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Month: July 2025

Prince Albert II inaugurates exhibition revealing Monaco’s Napoleonic legacy

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
12/07/2025

Prince Albert II officially inaugurated the ‘Monaco and the Napoleons: Intertwined Destinies’ exhibition at the Grimaldi Forum on 10th July. The exhibition showcases the profound but little-known connections between the Principality and the two Napoleonic Empires. 

The opening ceremony was attended by exhibition ambassador Louis Ducruet, his wife Marie Ducruet, and descendants of Napoleon Bonaparte. Prince Albert II toured the displays, which span the entire 19th century and reveal how the fates of Grimaldi and Bonaparte dynasties became intertwined.

Prince Albert II and Louis Ducruet with curators and commissioners of the exhibition. Photo credit: Axel Bastello, Prince Palace of Monaco.

Historical connections revealed

The exhibition’s seven sections begin with the encounter in 1815 between Napoleon I and Prince Honoré V near Cannes during the Emperor’s return from Elba. This meeting, later recounted by Alexandre Dumas though disputed by the Prince himself, set the stage for a complex relationship that would shape Monaco’s destiny.

The exhibition reveals how the Grimaldi members became active participants in the Napoleonic era. Prince Honoré V served as an equerry to Empress Joséphine at Malmaison after her divorce from Napoleon, managing her stables and becoming deeply embedded in the imperial court’s daily life. His descendant, Prince Charles III, would later forge crucial ties with Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie during the Second Empire festivities.

The exhibition’s centrepiece is the story of the ‘Great Alliance’ of 1861, when Napoleon III’s treaty with Charles III transformed Monaco from a struggling principality into today’s well-known destination.

In exchange for ceding Menton and Roquebrune to France, Monaco received four million francs, recognition of its sovereignty, and the promise of railway access.

‘Monaco and the Napoleons: Intertwined Destinies’ exhibition. Photo credit: Monaco Life.

Rare artefacts on display

The personal dimension of these relationships emerges through artefacts from the private collection of David and Mikhail Iakobachvili, including Joséphine’s malachite cameo parure, Marshal Lannes’ campaign writing desk gifted by Napoleon I, and exquisite tabatières bearing imperial portraits. These objects reveal how the Grimaldi members served as both soldiers and courtiers in the Napoleonic world.

Louis Ducruet, reflecting on his role as exhibition ambassador, explained his fascination with these historical connections: “Under Napoleon I, Monaco, annexed by France in 1793, disappeared from the map of Europe. Under Napoleon III, the Principality, which had regained its sovereignty after the fall of the First Empire, underwent an astonishing metamorphosis that ensures its continuity even today.”

‘Monaco and the Napoleons: Intertwined Destinies’ exhibition. Photo credit: Monaco Life.

The exhibition’s final section demonstrates how Monaco’s cultural renaissance under Albert I was influenced by the Second Empire. The Monte Carlo Opera House, designed by Charles Garnier—architect of Napoleon III’s Paris Opera—became a “little Paris”. It carried on the tradition of supporting the arts, even after the Second Empire had fallen.

Curated by Pierre Branda of the Napoleon Foundation alongside Thomas Fouilleron and Thomas Blanchy from the Prince’s Palace Archives, the exhibition presents nearly 200 works.

Running until 31st of August, it offers visitors the opportunity to explore this hidden chapter of European history

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Main photo by Monaco Life.

Carrefour recalls pesticide-tainted melons sold across France

by: Cassandra Tanti
11/07/2025

A major food recall has been issued for melons sold in Carrefour stores across France after tests revealed excessive levels of pesticides in the fruit, prompting health warnings and a recommendation not to consume the product.

Shoppers who purchased melons from the Carrefour-owned brand ‘Reflets de France’ between the 21st June and 8th July are being advised to dispose of the fruit immediately. The nationwide recall applies to loose melons of Provençal origin sold in all Carrefour outlets throughout France. According to the French consumer alert platform Rappel Conso, the affected produce contains excessive levels of fluazifop, a herbicide that poses potential health risks.

Health risk from herbicide contamination

The Ministry of Agriculture confirmed that the contamination exceeds the legally permitted maximum residue limits (MRLs) for pesticides in food. Fluazifop, the active compound detected in the melons, is known to cause skin and eye irritation, and has been classified as a possible skin sensitiser. Consumers are therefore urged not to eat the fruit, with authorities warning that the contamination could trigger adverse health effects, particularly for vulnerable individuals.

Nationwide distribution and refund procedure

The recalled melons were sold loose, making it difficult for consumers to identify them via standard batch or GTIN codes. Instead, the recall applies specifically to melons from the ‘Reflets de France’ range sold between the specified dates. Customers are being advised to discard the fruit and contact Carrefour’s consumer services at 0 805 90 80 70 to request a refund. The recall is set to remain active until 26th July.

Previous food recalls add to safety concerns

This incident follows a series of recent food recalls in France, including pistachios from Auchan and sausages from various supermarket chains due to the presence of metal shavings. The frequency of such alerts is drawing increasing public scrutiny over food safety controls in major retail groups.

