The summer evenings in Monaco have once again been filled with music as the Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo (OPMC) brought its celebrated Concerts d’Été to the historic Cour d’Honneur of the Prince’s Palace. From 10th July to 7th August, five open-air performances transformed the palace square into one of the most atmospheric concert halls in the world, with each note resonating against the centuries-old walls under the Monaco night sky.
This year’s season — held on 10, 20, and 31 July, as well as 3 and 7 August — was captured in striking images by palace photographers Michaël Alesi and Frédéric Nebinger and shared on the Prince’s Palace social media, offering a visual encore for those who attended and a glimpse for those who missed it. The performances drew locals, visitors, and dignitaries alike, continuing a tradition that is as much a part of Monaco’s cultural identity as its opera house or ballet company.
The Concerts d’Été date back to 1959, when Prince Rainier III revived a centuries-old custom of the Grimaldi dynasty — hosting music in the palace courtyard for the enjoyment of the people. In doing so, he opened the gates of the Prince’s private residence to the public, creating a unique meeting point between sovereign and citizens. The venue itself, with its trapezoid-shaped courtyard, offers remarkable acoustics, eliminating echoes and lending a warm, rich sound to orchestral performances.
Over the decades, these concerts have become a highlight of the Principality’s summer cultural calendar, bringing world-class symphonic music to an unparalleled setting. This year’s edition was no exception, with the OPMC once again confirming its standing as one of Europe’s great orchestras — a reputation forged through decades of performances both at home and on international stages.
As the Palace notes, the success of the 2025 season owes much to the orchestra, the audience, and the many people behind the scenes who ensure the seamless running of these prestigious events. The OPMC will return to the Cour d’Honneur in 2026, promising another series of evenings where music, history, and the magic of Monaco meet under the stars.
Relive the highlights of the 2025 Concerts d’Été at the Prince’s Palace in images below.
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Main photo: Summer Concert, 7 August 2025 — Conducted by Emmanuel Tjeknavorian, featuring violinist Sergey Khachatryan. Photo credit: Michaël Alesi / Fréderic Nebinger / Prince’s Palace.