Monaco’s 2025 Sainte Dévote celebrations brought the population together for two days of cultural and religious events commemorating the Principality’s patron saint. From the burning of the boat to moments of piety at important religious sites, the cherished custom honoured Monaco’s deep-rooted traditions while fostering a sense of unity and devotion among residents and visitors alike.
Over the weekend, Monaco Life joined the crowds gathered in Port Hercule to witness the first stages of the Principality’s annual commemorations of Sainte Dévote, a fourth-century Christian martyr from Corsica. According to legend, following her death, Sainte Dévote’s body was carried across the Mediterranean by a small wooden boat and washed up on the shores of Monaco. She is said to have been buried in the Vallon des Gaumates, near the church that bears her name to this day.
The events on Sunday 26th January began with the Messe des Traditions, delivered in Monegasque at the Église Sainte-Dévote. Later that day, in a ceremony facing the waters of Port Hercule, the symbolic relics of Sainte Dévote were presented to the clergy. A traditional procession then made its way from the port back to the church, where the Salut du Très-Saint Sacrement was held.
The customary burning of the boat—a treasured tradition in Monaco—took place on the Quai Albert Ier as night fell. Prince Albert II, Princess Charlene and their children, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, presided over the event alongside the Mayor of Monaco, Georges Marsan, and local councillors. Representatives from Monaco’s three twinned towns—Corsica’s Lucciana, Ostende in Belgium and Dolceacqua in Italy—also participated, showcasing the community spirit of the occasion.
The burning ceremony was accompanied by performances from Corsican singers and a local orchestra, while spectators watched from across the quartier, thanks to live broadcasts displayed on giant screens. Unfortunately, the planned drone show was cancelled due to strong winds.
The second day of celebrations on Monday 27th January began with a Pontifical Mass at the Cathédrale de Monaco, presided over by Monseigneur Paul-Richard Gallagher, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States. Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene attended the service, joining clergy and members of the community in honouring the patron saint.
Due to heavy rain, the procession of the relics, traditionally held in the Place du Palais following the mass, was relocated inside the cathedral. The morning concluded with a reception at the Mairie de Monaco, where officials and community members gathered to mark the occasion.
To see more photos of the various events organised in tribute to Sainte Dévote, click on the images below:
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Photos credit: Mairie de Monaco / Stéphane Danna / Monaco Communications Department