Monaco’s National Day has long been a display of precision, ceremony and dynastic continuity, but this year’s celebrations were firmly dominated by two unmistakable figures. Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, who turn eleven next month, became the focal point of the principality’s annual festivities, offering the clearest view yet of the next generation of the Grimaldi family.
The twins joined Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene for the traditional Te Deum at Monaco Cathedral before appearing on the balcony of the Prince’s Palace, where crowds had gathered in the courtyard below. Jacques, the hereditary prince, wore a scaled-down military uniform that mirrored his father’s.
His sister, Princess Gabriella, wore a bright scarlet coat, Peter Pan collar and matching accessories. The outfit, both modern and ceremonial, underscored her growing confidence during official engagements.
The day brought together a rare full assembly of the wider Grimaldi family. Princess Caroline and Princess Stephanie joined their brother, Prince Albert, just as they had in 2005 when he formally marked the beginning of his reign. Several of their children attended, including Charlotte Casiraghi, Andrea and Pierre Casiraghi, Princess Alexandra of Hanover and Camille Gottlieb. Beatrice Borromeo made an early public appearance only weeks after welcoming her third child.
Princess Charlene, whose style choices often set the tone for major events in Monaco, returned to the main programme dressed in a white trouser suit with a veiled beret. Although she had not attended the ceremony the evening before, where Princess Stephanie received the Order of Cultural Merit for her work in the arts, she was present for the principal celebrations on National Day.
This year’s commemoration carried particular significance for Prince Albert. National Day has traditionally been set according to the feast of the reigning prince’s namesake saint. Albert chose to retain the date of 19 November, originally selected by his late father, Prince Rainier III. This year marked the twentieth anniversary of Albert’s accession, adding an extra layer of reflection to the event.
Yet it was the presence of Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella that resonated most strongly. Though they occasionally accompany their parents on state visits and Christmas engagements, their increasing poise and visibility suggest the beginnings of a more prominent public role. Jacques, in particular, is slowly easing into expectations that accompany his position as future sovereign.
As the family gathered on the palace balcony, the contrast between the seasoned royals and the exuberant children offered a snapshot of continuity in a principality that places great value on tradition. Jacques standing to attention beside his father, and Gabriella’s enthusiastic wave to the crowd, captured a sense of both heritage and renewal.
