Royal Central - Prince Ricardo De La Cerda
The Princely Family of Monaco came together on 19 November to mark their country’s National Day.
Prince Albert and Princess Charlene were joined by their twins, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, for most of the celebrations, alongside Albert’s sisters Princess Caroline and Princess Stephanie.
Embed from Getty Images
The day began with a Te Deum Mass at the Monaco National Cathedral with around 1,9000 guests before the Princely Family returned to the Princely Palace for a short parade and balcony appearance. Prince Albert reviewed the troops and presented medals to certain members of the military in the Inner Courtyard.
Not only were the working royals on the balcony to greet the Monégasque people but so were extended family members like the children of Princess Caroline and Princess Stephanie.
In the evening, the Grimaldis were dressed to the nines for the National Day Gala at the Grimaldi Forum in Monte Carlo, which marks the end of the National Day festivities. Prince Albert, Princess Charlene, Princess Caroline and Princess Alexandra were all in attendance for the closing event.
The family will have a few days before they celebrate again – this time American Thanksgiving on 23 November.
Embed from Getty Images
This year was a special National Day, or Sovereign Prince’s Day, as it honoured the late Prince Rainier III (Prince Albert’s father) in the year he would have turned 100.
Monaco’s National Day is held every 19 November. The date is chosen by the reigning monarch, but Albert chose to keep the day his father selected – 19 November – which is also St Rainier’s day and the day Albert ascended the throne.