Following its unveiling at a private mass at the Palais Princier de Monaco earlier this month, the unique Ó Learghusa chalice, a 15th-century vessel steeped in history, will make a one-night appearance in Monaco as part of the Princess Grace Irish Library’s 2025 cultural programme.

On Wednesday 22nd January, the Princess Grace Irish Library (PGIL) will host an exclusive viewing of the silver-gilt Ó Learghusa chalice alongside a lecture and presentation on its history, led by Dr. Małgorzata Krasnodębska D’Aughton, a Senior Lecturer at University College Cork who specialises in medieval Irish history.

Dr. Krasnodębska D’Aughton will provide historical context for the chalice, focusing on its origins and its journey from the Kilconnell Franciscan friary in County Galway. During the 17th century, liturgical objects from the friary were relocated to continental Europe for safekeeping, with most subsequently lost. The Ó Learghusa chalice, however, resurfaced in 2021 when it was sold at auction by Duke’s Auctioneers in Dorchester.

Research conducted since then by University College Cork and the National Museum of Ireland, which included advanced 3D imaging techniques, has revealed significant details about the artifact. These findings will be discussed during the lecture, which aims to shed light on the historical and cultural significance of the chalice.

The chalice was also the focus of a separate event in Monaco on Sunday 12th January, when it was used during a private mass held within the Chapelle Saint Jean-Baptiste of the Palais Princier. Prince Albert II and his elder sister, Princess Caroline of Hanover, both attended the ceremony, alongside PGIL Director Paula Farquharson.

The event at the PGIL will begin at 7pm and will be followed by a post-lecture reception at the library. Tickets are available here.

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Photo credit: Michael Alesi / Palais Princier de Monaco