Monaco has strengthened its historical ties with the small French village of Bathernay by providing financial support for the construction of a museum dedicated to Humbert de Bathernay, an influential figure in the French court and a distant ancestor of His Serene Highness Prince Albert I…

This initiative is part of an effort to preserve and promote the shared heritage between the Principality and Bathernay, which, unlike the feudal connection with the Duchy of Valentinois, is rooted in ancestry dating back to the late Middle Ages and early modern period.

Humbert de Bathernay played a key role in the French monarchy, serving as chamberlain, advisor, and ambassador to kings from Louis XI to François I. His lineage later merged with the Grimaldi dynasty through the marriage of Françoise de Daon du Lude to Jacques II de Matignon in the 17th century, reinforcing the historical connection between Monaco and Bathernay. His Serene Highness Prince Albert II himself owns a bust of Françoise de Daon du Lude, which he acquired in 2011 and placed on deposit at the Museum of Fine Arts of Saint-Lô in Normandy.

The village of Bathernay, recognizing this rich historical connection, has undertaken a major restoration project to preserve its lordly residence and ancient caves, where predecessors once lived. The museum, set to be housed within these historic structures, will feature archaeological exhibits, historical artifacts, and interactive mapping displays. Additionally, a 100-seat open-air theatre will be constructed at the foot of the millennium-old rampart.

The project is already in motion, with construction set to begin within a month, and the museum is expected to be inaugurated by Prince Albert II in 2026. In recognition of this enduring connection, Bathernay was officially designated a Historic Grimaldi Site in May 2023, further cementing its significance in Monaco’s history.

Image: Monaco Info