James Joyce’s modernist masterpiece Ulysses will once again echo through the streets of Monaco‑Ville as the Princess Grace Irish Library hosts its beloved annual Bloomsday celebration on Monday 16th June.
Beginning at 2pm, literary enthusiasts are invited to gather at the Princess Grace Irish Library, where the event will commence with dramatic readings from the balcony at 2.30pm. From there, actors from the Monaco‑Ireland Arts Society will lead participants through the old town, transforming Le Rocher into an open-air stage for Joyce’s words. The immersive experience concludes back at the library with refreshments and an opportunity to connect with fellow lovers of Irish literature.
Joyce’s words ring through monaco-ville
Bloomsday, named after Joyce’s protagonist Leopold Bloom, is celebrated globally on 16th June in homage to the events of Ulysses, which unfold over a single day in 1904. Monaco’s tribute is marked by a spirited promenade through the cobbled streets of Monaco‑Ville, with stops for readings at scenic corners and historic settings. Visitors are encouraged to join the tradition by wearing a hat and bringing water, as the afternoon sun and terrain may prove challenging for some.
From Paris to Monaco: celebrating Ulysses
Ulysses was famously published in 1922 by American expatriate Sylvia Beach in Paris, after Joyce struggled to find a publisher willing to handle his complex and controversial text. The Princess Grace Irish Library will use the day’s celebration not only to highlight Joyce’s brilliance, but also to share insights into the novel’s creation and lasting influence.
Founded in 1984 by Prince Rainier III in memory of Princess Grace, the Princess Grace Irish Library is a cornerstone of Monaco’s cultural life and a symbol of the enduring ties between Ireland and the Principality. Housing over 12,000 volumes and rare literary treasures, the library regularly hosts readings, exhibitions and lectures that explore Ireland’s rich literary heritage.
Planning your visit
The event is free and open to all, but attendees should note that the library will be closed during the walking portion of the celebration. The gathering begins at 2pm, with balcony readings starting promptly at 2.30pm. As the route winds through Monaco‑Ville, those with limited mobility may find the walk difficult. Participants are reminded to bring water, wear suitable shoes, and of course, a hat.
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