Monaco’s Prince’s Day celebrations unfolded under clear blue skies, uniting Monegasques, residents, and guests in honour of HSH Prince Albert II and the Princely Family on Tuesday, November 19. The day, marked by tradition and pageantry, featured the French Republican Guard as the distinguished guest of honour.
The festivities began at 9:30 with a Thanksgiving Mass at Monaco Cathedral, presided over by Archbishop Dominique-Marie David. Attended by Prince Albert II, HSH Princess Charlene, and members of the Princely Family, including HRH Princesses Caroline and Her Serene Highness Princess Stéphanie, the solemn Te Deum ceremony set the tone for the day. The music of the Petits Chanteurs de Monaco and the Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Pierre Debat, added a moving harmony to the service.
At 11:00 the Prince’s Palace Cour d’Honneur hosted an awards ceremony celebrating Monaco’s public service members. Highlights included promotions for Brigadier Michaël Denhez to Quartermaster and honours for Captain Hervé Matu and Warrant Officer Stéphan Combaluzier, who received the prestigious Order of Saint-Charles. Long-serving Palace employees, including Emmanuel Alleaume and Simone Gomes Figueiredo, were also recognised with Work Medals for their dedication.
The morning culminated in a grand military parade on the Palace Square. The Princely Family, viewing from the Palace balconies, watched as Monaco’s Force Publique, including the Prince’s Carabiniers and Firefighters, showcased their discipline and unity.
Adding a distinguished flair, the French Republican Guard headlined the parade. A section of the 1st Infantry Regiment, led by Lieutenant Hugo Leray, stood out alongside cavalry troops commanded by Colonel Marie-Audrey Leheup. The motorcycle platoon under Squadron Leader Karim Alioui and the 17-member French Army Choir brought a dynamic and musical touch to the spectacle.
This year’s parade paid homage to the 80th anniversary of Monaco’s Liberation with stirring renditions of Le Jour le plus long and Chant des Marais. The day’s events underscored Monaco’s deep respect for tradition, service, and historical remembrance, making this year’s Prince’s Day an unforgettable celebration of unity and pride.
Images courtesy of the Communication department: Manuel Vitali / Stéphane Danna
