Monaco is set to honour the birthday of Napoleon Bonaparte on Friday, August 15 with a programme of special activities at the Grimaldi Forum, where the exhibition Monaco and the Napoleons: Intertwined Destinies runs until the end of the month.
The show gathers more than 180 artworks, rare documents and historical objects linked to the first French Emperor and his era, many of which have never been displayed together before. Visitors can view Napoleon’s iconic bicorne hat, intricate mechanical songbirds popular in his time, and portraits by leading artists such as François Gérard, Jacques-Louis David, Antonio Canova, Jean-Baptiste Isabey and Carle Vernet.
The exhibition explores both Napoleon’s personal story and the deep ties between the French imperial dynasty and the Princes of Monaco during the 19th century. It examines how the image of Bonaparte evolved from man to legend, offering insight into the creation of one of history’s most enduring myths.
In the days surrounding the anniversary, the Grimaldi Forum will offer guided tours in English, including themed visits on Friday, August 15 at midday and 16:00, alongside a special “Happy Hours” tour on Thursday, August 14 at 18:00. The events give visitors an opportunity to engage more closely with the stories behind the artefacts and the historic links between Monaco and Napoleon’s France.
The exhibition continues until Sunday, August 31.
