Monaco top Princely News: Prince Albert II presents Futurum award to Dale Chihuly and inaugurates the Botanical Centre of the Exotic Garden

Prince Albert II presents Futurum award to Artist Dale Chihuly

Prince Albert II, honorary president of the Monegasque Futurum Association presented the Futurum Award to Dale Chihuly, an American glass artist. Dale Chihuly’s colourful, futuristic and large-scale glass sculptures push the limits of the imagination.  Instead of encouraging and awarding young talents, like they have done in the past, this year the association chose to honour the work and career of an internationally renowned artist. 200 guests, including Prince Charles and Princess Camilla de Bourbon, Prince Serge of Yugoslavia, and Italian artist Antonio Nocera attended the ceremony at the Fairmont Hotel.

Inauguration of the Botanical Centre for the Exotic Garden

Prince Albert II inaugurated the Botanical Centre’s new home. After two years of work, more than 10,500 plants were moved to new greenhouses. Before unveiling a plaque with Georges Marsan, Mayor of Monaco, HSH the Prince visited the site, guided by Jean Marie Solichon, Director of the Exotic Garden. The inauguration took place in the presence of Monsignor Barsi, Archbishop of Monaco and HE Serge Telle, Minister of State.

The new Botanical Centre preserves and protects many rare plants in its 900 m² of greenhouses. In the spring of 2018, the pedestrian space that runs along the greenhouses will be open and guided tours will be offered from September 2018.

Prince Albert’s Watch Up for Auction

Prince Albert’s watch went up for auction on Friday to benefit the Montreuillois school for children with autism.  The watch is a Swiss brand IWC, navy blue in colour with an elegant orange border. A luxury item, valued at 1,000 euros, that was sold at the Four Seasons room in Le Touquet. Thanks to the money raised, the association will be able to welcome five new children to their school.