MONACO NATIONAL DAY: THE GRIMALDIS SHINE IN A CELEBRATION OF UNITY, STYLE AND TRADITION

The celebration brought the family together for a day marked by solemnity and public display. The event delivered a series of moments that drew attention both inside and outside the principality.

Monaco’s Princely Family marked the National Day on Wednesday with a series of religious and military events that highlighted the Grimaldis’ displays of unity, the reappearance of several family members, and the stylistic choice of Princess Charlène, who attended dressed entirely in white.

The day began with the traditional Te Deum mass at Monaco Cathedral, led by Prince Albert and Princess Charlène and joined by Princesses Caroline and Stéphanie. The 47-year-old consort surprised with a white tailored trouser suit, a silk blouse with a bow detail, and a minimalist veiled headpiece a sober, structured ensemble that contrasted with her choices in previous years, when she opted for lilac, red or bicolor looks. A low, asymmetrical bun and diamond earrings completed the appearance, reinforcing a polished, classic image.

During the religious ceremony, officiated by Archbishop Dominique-Marie David, tributes were paid to Prince Rainier and Grace Kelly as cameras focused on their tombs. The mass also marked the first public appearance of Beatrice Borromeo since the birth of her third daughter in October. The Italian aristocrat, dressed in Dior, joined Pierre Casiraghi and the rest of the sovereign’s nephews and nieces, including Andrea and Charlotte Casiraghi, Alexandra of Hanover, Louis Ducruet and Camille Gottlieb. The only notable absence was Pauline Ducruet.

After the service, the Princely Family moved to the Palace to watch the military parade. The musical program included surprises, among them a performance of the Italian classic O sole mio, adding to other unusual selections seen in previous years. From the Grimaldi Palace balconies, family members followed the ceremony alongside the youngest children, though not all of them appeared outside.

One of the most talked-about moments was the arrival of 10-year-old twins Jacques and Gabriella, who again captured public attention. Jacques wore a carabinieri-style uniform, imitating military gestures learned during past ceremonies, while Gabriella appeared in a red ensemble featuring a dress with sheer sleeves, a matching coat and a headband-style fascinator. The young heir was initially seen resting his chin in his hands a childlike gesture his father corrected before asking him to applaud the parade. Seconds later, the boy followed protocol with precision.

Charlène took part enthusiastically in the singing of the Monegasque Anthem, a gesture that reinforced her commitment to the country’s traditions. During the balcony greetings, Princess Stéphanie drew brief attention when she appeared concerned about a small flaw in her manicure, which she adjusted discreetly before resuming conversation with her children and daughter-in-law.

The celebration also brought together the “new generation” of the clan. On another balcony, Pierre Casiraghi and Beatrice Borromeo were seen with their sons Stefano and Francesco, as well as with Maximilian, the son of Andrea Casiraghi and Tatiana Santo Domingo. Family scenes and moments of complicity among siblings, cousins and nephews strengthened the sense of unity within the group.

The official program also included the awarding of medals to the State Security Corps and complementary events such as fireworks and concerts at Port Hercules. As every November 19, the day sought to reaffirm the bond between Monegasque citizens and the House of Grimaldi, with a prominent presence of its youngest members and a strong symbolic emphasis on institutional continuity.