His Serene Highness Prince Albert II travelled to Rome on December 2nd to take part in a highly symbolic moment for Catholics worldwide, joining Monegasque pilgrims in passing through the Holy Door of St Peter’s Basilica…
Opened only once every 25 years, the Holy Door marks the official entry into the Jubilee Year, a period of spiritual renewal and reflection.
This occasion marked the first time HSH Prince Albert II personally crossed the Holy Door, at the initiative of the Diocese of Monaco. He was accompanied by Archbishop Dominique-Marie David, Monaco’s Ambassador to the Holy See and the Sovereign Order of Malta, Philippe Orengo, and Ambassador to Italy Anne Eastwood.
The pilgrimage saw the Sovereign walk alongside many faithful gathered in Rome for the Jubilee, underlining Monaco’s close historical and spiritual ties with the Vatican. The Holy Door, a powerful symbol of forgiveness and hope, will remain open until its ceremonial closure on December 24 by Pope Leo XIV, marking the conclusion of the Holy Year.
For the Monegasque delegation, the moment carried both spiritual and national significance, reflecting the Principality’s enduring Christian heritage and its continued presence within the great religious traditions of Europe.
Image: Prince’s Palace/Diocese of Monaco
