Prince Albert II of Monaco and his sister, Princess Stéphanie, were amongst the first to board the virtual Deo Juvante II at the Musée Océanographique, which forms part of a wondrous new permanent exhibition on Prince Rainier III’s enduring relationship with the sea and his impactful efforts in marine conservation.
‘The Prince and the Mediterranean’ is the latest in a run of special commemorative exhibitions that have focused on the life and loves of the late Prince Rainer, but it is also set to become a permanent exhibit at the Musée Océanographique.
Housed within the recently revamped Monaco et l’Océan space on the first floor of the museum, it presents a unique journey through the Prince’s profound connection with the sea and his enduring legacy in marine conservation.
This immersive exhibition invites visitors on an extraordinary journey that explores the bond Prince Rainier shared with the world’s oceans. It was an appreciation that had been inspired by his great-grandfather, Prince Albert I, who had been an esteemed navigator and explorer.
Traversing the life and legacy of Prince Rainier III
Upon entering, guests embark upon a virtual representation of the Deo Juvante II, Prince Rainier’s famed vessel, and are guided by the voice of Princess Stéphanie, who attended the launch of the exhibition alongside her brother, Prince Albert.
The exhibition then unfolds in a series of spaces, each revealing different facets of the Prince’s life and his passion for the Mediterranean.
The first area, ‘The Man’, portrays Prince Rainier as a devoted father and passionate seafarer, echoing the influence of his great-grandfather. This is followed by ‘The Emotion’, which delves into the Prince’s love for the underwater world and the Mediterranean, together the fuel for his lifelong environmental commitments.
Next, ‘The Action’ highlights his role as a political figure initiating various ocean conservation projects and programmes, many of which remain relevant today. The final space, ‘The Legacy’, showcases the Sovereign’s efforts to pass on his commitments regarding ocean protection and preservation to the modern day.
The narrative journey is complemented by a mix of reconstructions of the Deo Juvante II alongside a collection of personal objects, historical audiovisuals, photographs and digital installations, including video mapping.
The exhibition was opened to the public as of 6th December.
Read related:
Prince Rainier III remembered this December with more dedications and special events
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All photo credits: Institut océanographique de Monaco – Cedou