The children of Prince Albert II and Charlene of Monaco, the twins Jacques and Gabriella, stole the spotlight during Pope Leo XIV’s historic visit. This Saturday, the pontiff made a whirlwind apostolic trip to the Principality, drawing nearly the entire Monegasque family together for the occasion: Pierre and Beatrice Casiraghi, Louis and Marie Ducruet, and Charlotte Casiraghi, as well as the sovereign’s sisters, Princesses Stéphanie and Caroline.
The young royals, who will turn 12 on December 10, became the undisputed stars of the evening, greeting the crowd from the balcony and featuring in a historic photo alongside the Pope.
© Getty ImagesA Landmark Moment for Monaco
In Monaco, Catholicism is the official religion, making the day truly unforgettable for both the Grimaldi family and ordinary citizens alike. Pope Leo XIV’s visit marks the first time in the modern era that a pontiff has come to Monaco. To find earlier traces of a papal presence in the Principality, you have to look far back: Paul III was received in 1538, and the remains of Pope Pius VI passed through during their transfer from Valencia to Rome in February 1802.
© Getty ImagesCharlene wore white, a Vatican protocol privilege granted to Catholic royal consorts during audiences with the Pope, known in diplomatic terms as le privilège du blanc,” an honor she shared with her young daughter Gabriella.
© Corbis via Getty ImagesTo the sound of a cannon salute, the Grimaldi family welcomed Leo XIV at Monaco’s heliport, near the marina that hosts the megayachts of the rich and famous.
© Getty ImagesThe young Royals take center stage
The presence of the heir apparent and his sister was therefore essential and highly anticipated. The children steal the spotlight every time they appear alongside their parents, having taken part in Monaco’s official life from a very young age. This is not the first time they have made a strong impression on those in attendance. During the celebrations marking the 20th anniversary of their father’s reign this past July, citizens widely praised them.
© Getty Images
© Corbis via Getty ImagesThis Saturday, both Jacques and Gabriella showed a natural poise and grace when accompanying Albert and Charlene at various official events. One of the most discussed moments was Gabriella’s curtsy, echoing her mother’s. Meanwhile, Jacques gave a respectful bow as the Pontiff arrived at the Prince’s Palace, where the entire family greeted the crowd that had been eagerly awaiting Leo XIV’s arrival.
© Getty ImagesA packed schedule of official events
The coming hours, packed with official engagements, will amount to a true marathon for both Leo XIV and the Grimaldis. A private audience between the Pontiff and his host, an exchange of gifts, official photos, a balcony appearance, and signing the book of Heads of State. Undoubtedly, this tightly scheduled agenda marks a historic visit where no detail will go unnoticed.
© Getty ImagesAfter the diplomatic events, the Pope will head to Monaco Cathedral and the Church of Sainte Dévote before presiding over a Mass at Stade Louis II, the venue where AS Monaco plays its league matches, in the presence of the princely family, religious authorities, and the faithful. Up to 15,000 people are expected to attend the service.
© POOL/AFP via Getty ImagesA Message of peace and responsibility
After nearly five centuries without a papal visit, a Pope has returned to Monaco with a clear mission: to defend life, emphasizing the important role microstates can play as laboratories of peace in times of conflict.
In his opening remarks from the palace balcony, Leo XIV urged Monaco to use its wealth, influence, and gift of smallness for the common good. He stressed that this message is especially crucial at a historical moment when displays of power and the logic of oppression are harming the world and endangering peace.
© Getty imagesSpeaking in French to the faithful gathered nearby and to those watching from home, the Pope encouraged the Monegasque people to live out their faith and to remain always ready to protect every human life with love, at all times and in every condition, so that no one is ever excluded from the table of fraternity.
Read the full article here
