With exceptional brilliance and international radiance, the 6th Edition of the Grand Prix Maria Callas Monaco Gala & Awards that is held Under The High Patronage of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco in the Principality of Monaco, in April 29th, reaffirming its status as one of the world’s most distinguished artistic events. The charity event is always dedicated to the incomparable Greek soprano Maria Callas, the legendary La Divina.
For the sixth consecutive year, the iconic gala, hosted in the cosmopolitan setting of Monte Carlo, surpassed all expectations, elevating standards of prestige, artistic excellence, and refined hospitality.
Under the Presidency of the founder, distinguished visual artist Ioanna Efthimiou, and Vice President, esteemed lawyer and philanthropist Theodora Michaloliakou, the institution welcomed prominent figures from the international elite.
The evening was honored by the commanding presence of the Official High Patron of the event, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco, whose enduring support for the arts and philanthropy, combined with his distinguished stature, bestowed an undeniable aura of royal prestige and gravitas upon the occasion. His active participation, including personally presenting the first awards, marked one of the most significant and symbolic highlights of the evening.
Set within an atmosphere of refined opulence, in the emblematic Salle Empire of the historic Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, adorned with gilded details, majestic frescoes, and exquisite floral arrangements evoking the essence of spring, the gala brought together members of royal families, diplomats, leading international business figures, and eminent personalities from the worlds of art and intellect.
It is worth noting that the event draws its inspiration from the original Maria Callas Gala held in the Principality 63 years ago, in 1963, in the very same venue, hosted by the Princely couple, TSH’s Princess Grace of Monaco and His Royal Highness Prince Rainier III of Monaco, with distinguished guests Maria Callas and Aristotle Onassis.
The grandeur of that historic evening was revived six years ago with the establishment of this highly successful institution, which each year recreates its magic, attracting world-renowned figures from the international jet set.
Among this year’s distinguished guests were HRH Princess Al Joharah bint Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia, Princess Olimpia Colonna di Paliano, U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle, accompanied by prominent Greek-American Christos Marafatsos, Italian Ambassador to Monaco Emmanuel Ruosi, President of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer Stéphane Valeri,and Walgreens Boots Alliance founder Stefano Pessina, the President of the Hellenic Community in Monaco Katerina Lanara , along with many other notable personalities.
Among the distinguished award recipients were Veronica Berti Bocelli, recognized for her extensive philanthropic work as Vice President of the Andrea Bocelli Foundation, supporting education and humanitarian initiatives worldwide; Enrico Toja, President and Founder of Elafonisos Eco, for his tireless environmental advocacy and commitment to marine conservation; renowned geopolitical analyst and Le Figaro journalist Renault Girard, for his longstanding contribution to international journalism; internationally acclaimed performer Arturo Brachetti, celebrated for his extraordinary artistic versatility and Guinness World Record recognition; globally respected philanthropist Mario Hintermayer, Greek soprano Maria Kosovitsa, honored for her lyrical excellence and rising international career; scientist Dr. Christos Nikolopoulos, for his dedication to science and philhellenic contribution; and Céline Roelens, for her impactful entrepreneurial achievements and contribution to Monaco’s economic and social development.
The evening reached its crescendo with a magnificent opera concert, featuring acclaimed Greek artists — soprano Maria Kosovitsa, tenor Christos Delizonas, and distinguished pianist Veniamin Chatzikoumbaroglou — who captivated the audience with a refined selection of renowned arias, delivering a truly unforgettable musical experience.
Equally significant was the strong philanthropic dimension of the event, as this year’s gala was dedicated to the international environmental organization Elafonisos Eco. In this context, an exceptional art exhibition was presented, featuring prominent visual artists who generously donated their works in support of the cause, including Marcos Marin, Dimos Flessas, Dimitra Bouga, and Fransesca Giuliano, reinforcing the powerful connection between art and social contribution.
The Grand Prix Maria Callas Monaco Gala & Awards is far more than an annual artistic event; it is a distinguished institution where art, excellence, and philanthropy converge in perfect harmony. Under the High Patronage and continuous support of HSH Prince Albert II, Monaco once again stands at the forefront of global culture and refined elegance, honoring in the most sophisticated manner the enduring legacy of Maria Callas.
