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The story behind the new exhibition that explores the unique relationship between Prince Albert I and King Carlos I

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
26/11/2025

An exhibition honouring Prince Albert I and King Carlos I has opened to mark the first official visit by a Portuguese president to Monaco. 

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa arrived on November 21st for the historic state visit, during which he and Prince Albert II viewed the exhibition at the Saint-Martin Gardens.

The display, titled ‘Sovereign Oceanographers: Albert I, Prince of Monaco and Carlos I, King of Portugal”, chronicles the friendship between the two rulers who shared a passion for marine science.

Prince Albert I was a pioneer of modern oceanography. During his travels, he forged a close bond with King Carlos I, inspiring the monarch’s scientific work and exchanging frequent correspondence.

The exhibition, photo by Monaco Life.

A friendship forged at sea

The two first met in 1879 when Prince Abert I stopped in Lisbon aboard his yacht Hirondelle. The then 16-year-old Carlos sketched the vessel in pencil during the visit.

But their friendship became stronger when both ascended their thrones in 1889, only a month apart. By 1894, when Prince Albert and his second wife Princess Alice visited Lisbon, the bond extended to their spouses as well, since King Carlos had married Marie-Amélie of Orléans in 1886.

The exhibition reveals how Prince Albert encouraged Kind Carlos’s oceanographic work. King Carlos studied Portuguese coastal waters during campaigns between 1896 and 1900 using successive yachts, all named after his wife.

Both rulers also published their scientific findings and created exhibitions of their discoveries. Prince Albert established a modest pavilion at the 1889 Paris Universal Exhibition, while King Carlos displayed his collections at Lisbon’s Polytechnic School in 1897.

Their correspondence, counting around 100 letters over more than a decade, focused on oceanographic techniques and discoveries.

Tragedy and legacy

However, the friendship was cut short by King Carlos’s assassination in Lisbon on February 1st 1908. The King and his eldest son, Crown Prince Luís Filipe, were both killed in the attack. In a letter to Queen Amélie, Prince Albert wrote of “the agony that grips me when I think of the tearing of your heart as a mother.”

The tragedy depicted in the exhibition, photo by Monaco Life.

At the 1910 inauguration of the Oceanographic Museum, Prince Albert paid tribute to his fallen friend. Meanwhile, the museum’s façade bears the name ‘Amelia’ in honour of King Carlos’s research vessels.

Prince Albert also made a pilgrimage to Lisbon in 1920, where he spoke at length about King Carlos, describing him as “my student, for it was I who led him to do oceanography on the coasts of Portugal”.

The exhibition, which runs until February 26th, builds upon a show at Lisbon’s Maritime Museum in 2022 that marked the centenary of Prince Albert I’s death.

Now, with the first official visit of Portugal’s president, a bust of King Carlos I was installed in the Saint Martin Gardens opposite a stele dedicated to Prince Albert I, which was unveiled in 1998.

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Main photo by Monaco Life.

Princely family celebrates National Day with adoring crowds

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
19/11/2025

Monaco marked its National Day on Wednesday with a rich display of heritage, dignity, and national pride. From solemn religious observance to the precision of military ceremony, the celebrations reflected the Principality’s enduring traditions and close ties between the Sovereign and his people.

The day began solemnly at 9:30am with a Te Deum at Monaco Cathedral, where Prince Albert and Princess Charlene were joined by Princess Caroline and Princess Stéphanie. Archbishop Dominique-Marie David led the thanksgiving mass, accompanied by the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra and Monaco Cathedral Choir.

Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella at Monaco’s National Day, photo credit: Michaël Alesi / Palais princier

By 11am, attention shifted to the Palace’s Cour d’Honneur, where Prince Albert presided over military ceremonies honouring Monaco’s four uniformed units.

The Prince personally awarded rank insignia to 31 promoted members of the Force Publique and presented the Order of Saint-Charles to three servicemen, along with medals of honour to 16 Palace staff.

The Princely Family enjoying a demonstration by the Carabiniers, photo by Monaco Life.

This year’s celebrations also marked 150 years of Monaco’s diplomatic representation in Italy, with 33 musicians from the 3rd Carabinieri Regiment of Lombardy joining the Prince’s Carabiniers Orchestra in a specially adapted musical programme.