Heightened vigilance for summer produce

The recall is particularly concerning given the popularity of melon as a summer staple in French households. The authorities are reinforcing their message for consumers to remain vigilant about food safety, especially when purchasing fresh produce during the peak season.

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Photo credit: Skyler Ewing, Unsplash

Monaco Pride celebrates fourth edition at Marius

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
11/07/2025

The fourth edition of Monaco Pride drew nearly 200 representatives from government, business, associations and the LGBTI community to Marius on Thursday evening. 

Monaco Pride was created in 2021, according to co-founder Lorenzo Turco, to recognise the contribution of the LGBTI community to Monaco, and encourage discussion about the imbalance of civil and social security rights for thousands of LGBTI community members.

According to the European Union’s annual Rainbow Map, Monaco ranks 43rd out of 49 countries for overall rights and treatment of the LGBTI community. A significant concern is the principality’s failure to recognise same-sex marriages legally contracted in other countries.

Partners in same-sex marriages currently cannot access government family allocations, spousal retirement benefits, or adoption rights in Monaco.

“The LGBTI community must not remain invisible for fear of problems at work, from parents or at church,” said co-founder Annette Anderson. She quoted former US President Barack Obama: “Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”

New association gains momentum

The evening also featured the work of Mon’arc en ciel, a one-year-old LGBTI association that has already recruited approximately 80 members. The association is actively engaging with Monégasque authorities, including meetings with the National Council, government officials, and lawyers to advance LGBTI rights. “We have a lawyer following us already,” Salvanhac confirmed Monaco Life.

Salvanahc acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating: “We know the path will be long, but we’re trying to make things change. At least we want Monaco to understand that even if laws can’t change immediately, our families and personal situations exist, and they can’t close their eyes to this situation, because it impacts our partners, our families, our children.”

The association aims to change laws while recognising the complexity of the task. “These are people who don’t really accept our sexual orientation, but we have as much right as others to exist,” Salvanhac explained.

Barclays Bank of Monaco also demonstrated its commitment to the cause, with Chief Operating Officer Gaelle Migani and Relationship Manager Ben Hood noting the bank’s dedication to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive culture.

To commemorate the event, Barclays illuminated the front of its building on Avenue de la Costa in LGBTI colours.

Hervé Aeschbach, Director of Fight Aids Association for over 20 years, expressed delight at the large turnout and declared it was time to “make some noise” to gain equality.

The event was accompanied by live performances by Fat Cat Hacket and the Diva Darlings, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration alongside serious advocacy.

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Main photo credit: Frédéric Nebinger

 

Luminara arrives in Monaco, redefining luxury yachting with Ritz-Carlton style

by: Cassandra Tanti
11/07/2025

Monte Carlo shimmered a little brighter on Thursday 3rd July as The Ritz‑Carlton’s newest superyacht, Luminara, dropped anchor in Port Hercule for an exclusive inauguration soirée. With Prince Albert II stepping aboard, flutes of champagne flowing, and live music drifting over the Principality, the 794‑foot floating palace unveiled itself in true Monegasque style.

Fresh from its Spanish christening and star-studded voyage between Rome and Malta, Luminara cruised into Monaco with serious swagger. Just days before, Kendall Jenner, Naomi Campbell, Orlando Bloom, Sofia Vergara and even Martha Stewart — shaking up her signature “Martha‑ritas”— were spotted enjoying sundowners on the teak decks. Music came courtesy of Sting, Ellie Goulding and Janelle Monáe, while Tom Brady showed off his sea legs in style.

Decked out like no other

Built like a five-star hotel and styled like a superyacht, Luminara boasts 224 sea-view suites with private terraces, two palatial upper decks that clock in at nearly 100m², and a jaw-dropping guest-to-crew ratio. 

Five restaurants, six bars, a wine vault and a private marina are just the start — there’s even a floating lounge platform for sipping rosé just inches above the Med.

Beach house pool on Luminara

Inside the design of Luminara: where sea meets gallery

Luminara’s striking form is no accident. Designed by the Finnish studio Aivan, its curvaceous silhouette takes cues from elegant private motor yachts, while the interiors were masterfully composed by London’s AD Associates and Canada’s Chapi Chapo Design. Lighting throughout the vessel was created by DPA of the UK, delivering a refined ambience both day and night.

The aesthetic is unapologetically luxurious yet tranquil, drawing directly from its maritime setting. Soft hues of ocean blue and stone grey are paired with walnut wood finishes, bronze touches, and shimmering Arabescato Corchia marble. Reflective surfaces and curved architectural elements guide the eye and echo the movement of the sea, creating what Ritz‑Carlton calls a “residential calm” across each of the 224 sea-view suites.

The sushi bar onboard Luminara

Luminara is also a floating art gallery. Over 700 works adorn the walls, with more than half created exclusively for the yacht.

