In pictures: Princely Twins christened 10 years ago to the day
The ceremony took place in Monaco Cathedral © Pool Prince's Palace de Monaco
On 10 May 2015, Monaco Cathedral was a place of celebration as it hosted a symbolic event: the christening of Hereditary Prince Jacques and his sister, Princess Gabriella. Ten years on, and the day after the election of the new Pontiff, we take a look back at a memorable ceremony.
A few months after their birth on 10 December 2014, the Princely Twins Jacques and Gabriella, then aged 5 months, were officially welcomed into the Catholic faith with a solemn christening. The ceremony was both traditional and modern, with a host of guests, sumptuous floral decorations and strong support from the population.
There was a 21-gun salute as the procession made its way into the cathedral. The interior was lavishly decorated for the occasion, with 6,000 white flowers, including roses, lilies, lilies of the valley, broom and peonies. A message from Pope Francis was read at the end of the Mass.
The children’s godparents were chosen from those close to the princely families:
- For Prince Jacques: Christopher Le Vine Jr. (Prince Albert II’s American cousin) and Diane de Polignac Nigra (a cousin on Prince Rainier’s side).
- For Princess Gabriella: Gareth Wittstock (Princess Charlene’s brother) and Nerine Pienaar (wife of François Pienaar, a close friend of the Princess).
Following the ceremony, Prince Jacques was made a Grand Cross of the Order of Grimaldi, while Princess Gabriella was appointed Grand Officer.
© Pool Prince’s Palace de Monaco
After the religious ceremony, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene spent time with the Monegasques and spectators who had gathered in large numbers on the Place du Palais. The Prince and Princess waved to the crowds, smiling and chatting with the locals, in a friendly and festive atmosphere.
Hundreds of visitors gathered on a festive and sunny Place du Palais to greet the Princely Family, who decided to walk back to the Palace to meet the crowds.
