History buffs and curious minds alike are in for a treat this summer as the Grimaldi Forum Monaco lifts the curtain on a captivating new exhibition: Monaco and the Napoleons: Intertwined Destinies. Running from Friday, July 11 to August 31, the exhibition promises to uncover the little-known but fascinating relationship between the Principality and two of France’s most powerful imperial dynasties.
Held under the High Patronage of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II, this landmark exhibition will explore how Monaco’s fate has, time and again, intersected with that of the Napoleonic Empires — both the First and the Second. Through a rich array of artworks, rare documents, and prestigious objects, visitors will be transported to a period when the paths of the Grimaldi family and the Bonapartes crossed in ways that shaped European and Monégasque history.
The exhibition is the fruit of extensive research by a trio of historians: Pierre Branda, Scientific Director of the Napoleon Foundation, along with Thomas Fouilleron and Thomas Blanchy, Director and Deputy Director of the Prince’s Palace Archives and Library. Their work shines a fresh, well-documented spotlight on Monaco’s imperial connections, from Napoleon I and Napoleon III to the influential figures of Empress Joséphine and Empress Eugénie.
Adding further prestige to the exhibition is the remarkable contribution from the private collection of David and Mikhail Iakobachvili. This father-son duo, renowned collectors of rare objects, mechanical marvels, and decorative arts, have spent the last two decades amassing a staggering archive of nearly 25,000 pieces. Among them are precious Napoleonic artefacts, many of which will be on public display for the first time within the Grimaldi Forum’s walls.
The Iakobachvilis, passionate patrons of the arts and history, are also working towards establishing their own museum to showcase highlights from their collection. This Monaco exhibition marks a significant step in that project, born of their admiration for French heritage and their enduring ties to the Principality.
Lending a contemporary voice to the event is Louis Ducruet, who will serve as the exhibition’s ambassador. Known for his commitment to preserving and promoting Monégasque history, Ducruet’s involvement brings a modern perspective to this historical deep-dive.
With its combination of academic rigour, rare artefacts, and personal passion, Monaco and the Napoleons: Intertwined Destinies is poised to be one of the cultural highlights of the summer season. Full details, including key pieces and exhibition highlights, will be unveiled in the coming weeks.
