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Month: October 2023

FPA2 co-hosts indigenous leadership event at Arctic Circle Assembly

by: Stephanie Horsman
26/10/2023
arctic circle

The unique insights, experiences and expertise of Arctic peoples, as well as the challenges they face in the modern world, were highlighted at a special ‘Indigenous Leadership’ event co-hosted by the Fondation Prince Albert II de Monaco at the recent Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavík.  

With the polar regions increasingly under pressure from global warming, the importance of involving the people who live and work in these areas has never been more critical.

Indigenous peoples’ lives are culturally entwined with their lands, and a growing number of leaders from these communities are speaking out, saying that their very survival depends on fast action.  

The Fondation Prince Albert II de Monaco (FPA2), in collaboration with the International Arctic Science Committee, has recognised the need to address the situation and took time to host a side event during the Arctic Circle Assembly that look place in Reykjavík, Iceland earlier this month entitled ‘Arctic Stewards: Indigenous Leadership in Integrated Biodiversity Conservation’.  

EMINENT EXPERTS 

The talks drew a list of prominent experts and scientists, including Victoria Qutuuq Buschman from the Inuit Circumpolar Council, Harmony Jade Wayner from the University of Alaska Fairbanks, Olav Orheim from the FRAM Museum, Martin Sommerkorn from the WWF Global Arctic Programme and representatives from the FPA2. 

The meeting offered a platform for exchanges, with the focus being on the vital role of local communities in relation to conservation efforts in the Arctic region, as well as taking note of the challenges they face in holding their way of life together in difficult times.  

“The event facilitated the sharing of insights, experiences and expertise among speakers, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and needs of Indigenous communities in preserving their lands,” organisers said after the event.  

ICE CRISIS TALK 

The FPA2 also co-organised a session called ‘Beyond Polar Bears and Penguins: Why the ice crisis matters to all of us’ alongside Global Choices, Mission Blue, Re-Earth Initiative, and Columbia University Earth Institute. 

Speakers for this event were noted US marine biologist and oceanographer Sylvia Earle, as well as Sally Ranney and Inge Relph from Global Choices, and Shreya K.C., an Arctic Angel. Each brought personal stories and insights to the table, highlighting the importance of championing the Arctic conservation cause.  

Through its own Polar Initiative, the FPA2 remains committed to fostering collaboration, improving knowledge, raising awareness and driving meaningful action to address the pressing environmental challenges facing the polar regions. 

 

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Photo credit: Arctic Circle Official 

Festival des Etoiles: Tickets still available for unique Yannick Alléno and Sven Wassmer gastronomic pairing

by: Cassandra Tanti
26/10/2023

Next in the line-up for the Festival des Etoiles gastronomic extravaganza in Monaco is the multi-Michelin starred Chef Yannick Alléno and three-starred Chef Sven Wassmer on Friday 3rd November.

Tickets are still available for the special “quatre mains” dinner, organised by the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer.

For this special evening, the “leader of modern cuisine”, Chef Yannick Alléno, will be joined in his restaurant Pavyllon Monte-Carlo at the Hôtel Hermitage by contemporary Chef Sven Wassmer. At the ‘Memories’restaurant at the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz in the Alps Wassmer reached the pinnacle of his career with three stars in the Michelin Guide, making him one of the youngest chefs in the world to achieve this distinction. He has also earned 18 points in the GaultMillau and other awards.

For this unique occasion, both chefs have designed a gastronomic menu with wine pairing that will undoubtedly take guests to new culinary heights. The event will take place on Friday 3rd November at 8pm; tickets are 650€ including wine.

An extravagant gala, featuring Alain Ducasse, Marcel Ravin, Yannick Alleno and Dominique Lory all cooking in front of guests at the Salle Empire at the Hôtel de Paris, will close the food festival on 11th November. The black tie event is priced at €850 per person, with each of SBM’s prized chefs serving a menu of their signature dishes.

RELATED ARTICLE:

Festival des Etoilés Monte-Carlo celebrates Dominique Lory and Jason Atherton

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Photo of Yannick Alléno by MONTE-CARLO Société des Bains de Mer

 

G&M Design Gallery showcases the history of Peru through the lens of Mariano Vivanco

by: Niki Borisova
26/10/2023
peru mariano vivanco

Ahead of a major exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Lima next year, Monaco’s G&M Design Gallery is hosting a preview of photographer Mariano Vivanco’s ‘Peru’. 

Mariano Vivanco, a renowned Peruvian photographer, has embarked on a captivating artistic endeavour that delves deep into his roots at the invitation of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Lima, which will officially open at this major South American cultural institution in 2024. 

