Monaco’s Grimaldi Forum rolled out the red carpet for a thousand guests on Thursday night to celebrate its silver anniversary in spectacular style. The evening held dual significance, marking 25 years of excellence and unveiling the Forum’s bold new extension, with Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene presiding over the momentous occasion.
The milestone event on 16th January attracted dignitaries, press, employees, and long-time supporters of the Grimaldi Forum, who gathered to witness a historic moment for the Principality.
“With this expansion, as well as the new Mareterra district and the renovated Larvotto beach area, the entire environment around the Grimaldi Forum is receiving a fresh new look,” said Prince Albert II in his speech. “This is our new asset to enhance the appeal of the Monaco Destination, and I am truly delighted about it!”
A monumental expansion for Monaco
The Grimaldi Forum’s extension, more than 10 years in the making, adds 6,000 square metres of modular indoor event space and 2,000 square metres of outdoor areas. Designed to harmonise with Monaco’s landscape including the new Mareterra district, there is minimal visual impact of the expansion. Highlights include the Parvis Émeraude forecourt, the Ravel and Indigo terraces, and the impressive Patio, which opens directly to the Mediterranean.
Inside, the Galerie Diaghilev acts as the centrepiece of the extension. This 1,300-square-metre space connects the new and old sections seamlessly, with glass windows allowing natural light to flood in.
The design incorporates natural materials such as light wood and polished stone, along with contemporary geometric lighting, blending sophistication with practicality.
For Sylvie Biancheri, General Director of the Grimaldi Forum, the inauguration represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of Monaco’s leading congress and cultural venue.
“For some of our larger professional clients, the original venue sometimes felt a little too small,” she told Monaco Life. “We even had to build temporary structures on the esplanade to meet their needs. Adding 6,000 square metres means we can now fully cater to their expectations without compromise. This expansion is a strategic milestone for us and it is truly a fantastic birthday gift.”
Significantly, it is also the design of the new extension which will be welcomed by clients of the Grimaldi Forum, said Biancheri. “It’s wonderful for our clients because when they choose Monaco and a venue like the Grimaldi Forum, they expect to enjoy the Mediterranean’s breathtaking views and environment. This expansion really enhances that experience.”
Adding to the festivities, CMB Bank, a long-time supporter of the Grimaldi Forum, renewed its financial sponsorship for an impressive 20th consecutive year. “For two decades, we have shared a common ambition: to participate in the influence of the Principality. For us, it is not an investment, it is a partnership. Culture is an essential pillar of the Monegasque community,” said CMB Managing Director Francesco Grosoli.
A night to remember
The evening began in the grand Salle des Princes, with a video reflecting on the Forum’s illustrious history. Archival footage of Prince Rainier III’s inauguration speech in 2000 added a poignant touch, reminding guests of the Grimaldi Forum’s enduring impact and the late Prince’s vision for his Principality.
Guests were treated to a world-class performance created with the support of Jean-Christophe Maillot, Choreographer Director of the Ballets de Monte-Carlo. The performance featured internationally renowned choreographic artists Olga Smirnova and Victor Caixeta, along with students from the Princess Grace Academy, under the direction of Luca Masala. The evening showcased Monaco’s deep commitment to culture and highlighted the Grimaldi Forum’s unique ability to blend artistry and business seamlessly within a single venue.
Following the performances, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene joined Father Jean-Ariel Bauza-Salinas for a combined blessing and official unveiling of the Forum’s remarkable new extension.
The party continued with an elegant cocktail dînatoire in the new Diaghilev Gallery, where guests explored the versatile new spaces designed to host everything from grand exhibitions to intimate business gatherings.
The night culminated with an electrifying Electro Winter Party, where more guests gathered in the Pinede Hall, with prominent DJs Bon Entendeur, Parallelle and Monaco’s own DJ Baloo, leaving attendees in awe of the venue’s potential.
A new chapter for business tourism
The expanded Grimaldi Forum now boasts 41,000 square metres of event space, with state-of-the-art facilities tailored to meet the needs of the world’s most demanding clients. Already, the venue has secured prestigious events for its additional spaces, including Milwaukee, the American tools and machinery company, which will be the first to utilise the new facilities for three weeks.
“From the Casino Square to Larvotto Beach, the entire area has been transformed,” said Sylvie Biancheri proudly. “We are confident this will make Monaco the most attractive location for business tourism in Europe.”
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Main photo: Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene officially inaugurate the Grimaldi Forum extension, alongside General Director Sylvie Biancheri (far right) and President Henri Fissore (far left). Source: Grimaldi Forum Monaco