by the monarchies of the time.