Prince Albert II makes Historic Visit to Pompeii and other princely news

Prince Albert II travelled to Italy (Irsina and Pompeii) for a two-day tour of territories historically linked to his family. In Irisina, he unveiled a Grimaldi Historic Sites of Monaco sign. The Sovereign then unveiled a commemorative plaque of his visit in Piazza San Francesco, before giving a speech and visiting the church and Cathedral of Santa Eufemia. 

Princess Stephanie honours Prince’s Carabinieri New Recruits

The Prince’s Carabinieri welcomed eight new recruits during a traditional ceremony, attended by Princess Stephanie, on May 15. Patron of the Carabiniers Corps, Princess Stephanie presented the Carabinieri insignia to the new Carabinieri during the ceremony. The insignia badges symbolize belonging to the elite unit, and were later blessed by Father Christian Venard, chaplain of the Police Force. The Monegasque anthem, performed by the Carabinieri Orchestra, concluded the traditional ceremony.

Having sworn an oath to the Sovereign Prince and his family on May 12, 2025, the new recruits will officially take up their duties on May 19, joining a group of 124 Carabinieri responsible for protecting the Prince and his family, guarding the Palace and participating in official ceremonies.

Prince Albert II invites Local Journalists to the Palace

Several journalists from the local French-language press gathered in the gardens of the Prince’s Palace on May 12 to speak with Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene. According to the Prince, small informal meetings with local press were once a regular occurrence, but had stopped happening over the past few years for various reasons. The Prince wanted to restart these interviews and was pleased to welcome the press in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

During the interview, the Prince spoke about how proud he is of his marriage and his children. He also spoke about the Principality’s big projects, including the new hospital and Mareterra. The Prince also highlighted the Monaco’s excellent relations with President Macron, who recently concluded the UN Ocean conference in Nice. He also touched upon the environment and looked ahead to the Blue Economy and Finance forum, taking place in Monaco on June 7 and 8, with President Macron expected to attend, along with about fifty heads of state and government, institutions and philanthropists.

Prince Albert II makes Historic Visit to Pompeii

Prince Albert II travelled to Italy (Irsina and Pompeii) for a two-day tour of territories historically linked to his family. In Irisina, he unveiled a Grimaldi Historic Sites of Monaco sign. The Sovereign then unveiled a commemorative plaque of his visit in Piazza San Francesco, before giving a speech and visiting the church and Cathedral of Santa Eufemia. 

Prince Albert II makes Historic Visit to Pompeii
@Axel Bastello – Palais Princier
Prince Albert II makes Historic Visit to Pompeii
@Axel Bastello – Palais Princier

Irsina, called Montepeloso in the 16th and 17th centuries, was a lordship enfeoffed to a branch of the Grimaldi of Genoa, close to the Grimaldi of Monaco. Girolamo, a relative of Lord Honoré I, was the first Grimaldi lord of Montepeloso. 

In Pompeii, the Prince was received by the mayor and Italian authorities before visiting the world-famous ancient archaeological site, tragically preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Prince Albert then visited the sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary of the Rosary in Pompeii.

Prince Albert II makes Historic Visit to Pompeii
@Axel Bastello – Palais Princier
Prince Albert II makes Historic Visit to Pompeii
@Axel Bastello – Palais Princier
Prince Albert II makes Historic Visit to Pompeii
@Axel Bastello – Palais Princier

Prince Albert II receives the prestigious PAM Award

Prince Albert II was presented with the prestigious PAM Award 2025 by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean for being a “Champion of Peace and Humanitarian Assistance” on May 13 at the Prince’s Palace. The award, accompanied by an plaque and a scroll, was presented to the Sovereign by the President of the APM, Giulio Centemero, and the Secretary General of the organization, Ambassador Sergio Piazzi.

The award was first announced on February 20 in Rome, during the 19th Plenary Session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean. More than 300 delegates representing 31 countries attended the announcement. This year, there are two PAM winners. President of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella, won the “Champion of Peace and Democracy” award. 

Pauline Ducruet’s New Swimwear Line is inspired by her mother, Princess Stephanie

Pauline Ducruet’s fashion label, Alter, is launching a new swimwear collection inspired by Princess Stephanie’s collection “Pool Position”, which was launched in Paris in 1986.

“Alter x Pool Position, a bold, sun-drenched tribute to the ’80s — Alter unveils a swimwear capsule inspired by Pool Position, the iconic label launched by Princess Stéphanie of Monaco.

Shot on film at the legendary Monte-Carlo Beach Club, the campaign channels Riviera joy, freedom, and retro flair. Inclusive, versatile, and made to shine from beach to city. Legacy meets bold new energy. Oh and by the way, it’s 100% Made in Monaco,” says Alter on social media.

Prince Albert II and Princess Caroline crown Simba at the International Dog Show!

Prince Albert II, the Princess of Hanover and Melanie-Antoinette de Massy attended the Monaco International Dog Show, held under the Big Top of the Espace Fontvieille on May 10 and 11. Over 1,400 dogs representing 26 countries and 262 different breeds participated in the competition. A jury of nine experts evaluated the competitors, with Simba, a Basenji, claiming first prize. In second-place was a Welsh Corgi Pembroke and a short-haired miniature dachshund won third-place. The event was founded in 1927 by Princess Charlotte and is now chaired by Melanie-Antoinette de Massy at the Société Canine de Monaco.

Princess Caroline Awards winners of the 56th Bouquet Competition

The Princess of Hanover, president of the Garden Club of Monaco, presented the winners of the 56th International Bouquet Competition with their awards at at the Yacht Club de Monaco on May 10 and 11. This year’s theme was “Flowers in Motion”. Mélanie de Massy was also in attendance. A “special jury”, led by Princess Caroline, included prominent figures from the arts and literary world and awarded a series of special prizes. The “official jury” composed of international judges, educators, and floral experts, presented Gold, Silver, and Bronze insignias, as well as the coveted Grand Prix: the Princess Grace of Monaco Prize. Swiss contestant, Margita Monnin, took home the grand prize.

Bouquets in Motion: A Blooming Success at Monaco’s Floral Olympics
HRH Princess of Hanover and Melanie-Antoinette de Massy and winner of the Princess Grace of Monaco Prize. @Communications Department – Philippe Fitte

Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella celebrate their First Communion

Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, who are both ten years old, received their First Holy Communion during a ceremony at the Chapelle de la Visitation in Monaco-Ville on May 11. The Catholic event took place in a celebratory atmosphere and was attended by close family members. Prince Albert II also received his First Communion at the Chapelle de la Visitation, in 1965.

“On this day of First Communion, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Hereditary Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella who received this sacrament with faith and reverence,” stated the Princely Palace.

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