His Serene Highness Prince Albert II has begun a two-day visit to France dedicated to exploring the history of his ancestors, with the first stop taking place in the small Drôme village of Bathernay…
Nestled in the picturesque Drôme des Collines region, the village of just 251 inhabitants shares deep historical ties with the Grimaldi family through Imbert de Bathernay, a prominent nobleman who served four kings of France.
The visit highlighted the enduring connection between Monaco and Bathernay, which today forms part of the Grimaldi Historic Sites network. Local residents welcomed the Sovereign warmly, proud of the recognition given to a heritage that had long remained little known outside the region.
Historical links between the Grimaldis and Bathernay pass notably through Françoise de Daon du Lude, a descendant of Imbert de Bathernay and wife of Jacques I of Monaco. Another descendant, Diane de Poitiers, also held the title of Duchess of Valentinois, a title later associated closely with the Principality.
During the visit, HSH Prince Albert II toured a museum dedicated to preserving this shared heritage. Monaco contributed €50,000 towards the creation of the site, underlining the Principality’s commitment to safeguarding its historical connections.
The Sovereign praised efforts to bring Imbert de Bathernay “out of the shadows,” describing him as a remarkable figure whose legacy deserves wider recognition.
Image: Monaco Info