The Prince’s Palace became the focal point of emergency response activity on the evening of Thursday, February 6, as multiple fire engines converged in the square at around 19:40. While the sight of flashing lights and firefighting crews may have raised concern among onlookers, the operation was purely a security exercise.
The drill, designed to test emergency response protocols, focused on the protection of priceless artwork housed within the Sovereign’s residence in the event of a fire. Similar exercises have been conducted in the past, including a large-scale operation in October 2020 and a subsequent follow-up drill in 2021.
His Serene Highness Prince Albert II, who observed the proceedings, emphasised the importance of these periodic rehearsals. “This is an exercise that needs to be carried out regularly. It is valuable to analyse closely and debrief afterward,” he told Monaco Info.
The latest drill underscores Monaco’s commitment to safeguarding its cultural heritage while ensuring that emergency teams remain well-prepared for any real-life crisis.
