Monaco celebrated its National Day on Wednesday, November 19, with a full programme of traditional ceremonies attended by the Princely Family and coordinated with military precision across the Principality.
The day began at 9:30 with the Messe d’action de grâce and Te Deum at the Cathedral of Monaco, followed by the prise d’armes and the presentation of rank insignia in the Cour d’Honneur of the Princely Palace from 11 The morning’s events culminated in a second prise d’armes and a full military parade on the Place du Palais Princier, drawing residents and visitors to one of the country’s most cherished annual traditions.
Overseeing the entire operation was Colonel Tony Varo, a central figure of Monaco’s National Day every year. As Commandant Supérieur de la Force Publique, Colonel Varo is responsible for the coordination of all the Principality’s military units—bringing together the Monaco Fire Brigade and the Prince’s Carabiniers. His role as the “conductor” of the ceremonies ensures the seamless execution of each movement on the Place du Palais.
In keeping with custom, the Princely Family appeared on the Palace balcony to greet the crowd gathered below, offering one of the day’s most anticipated moments. Earlier, the family assembled in the Cour d’Honneur to participate in formal proceedings marking the significance of the occasion.
Monaco’s National Day remains a defining moment for the Principality—a blend of religious reflection, military tradition and public celebration, upheld with the characteristic elegance and precision that have long defined the event.