But the day’s most anticipated moment arrived at the Palace Square, where crowds had gathered in eager anticipation. When Prince Albert, Princess Charlene, and twins Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella finally appeared at the Palace window, cheers erupted across the historic square. Princess Stéphanie and her children Louis Ducruet and Camille Gottlieb also appeared at a separate window, adding to the joyous scene.

The crowd gathered outside the Palace, awaiting for the Princely Family, photo by Monaco Life.

“I would do anything to be here, even if it was raining, I would have come,” one Monegasque resident told Monaco Life. She couldn’t single out a favourite moment: “I loved everything from start to finish, everything was amazing.”

Another local reflected on what the day represents: “The National Day is always a great joy, there is always so much prestige, but it’s also a reflection of a prosperous Principality and a Prince who is close to the population.” The appearance of the Princely Family, she added, remained the emotional highlight: “That is something that always brings joy.”

The day proved once more that Monaco’s National Day continues to be one of the Principality’s most beloved annual celebrations, drawing not only residents but visitors alike to honour Monaco, it’s heritage, the Sovereign Prince, and the entire Grimaldi family.

See more in our video reel below…

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Main photo credit: Michaël Alesi / Palais princier

Indigenous leaders launch global ethics code in Monaco

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
05/11/2025

Monaco hosted the first Summit of Ancestral Wisdom on October 3oth, where Indigenous leaders and international institutions launched a new ethical framework aimed at reshaping environmental education and governance. 

The events, which took place at the Méridien Beach Plaza Hotel, marked the official unveiling of the Ethical Code of Respect 360°, created by Brazilian filmmaker Isabella Vieira. The summit opened with a Sacred Fire Ceremony attended by Indigenous leaders.

Wanka Inti, Grand Spiritual Counsellor of the Andes, and Witxo Fulni-ô, representing five Brazilian Indigenous peoples, participated in person. Leaders from Mexico and the Brazilian Amazon joined remotely.

During the fire ceremony, photo by: NAWA SIA AMAZONIA ALLIANCE

In a major development, the University of Cambridge will incorporate the Ethical Code into its academic programs, with other international universities set to follow.

Cindy Forde, a Cambridge collaborator, argued that the move addresses shortcomings in how future leaders are prepared. After 30 years of climate conferences with inadequate outcomes, she said a different approach is needed.

“We can no longer be content with training elites who know how to decide. We must train leaders who know how to respect,” she said.

She explained that the Ethical Code should be taught throughout education systems, from primary schools to universities.

Amazon university plans

Plans were also unveiled for a University of the Forest in the Amazon, developed jointly with Chief Ninawa Inu Huni Kui. The institution will focus on Indigenous wisdom and protecting the natural world.

Isabella Vieira, who heads the Monaco-based NA WA SIA Amazonia Alliance, will lead the initiative.

She reframed the environmental emergency as a completely human problem. “It is not the planet that is in crisis — it is humanity,” she said. “The Earth always shows us the path to regeneration. The real question is: will we know how to become once again a people of the Earth?

Wanka Inti, who took part in the opening ceremony, offered: “When we walk with our ancestors, we are never alone.”

Wanka Inti during the opening ceremony, photo credit: NAWA SIA AMAZONIA ALLIANCE

Official backing

Fabrice Notari, President of the Commission for External Relations of the National Council of Monaco, attended the summit, demonstrating official support from the Principality.

The Kate Powers Foundation also backed the initiative through representative Karen Bond.

She connected the work to Powers’ legacy: “Kate Powers dedicated her life to bringing people together around consciousness, kindness, and respect for all living beings. What opened today in Monaco continuous that path — one where heart, truth, and commitment become forces of transformation.”

The Ethical Code is designed to serve as a framework for institutions, educational systems, and a guide for those making economic and political decisions. Its architects say it will bridge modern governance with Indigenous knowledge systems that have safeguarded ecosystems across generations.

Witxo Fulni-ô expressed confidence in Vieira’s leadership: “We represent the union of five peoples of Brazil, and she carries our voice where we cannot be heard.”

