Today, the Principality of Monaco is experiencing one of its most heartfelt and meaningful anniversaries: the National Holiday or National Day. Also known as Prince's Feast, It represents a moment of strong cohesion for the Monegasque population and a privileged occasion to pay homage to the country's history, traditions and identity. The celebration has its roots in the figure of Saint Rainier, patron saint of the late Sovereign Prince Rainier III. It was the current monarch who decided to keep this date as a sign of profound gratitude to his father, choosing not to replace it with 15 November, the day dedicated to Saint Albert. A symbolic and affectionate choice, reflecting the bond between generations and respect for dynastic continuity. In keeping with tradition, the princely family gathered again this year in the Court of Honour of the Princier Palace, the institutional heart of Monegasque life. After the ceremonies and appointments that marked the previous days, the presence of the sovereign together with his wife and children represented a tangible sign of the closeness of the Princely House to the citizens of the Principality. Through official channels, images and messages were shared that accompanied the celebrations, highlighting the spirit of unity and the community dimension of this important day.
The programme
The festival programme, as always rich and solemn, touched on the most representative places of the Principality's religious and civic life. The Mass of Thanksgiving in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception opened the celebrations with a moment of spirituality and gratitude, followed by the traditional taking up of arms and the presentation of badges of rank in the Court of Honour. The military ceremony, marked by the discipline and elegance that characterise the Monegasque forces, was one of the most eagerly awaited moments, culminating in the parade on the Princely Palace Square. There was no lack of the traditional salute from the balcony, a gesture always very much felt by Monegasques. The appearance of the sovereign family is a symbol of continuity and closeness, ideally uniting institutions and citizens in an atmosphere of festivity and national pride. Every year, this moment takes on a special value, renewing the relationship of trust and affection that binds the population to the reigning dynasty.
The guests of honour
Among this year's guests of honour, a special role was reserved for the’Carabinieri Corps: the Fanfare of the 3rd Lombardy Carabinieri Regiment was invited by the sovereign to take part in the celebrations. A gesture that pays tribute to the deep relations that have united Monaco and Italy for centuries. In fact, it is well known how Francesco Grimaldi, the progenitor of the dynasty, came to the Rocher of Monaco from Genoa back in 1297, starting a story that continues to this day and inextricably links the two shores of the Mediterranean.
The Meaning
The National Day is therefore much more than just a celebrationIt is an affirmation of Monaco's identity, its tradition and its institutional stability. It is an opportunity to pay tribute to the Princely House, which continues to play its role with commitment, balance and dedication. And, above all, it is a moment when the entire Principality renews its sense of belonging, proudly preserving a history that looks towards the future without forgetting its roots.
Image @ Fabien from Pixabay