Among them are pieces by Miro, Klee, Calder, Hockney, and Warhol. Public spaces and suites alike are outfitted with furniture by luxury brands such as Minotti, Giorgetti and Poltrona Frau, reinforcing the vessel’s seamless blend of hotel-level comfort and bespoke yacht flair.

Ritz‑Carlton’s bold push into the open sea

Luminara is the third vessel in The Ritz‑Carlton Yacht Collection’s growing fleet, following the launches of Evrima in 2022 and Ilma in 2024. With each new yacht, the brand is redefining ultra-luxury cruising for the hotel loyalist. But it’s not just about aesthetics and service — it’s about geography too.

This year, Luminara will sail across the Mediterranean before exploring the Adriatic and Greek Isles, eventually heading to the Canary Islands. In 2026, the yacht will make a major leap into the Asia‑Pacific region, then on to Alaska and Canada — destinations rarely associated with five-star, boutique cruising.

The whirlpool deck onboard Luminara

As the competition heats up, with rivals like Four Seasons, Explora Journeys and Aman also debuting floating luxury residences, The Ritz‑Carlton’s maritime expansion is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious hospitality evolutions in recent memory. With Luminara, it is clear the brand is no longer just dipping its toes in the water — it is making waves.

Monaco Life was there! See more in Cassandra Tanti’s video reel below…

 

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A post shared by Cassandra Tanti (@cassandratanti)

See also:

On board ‘Ilma’: The Ritz-Carlton launches luxurious maiden voyage from Monaco

Main photo credit: Cassandra Tanti, Monaco Life 

 

Fontvieille waste-to-energy system to be modernised with new recovery unit

by: Cassandra Tanti
10/07/2025

Monaco has confirmed plans to build a new Energy Recovery Unit in Fontvieille, replacing its ageing incineration facility and reaffirming its long-standing commitment to managing waste locally. The move, driven by legal, environmental, and strategic concerns, ensures the Principality maintains control over a critical part of its public services.

The decision follows a legal assessment commissioned by the government, which concluded that exporting all of Monaco’s waste to another country – such as France or Italy – could carry serious legal risks. According to the analysis, European and international regulations make full externalisation a fragile option.

“The government has decided to preserve a minimum waste treatment capacity in Monaco in order to guarantee the country’s autonomy,” officials said. “Outsourcing this mission entirely would neither be legally secure nor responsible in terms of public service and sovereignty.”

The proposed energy recovery facility will be built on the current Fontvieille site after the existing plant is demolished. Authorities say it will not only handle Monaco’s waste but also convert it into energy – producing heat, cold, and electricity for the local area. It will include a system for processing wastewater sludge.

Modernising Fontvieille’s unique energy system

Fontvieille is home to an unusual and highly efficient energy model: 95% of its heating, 30% of its cooling, and part of its electricity come from waste-to-energy conversion. Officials say scrapping that capability would undermine a system developed over decades.

By investing in the new Energy Recovery Unit, Monaco aims to upgrade that model, securing both energy independence and long-term climate goals.

The project replaces two alternative strategies that were ultimately set aside. One was the idea of full waste export, deemed too uncertain; the other, known as the ‘Symbiose’ project, failed to meet technical and operational requirements. After reviewing both, the government opted for what it describes as “a concrete and sustainable solution”.

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Photo source: Government Communications Department 

Florist Marco Traverso celebrates four decades of artistry

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
10/07/2025

Monaco’s renowned florist Marco Traverso celebrated his four decade career and enduring partnership with Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse on Wednesday in an intimate gathering at Louis XV in the Hôtel de Paris.

The Italian-French artisan has earned the title ‘jeweller of flowers’ for his meticulous craft. Speaking to Monaco life, he reflected on his journey from the old Monte-Carlo market to becoming one of the principality’s most sought-after floral artists. “What is most important to me is making my clients happy,” he said.

A partnership built on excellence

The collaboration between Traverso and Ducasse began in 1982 when the florist approached the chef with admiration regarding his approach to gastronomy. What initially started as a trial arrangement for the central bouquet at Louis XV led to a four-decade partnership.

“I learned so much working with him,” Traverso explained. “I think he’s one of the best chefs in the world.”

Ducasse, who wasn’t present during the event, had previously spoken warmly of their partnership, praising the florist’s ability to “express their particular sensitivity while adapting perfectly to the context in which they work”.

The chef also compared their crafts, noting that both require passion, hard work, and an understanding that they are “artisans of the ephemeral”.

Marco Traverso at Louis XV restaurant in Hôtel de Paris, photo by Monaco Life.

The art of floral mastery

According to Traverso, his approach goes beyond tradition arrangements. Working from his atelier like a jeweller with precious stones, he selects, respects, and transforms flowers into unique works of art. His creations have graced some of Monaco’s most prestigious events, from the iconic bouquet in the Hôtel de Paris hall to the centrepieces for the Red Cross Gala.

When asked about future plans, Traverso remains focused on his core philosophy: client satisfaction above all else. “It doesn’t matter about the money or what I earn. It’s about seeing the clients happy. This is my approach.”

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Main photo by Monaco Life.