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More photos of the event can be found in the photo gallery below… (all photos credit: NAWA SIA AMAZONIA ALLIANCE)

Monaco’s stamp museum unveils architectural journey through miniature art

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
09/10/2025

Monaco’s Museum of Stamps and Coins is presenting a unique perspective on the Principality’s architectural heritage through a new exhibition running until December 31st. 

‘Architecture in Philately: A History in Miniature’ features 120 rare and exceptional philatelic pieces that follow Monaco’s architectural evolution from historic landmarks to contemporary developments.

“I arrived in February as the new head of the museum with the main mission of revitalising this place, which had been somewhat forgotten,” Flavie Bonnin-Novaretti, head of the Museum of Stamps and Coins, told Monaco Life.

The exhibition, which opened on October 4th, was timed to coincide with European Heritage Day on October 5th.

The stamps provide a visual timeline of Monaco’s changing landscape. The oldest piece in the collection dates from 1939 and shows Port Hercule and the Rock extending to Spélugues. This is contrasted with a 2023 block depicting the extensive urban development that has since transformed the area.

“Architecture is a theme that has been enormously covered in philatelic issues,” said Bonnin-Novaretti. “The idea is that we can trace neighbourhoods or the evolution of buildings through time.”

The exhibition tracks the transformation of entire districts, including Larvotto from its 1966 appearance through to Renzo Piano’s recent redesign and the inauguration of the Marettera extension.

One of the stamp collections, photo by Monaco Life.

Tracking evolution

Additionally, one highlight is a series of stamps showing the evolution of the Prince’s Palace, featuring lesser-known architectural details. The collection spans from depictions of the Rock in the 17th century through to the most recent stamp issued, which shows modifications made before 2015. The series includes the Serravalle Bastion, the Clock Tower, the Odeon Tower, and the All Saints Tower.

“It allows people to gain cultural knowledge in a slightly different way, while admiring the beauty of stamps, which are truly works of art.” explained Bonnin-Novaretti.

The exhibition also demonstrates the artistic process behind stamp creation, particularly those produced using the intaglio printing technique, which requires a definer, an engraver, and a specific printing method recognised as an artistic discipline.

Machine used for stamp printing, photo by Monaco Life.

The display includes cultural monuments on one side and religious buildings on the other side, with particular attention give to Fontvieille’s development, from the initial sea expansion and land reclamation through to the construction of the district’s iconic buildings.

The Museum of Stamps and Coins is located at the Terrasses de Fontvieille and is open Monday to Sunday from 9:30am to 5pm.

See more in Kyriaki Topalidou’s video below…

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Main photo credit: Kyriaki Topalidou, Monaco Life

 

Monaco’s Justice Secretary: “We need to come out of the shadows”

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
05/10/2025

When Samuel Vuelta Simon arrived in Monaco as Secretary of State for Justice just over a year ago, he made a shocking discovery: the Principality’s Wikipedia page didn’t even mention its justice system. 

“I thought, this isn’t possible,” he told the press, including Monaco Life, during a meeting on October 2nd. “How can people not know about a justice system that works well, works quickly, and is independent?”

That moment shaped his mission to modernise Monaco’s court while helping understand how justice actually works.

“Justice must be accountable to the community that employs it,” Vuelta Simon said. “It’s not some shadow arm of the state. It needs to explain what it does for people every day.”

It’s an ambitious goal for a small operation. Monaco’s entire justice administration runs on 30 people, with about 10 senior officials managing everything from courtrooms to international treaties.

Addressing independence questions

One of the first things Vuelta Simon confronted were the claims that Monaco’s judiciary lacks independence. Critics site article 88 of the Constitution, which states judicial power “belongs to the Prince”. But he argues that they are reading selectively.

“The following articles make clear that power is fully delegated to the courts,” he explained. “In a year here, I’ve never given a single instruction in an individual case.”

His role is administrative, which means ensuring judges can work independently, not directing their decisions. The only area where he can intervene is speed. “I can ask where they are on a case, whether they can move faster. People deserve prompt justice. But the substance of cases isn’t my call.”

Vuelta Simon during the press conference, photo credit: Manuel Vitali, Direction de la Communication 

Recruiting Monegasque judges

For years, young Monegasques have shown little to no interest in becoming judges. Last year, Monaco cancelled a magistrate recruitment competition when candidates withdrew.

