The 2024 edition of the Annales Monégasques, the historical journal of the Palace Archives, has been published. This latest issue continues the exploration of Prince Albert I’s multifaceted life and achievements, presenting the second part of the interdisciplinary colloquium titled The Careers of a Prince – Lives and Territories of Albert I of Monaco (1848-1922).
Within the section Scientific Life and Contributions, the journal delves into Prince Albert I’s enduring ties with the French Academy of Sciences during his 30-year oceanographic career. A particular highlight is an analysis of his collaboration with Portuguese naturalist Francisco Afonso Chaves, viewed through the lens of stereoscopic photography.
In Militancy and Exercises of Power, two articles explore the Prince’s relationship with France, portraying him as a “French” prince who fostered close connections with both the scientific and political circles of Paris and the provinces. His engagement extended to local officials and prefects of the Alpes-Maritimes, reinforcing his role as a bridge between Monaco and its neighbors. Domestically, the Prince grappled with the emerging civic representation movement during the Belle Époque. Initiatives such as the Syndicat d’initiative des intérêts généraux (1907-1909) laid the groundwork for the constitutional reform of 1911.
A significant portion of this issue focuses on Images and Representations of Power. From the beginning of his reign, Albert I emphasised Monaco’s traditions while staging his ascent to the throne to strengthen ties with his subjects. He faced intense caricature during his rule, especially regarding the contentious reputation of the casino. Yet, like his predecessors, Albert I cultivated an institutional image through commemorative coins and medals celebrating key events. His numismatic passion is evidenced by his 1910 acquisition of a collection of Greek coins featuring marine life.
The section Sports and Outdoor Life is particularly timely in this Olympic year, revisiting Monaco’s Olympic debut under Albert I. It was during his reign that Monaco joined the International Olympic Committee, with its athletes participating for the first time in the 1920 Games.
The bibliographic section highlights recent publications on Monaco’s history and the Grimaldi dynasty, ensuring this edition remains a vital resource for scholars and enthusiasts.
The 48th issue of the Annales Monégasques is available for €30. Subscriptions, priced at €25, include access to the full online archive dating back to 1977. Visit www.annales-monegasques.mc for more information.
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Photo taken from the front cover of the The 2024 Annales Monégasques, courtesy Palais Princier