The Principality of Monaco is celebrating the 67th birthday of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II. Born on March 14, 1958, in the Palais Princier, HSH Prince Albert ascended to the throne in 2005 following the death of his father, Prince Rainier III. The son of the legendary American actress Grace Kelly and Rainier, the sovereign has carried forward the storied legacy of the Grimaldi dynasty with a blend of tradition and forward-thinking vision.
After earning a degree in political science from Amherst College in the United States, HSH Prince Albert returned to Monaco with a global perspective. His passion for the environment took root early, and in 2006, he launched the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, a beacon for sustainability and climate action. From Arctic expeditions to ocean conservation summits, Albert has become a tireless advocate for a greener future, earning respect far beyond Monaco’s borders.
Sports have also defined his story. A five-time Olympian, HSH Prince Albert competed in bobsledding at the Winter Games, his helmet emblazoned with Monaco’s crest. Even today, as a member of the International Olympic Committee, he champions athletic excellence.
On a personal note, HSH Prince Albert’s 2011 marriage to Charlène Wittstock, a South African Olympic swimmer, captured hearts worldwide. Their twins, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, born in 2014, represent the next chapter of the Grimaldi line. The family often appears together at public events, blending regal duty with a modern, relatable touch.
Under HSH Prince Albert’s reign, Monaco has flourished as a financial powerhouse and tourist haven while embracing sustainability. Projects like Mareterra, an eco-friendly coastal extension, reflect his commitment to balancing growth with environmental care.
Image: Gaëtan LUCI – Prince’s Palace