This year brought a breakthrough though – 11 people enrolled in preparation courses, five registered for the magistracy exam, and three applied exclusively for judge positions. “This has never happened,” Vuelta explained.

His aim is for at least half of Monaco’s magistrates to be national. Currently, most are French.

The Monegasque Institute for Judicial Training, in an attempt to make justice more accessible, offered 700 training places this year, up from 340 three years ago. New programmes now serve government workers and students, not just legal professionals.

Monaco has also launched its first journal in June and began a book series on Monegasque law. These initiative address practical gaps like bailiff’s fees that hadn’t been updated in 25 years, while notaries operate under 1886 regulations.

“When we forget to update these texts, our justice system eventually grinds to a halt,” Vuelta Simon said.

International standing

Next year, Monaco will chair the Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers from May to November 2026, an opportunity that won’t recur for over two decades.

“It’s a chance to show what we do here and prove we’re at the level of major states,” Vuelta Simon said. Monaco is also negotiating judicial cooperation treaties with China, Panama, and Brazil.

“We’re a small team achieving important things quickly with limited resources,” he said, wrapping up the conference. Whether updating Wikipedia, training judges, or exiting grey lists, his main objective remains consistent, and that is bringing Monaco’s justice system into clearer view.

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Main photo of Vuelta Simon credit: Manuel Vitali, Direction de la Communication

International Underwater Photography teams take to Monaco waters

by: Kyriaki Topalidou
05/09/2025

Eleven countries took part in Monaco’s 2nd International Challenge on Friday morning, kicking off three days of underwater photography competitions organised by the Monaco Underwater Exploration Club (CESMM).

Teams from Germany, Belgium, Spain, France, Italy, Lebanon, Luxembourg, Monaco, Netherlands, Portugal, and Tunisia gathered at 8:30am for briefings before taking to the water at 9:00am for the day dives.

The competition runs alongside the 20th National Contest and Junior Contest conclusion, making this weekend Monaco’s biggest underwater photography event of the year under the high patronage of Prince Albert II.

During the morning’s dives teams were able to encounter and photograph colourful Mediterranean fish, nudibranchs, and juvenile species in the Principality’s protected waters.

The photographs are set to be revealed on Sunday during the awards ceremony.

Portuguese team opens up about their first dive

Ana Ferro, representing Portugal alongside dive partner Vanda Gonçalves, described the welcoming contrast of Monaco’s waters with their home conditions.

“In Portugal, the water is much colder. So it’s very nice to be in warmer water,” Ferro told Monaco Life. The team observed various species including colourful fish, what Ferro described as “beauty branch” sea slugs, and small blue fish during their dive.

For Ferro, underwater photography offers more than competition. “It’s very relaxing. You forget about your daily life, your daily stress, your daily problems,” she explained, while Gonçalves described diving as her preferred “anti-depressive”.

When asked about her photographs from the morning dive, Ferro remained cautiously optimistic: “Let’s hope. I think they’re good, and I believe one or two are really good.”

Ana Ferro alongside dive partner Vanda Gonçalves, photo by Monaco Life.

The photographers use professional equipment with interchangeable settings for macro and wide-angle photography, plus external flashes triggered by the camera’s internal system. Competition rules require photographers to present sealed cameras to judges before opening them to ensure fairness.

World-first night challenge tonight

While Friday focused on standard day diving, the evening introduces underwater night photography to international competition for the first time. Teams will gather again at 8:30pm for briefings before taking once more to the water for their night dive.

“For our 2nd International Challenge, we wanted to innovate with a world-first: underwater night photography. Shooting conditions are much more challenging at night, especially with lighting, and the marine life encountered is entirely different,” said Roger Mullot, CESMM President.

Photographers must capture images across four categories: macro photography, fish portraits, wide-angle shots, and an imposed theme across three total dives.

The divers relaxing after their morning dive, photo by Monaco Life.

Weekend programme

Saturday will feature the 20th National Contest, bringing together 13 teams to compete in CESMM’S flagship annual event for the perfect shot.

The competition concludes on Sunday with the awards ceremony starting at 10:00am in the Oceanographic Museum’s Conference Hall.

The weekend reinforces the club’s motto “To know better is to protect better”, using photography to raise awareness of marine environment protection.

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Main photo by Monaco Life.