Prince Albert II on National Day: the highlights in pictures

Combining military parades and Italian-Monegasque friendship, National Day on 19 November continued the ceremonial tradition established by Prince Charles III. We look back at the highlights of this year’s edition in pictures.

Following the distribution of gifts to senior citizens and the distinctions awarded to athletes ahead of National Day, the celebrations began with the Te Deum mass at the Cathedral. Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene attended alongside the Princely Family.

In the Palace’s Cour d’Honneur, the Sovereign then presided over the ceremonies in the presence of Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, while members of the Princely Family watched from the side. Several military distinctions and medals were presented before the long-awaited appearance of the family on the Palace balcony.

Facing the crowd and below the Palace windows, the military parade followed its course. The edition stood out for the participation of 33 Italian musicians from the brass band of the 3° Reggimento Carabinieri “Lombardia” (3rd Carabinieri Regiment of Lombardy), who came to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Monaco’s diplomatic representation in Italy. Final honours were paid to Prince Albert II beneath his balcony.

National Day concluded with the traditional gala evening at the Grimaldi Forum. Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene, joined by several members of the Princely Family and Minister of State Christophe Mirmand, attended the show ‘Bonsoir Monte-Carlo’. Blending revue and musical theatre, the production staged by the Opéra de Monte-Carlo and directed by Yvan Cassar paid tribute to Joséphine Baker, the celebrated artist and friend of Princess Grace.