Before that happens, however, visitors to the G&M Design Gallery in Monaco can get a sneak peek of Vivanco’s extraordinary works.  

Simply titled ‘Peru’, the exhibition is not only a presentation of Vivanco’s artistic skill, but also a testament to his profound connection with his homeland. In it, he expresses his deep pride in being Peruvian and the inspiration he draws from the country where his roots lie. Through the lens of his camera, Vivanco aspires to tell the stories of this vast and diverse land, portraying its history and mythology in a visually striking manner. 

The Moche civilisation 

One of the captivating facets of ‘Peru’ is Vivanco’s exploration of the Moche civilization, which thrived between 100 and 700CE in ancient Peru. The Moche people left a significant mark on Andean culture with their vibrant murals, ceramics and metalwork. These art forms are recognised today as some of the most sophisticated pre-Columbian creations. 

peru mariano vivanco
G&M Design Gallery has the honour of presenting a preview of ‘Peru’ ahead of its grand unveiling in Lima next year. Photo by Monaco Life

Pachamama, the Mother Earth

Within the heart of Peruvian mythology, Pachamama, the Mother Earth, holds a central role. She is the creative deity believed to fulfil humanity’s deepest desires and protect loved ones. Pachamama’s presence is celebrated annually by Andean communities on the first day of August, with Altomisayoc priests making offerings to seek her help and protection.  

Vivanco’s artistry delves into the intricate rituals and offerings that connect the material and spiritual worlds; the ceremonial blankets, sacred mats and the objects placed on them convey the desires and intentions of the worshipers. This portrayal of Pachamama’s significance pays homage to the essence of Peruvian spirituality and cultural heritage. 

Chimú culture 

Visitors can also travel back in time to the era of the Chimú civilisation, a pre-Columbian Inca empire that once dominated the northern coast of Peru from 900 to 1470CE, and explore their grand capital, Chan Chan, as well as uncover the lasting impact of their culture on the modern world through Vivanco’s captivating Chimú series.  

A “grateful” collaboration 

This preview of ‘Peru’ marks a special collaboration between the artist and the gallery.   

“I am grateful as ever to collaborate for the second time with my friends at the G&M Design Gallery in Monaco. Every time we work together, we have such a great time,” says Vivanco.  

Beyond a mere collection of photographs, the exhibit is a demonstration of the power of art to bridge the past and present, connecting us with the very essence of a nation’s history and spirituality.  

The exhibition is scheduled to run until mid-November, and the gallery is open 11am to 6pm, Tuesday to Saturday, at 11 Avenue Princesse Grace in Monaco.  

 

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Photos by Monaco Life

Where to find the best hiking trails near Monaco

by: Niki Borisova
25/10/2023
hike monaco

Step outside of the Principality of Monaco and a world of natural beauty awaits. Lace up your boots and get ready to explore some of the most enchanting and inspiring hikes and walks in the area.  

In Part I of the Monaco Life guide to the best hikes and trails within easy reach of the Principality, we check out the closest walks that can be found just the other side of its borders.

THE LIST 

From almost anywhere you stand in Monaco, you can pick out the so-called Tête de Chien that looms high in the cliffs that tower over the Principality. Taking a trip to see this natural landmark up close requires a relatively short, but very satisfying, hike from the French village of La Turbie.  

The path is well-marked and well-trodden, and results in a stunning bird’s-eye view of Monaco, the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains. Take a picnic and make a morning, afternoon or evening of it! 

The view down to Monaco from the Tête de Chien. Photo source: Pango Visuel / Facebook

Also on La Turbie territory is the Trophée d’Auguste, a Roman monument built in 6BCE to celebrate Emperor Augustus’ recent victories. It’s a must-see if you’re interested in the ancient history of the region and, by extension, Roman architecture. It costs €6 for over 25s to visit the protected site. 

Start off in the village centre and follow the trail up to the monument, which is surrounded by a botanical park that adds a natural element to this “imperial” experience.  

