The Princess Grace Irish Library in Monaco concluded its milestone 40th anniversary celebrations in grand style, paying homage to the cultural and literary legacy of Princess Grace. On November 20, exactly forty years since its inauguration by Prince Rainier III alongside his children, HSH Prince Albert II and HRH the Princess of Hanover, a special commemorative book was unveiled during a musical celebration attended by distinguished guests.
Published by the Archives du Palais de Monaco, the book reflects Princess Grace’s enduring connection to Ireland, the birthplace of her grandfather, John Henry Kelly. It features archival photos documenting visits to Ireland by the Monegasque Princely Family, from Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace’s first State Visit in 1961 to contemporary visits by HSH Prince Albert II and his family. A digital version of the book is available online for all to enjoy, with a French edition of its historical section set to launch in January 2025.
Adding to its appeal, the book integrates QR codes that link to recordings of music performed by students from Monaco and Dublin conservatoires, brought to life under the direction of Jade Sapolin from Monaco’s Académie Rainier III and Dr. Helen Lawlor from Technological University Dublin. A notable highlight is a composition by Michael Flatley, the “Princess Grace Set,” created especially for the occasion. Additionally, a QR code leads to an evocative film by the Audiovisual Institute of Monaco, showcasing archival footage of the Library’s 1984 inauguration and an interview with the late writer Anthony Burgess, who reflected on the Library’s cultural significance.
As the year of celebrations draws to a close, the Library announced its 2025 cultural theme: “The reach and impact of the Irish diaspora.” The upcoming year promises a dynamic programme, with esteemed Irish writers and scholars gracing Monaco. Highlights include a lecture on a historic Irish chalice, a St. Patrick’s Day concert featuring traditional and contemporary Irish music, and a discussion with Pierre Joannon on his forthcoming books.
This programme is supported by patrons such as Sir Michael Smurfit, the Embassy of Ireland in Paris, and Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou’s Stelios Philanthropic Foundation, among others. Special recognition was given to Wil Byrne for his contributions, including new books for the children’s section.
The Princess Grace Irish Library remains a cherished cultural institution, not only for its literary treasures, including over 500 volumes personally owned by Princess Grace, but also for its vibrant engagement with Irish literature, drama, and music. Situated on the “Rock” of Monaco, it continues to be a beacon of Irish heritage and a testament to Princess Grace’s profound love for her ancestral roots.
For more information, visit www.pgil.mc.
Image courtesy of Axel Bastello/Palais Princier – Left to right: 20th November 2024, the 40th anniversary commemorative book was presented to HRH Princess of Hanover, President of the ‘Princesse Grace Foundation’ in Monaco and HSH Prince Albert II by Peter K. Murphy, one of the Trustees of the Princess Grace Irish Library and Paula Farquharson, Director of the Library
