In line with Monaco’s National Day celebrations earlier this week, more than 1,200 medals recognising exceptional service and contributions to the Principality over the past year have been awarded to individuals working in sectors such as the civil service, healthcare, law enforcement, and the arts.
In the days leading up to and following Monaco’s National Day on Tuesday 19th November, some 1,230 medals and special distinctions were handed out to Monaco citizens for their service and achievements over the last 12 months.
Some recipients are more well-known, such as Charlotte Casiraghi, the daughter of Princess Caroline of Hanover, who was elevated to the rank of Chevalier in the Order of Cultural Merit for her role as President of the Rencontres Philosophiques de Monaco, and Robert Calcagno, the Director General of the Oceanographic Institute, who was honoured with the National Order of Agricultural Merit. Others are more behind-the-scenes, such as the many Centre Hospitalier Princesse Grace employees and law enforcement officials who were rewarded for their efforts with a medal or special honour.
A system of recognition
Monaco’s honours system is designed to reward acts of courage, professional dedication, and significant contributions to the state and its people. The decorations, which include both civil and military awards, have a rich history, reflecting the Principality’s values and its recognition of exemplary service.
Among the most prominent orders is the Order of Saint-Charles, established in 1858 by Prince Charles III. This honour is granted to individuals—both civilians and military personnel—who have rendered significant services to the state or the Prince. Another is the Order of Grimaldi, introduced in 1954, which similarly acknowledges exceptional merit and service.
Other decorations include the Medal of Honour, first established in 1894. This award, one of the oldest in Monaco’s system, is presented to those who demonstrate dedication or perform exceptional acts of service. The Medal for Physical and Sporting Education, created in 1939, rewards remarkable contributions to sports and physical education in the Principality, whether through performance or teaching. There is also a Medal of National Merit for Blood Donation, introduced in 1993, which recognises the efforts of individuals who have contributed significantly to blood donation campaigns. 45 individuals were honoured with this medal in 2024, including Benoîte Rousseau de Sevelinges, the Director of the Centre Hospitalier Princesse Grace.
The full list of 2024 recipients is available here.
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Main photo: Charlotte Casiraghi is pictured to the right of Prince Albert II of Monaco and surrounded by members of her family during the medal ceremony. Photo credit: Michael Alesi / Palais Princier de Monaco