The Trophée d’Auguste was built in 6BCE. Photo source: Office de Tourisme Menton, Riviera & Merveilles

The Nietzsche Path or Chemin de Nietzsche is named for the famous philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche. A picturesque trail, it begins at the Eze-sur-Mer train station and heads uphill to culminate in breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Along the way, you’ll pass through fragrant pine forests and rugged landscapes, making it a moderately challenging, but immensely rewarding hike. The panoramic views of the coast and the medieval village of Eze are unforgettable. 

hike monaco
Add a trip to Eze-sur-Mer to your list of things to do near Monaco, if only for the incredible views. Photo source: Wafi Usmd, Unsplash

Perhaps the most leisurely walk on this list, the Moyenne Corniche Trail is a great option for families and those looking to just get outside and enjoy some fresh air. The trail is mostly paved, making it suitable for hikers of all levels, and meanders along the heights of the Moyenne Corniche road to provide Instagram-worthy views on Monaco, the azure sea and forests of native trees and shrubs. Don’t forget your camera, as you’ll want to capture the scenes that unfold at every turn. 

The final walk on Part I of the guide is the Cap d’Ail coastal trail, which was apparently a favourite of the likes of Greta Garbo, Sacha Guitry and Winston Churchill. The Sentier du Littoral takes around an hour and a half to complete, but we recommend doing it in both directions and stopping for lunch on the beach at the beautiful Plage Mala below Cap d’Ail’s town centre. Magnificent villas perched on the edge of the water make for the perfect daydream inspiration, while the beauty of this pristine section of coast will have you making plans to come back next weekend.  

 

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Main photo credit: Jean Luc Paillé / Centre des Monuments Nationaux

15th years of supporting archaeology marked between Monaco and Mongolia

by: Cassandra Tanti
25/10/2023

In honour of the 15th anniversary of relations established between Monaco and Mongolia, the President of Mongolia, Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, on a state visit to France, personally presented the Friendship medal to Monaco’s Honorary Consul of Mongolia Elisabeth Gondeau and Jérôme Magail, Researcher at the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology of Monaco and head of the Monaco-Mongolia archaeological mission.

The ceremony took place on 13th October in Paris, in the presence of Ulambayar Nyamkhuu, Ambassador of Mongolia to France and Monaco.

15 years ago in 2008, during Prince Albert II’s official visit to Mongolia, an agreement was signed between the two countries, initiating the implementation of numerous projects led by the Cooperation Directorate International and the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology through the Joint Archaeological Mission.

Two major events marked these years of cooperation. The first was the inauguration in 2014 of a Research and Exhibition Centre in the Upper Tamir Valley, close to the archaeological excavation site of Tsatsyn Ereg, 500km from the capital Ulan Bator. Thanks to Monaco’s contribution, this building, equipped with an autonomous ecological system running on solar energy, welcomes Mongolian students every summer.

The second was the classification of the Upper Tamir Valley as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in September 2023, the study of which has been entrusted to a joint archaeological mission since 2008.

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Photo caption: Elisabeth Gondeau and Jérôme Magail in front of the portrait of Genghis Khan, first Mongolian emperor (12th century). Source: Government Communication Department

Grimaldi Forum to host invite-only Enrico Caruso tribute on Monaco’s National Day

by: Stephanie Horsman
25/10/2023
enrico caruso monaco

The Opéra de Monte-Carlo is pulling out all the stops for this year’s highly exclusive, invite-only National Day concert with a performance dedicated to arguably the most famous tenor singer of the early 20th century, Enrico Caruso. 

Every year, a special one-off concert concludes the celebrations of Monaco’s very own National Day on 19th November. This year, it will honour the legendary tenor, Enrico Caruso.  

Caruso was born in Napoli and came from a poor background. Despite this, his incomparable voice led him to the heights of stardom, where he graced the stages of such exalted venues as La Scala and the Metropolitan Opera in New York.  

Before Caruso was a household name, in 1902, the Opéra de Monte-Carlo’s then-director, the equally acclaimed Raoul Gunsbourg, invited him to perform La Bohème in the Principality. Caruso later went on to make his first legendary appearances in Paris with the Monegasque chorus.  

During the next few years, Caruso tread the boards singing many of his most celebrated roles in the Principality before he was lured away to New York. In 1915, when he was at the top of his game, his old friend Gunsbourg found the Opéra to be in financial straits due to World War I. Caruso took action and made the dangerous ocean crossing, fulfilling a promise made to his friend that he would one day return again to Monaco and helped inspire anew its cultural scene.  

As a tribute to Caruso, who was born 150 years ago this year, today’s Opéra has called on some of the greatest artists of our time, including conductor Sir Antonio Pappano and tenors Jonas Kaufmann and Davide Livermore, who will join forces to make this event a truly unforgettable evening. 

This Palace-initiated and invitation-only concert event will take place on 19th November at the Grimaldi Forum from 7pm. For more information, click here. 

 

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Photo credit: Palais Princier de Monaco