In pictures : Monaco’s Princely Twins Jacques and Gabriella light the Sainte Devote boat
Hereditary Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella set fire to the boat alongside their parents © Direction de la Communication / Stéphane Danna
The Princely Family presided over the celebrations in honour of Monaco’s patron saint on Monday 26 January, continuing a centuries-old tradition on Quai Albert Ier.
The festivities began with the arrival of the relics of Saint Devote by sea, escorted by a procession of numerous faithful. The procession then made its way to Sainte-Devote Church, where the Blessed Sacrament was celebrated in the presence of Prince Albert II, Princess Charlene and the Princely Twins.
The burning of the boat
At nightfall, the most eagerly awaited moment brought a dense crowd to the port. To the sound of traditional polyphonic songs, the Princely Family set fire to the boat, a ritual commemorating the legendary arrival of the Saint on the Monegasque coast. Even a few gusts of wind did not disrupt the drone show. The letters ‘Viva Devota’ were visible in the sky, even from the heights of Monaco.
