PRINCE ALBERT II ENTHRONED AS MONACO'S SOVEREIGN   DAY FESTIVITIES SYMBOLICALLY MARK THE BEGINNING OF A NEW REIGN

Monte-Carlo, November 19, 2005



Coinciding with the Principality's National Day, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II was formally enthroned as Sovereign, surrounded by family members from Monaco and the United States, invited international dignitaries and His devoted people. Ceremonies marking the symbolic commencement of His new reign were broadcast to more than 70 countries and on a huge screen near the Princely Palace watched by hundreds of Monegasques, residents and visitors.

The National Day ceremonies were the culmination of a series of events which followed the death of Europe's longest serving monarch, Prince Rainier III on April 6. At the end of the three month mourning period, in an intimate July accession ceremony, Prince Albert was officially sworn in as Monaco's Head of State. His speech pledged that His reign would be characterized by ethical values and with a focus on international relations and continued good stewardship of the environment. On November 17, in a symbolic ceremony in the Throne Room, representatives of the Government and of the Sovereign House pledged allegiance to the Prince, marking the beginning of several days of celebrations and ceremonies.

On November 19, an emotional Mass in the 19th century Cathedral, conducted by the Archbishop of Monaco, Monsignor Bernard Barsi, was attended by more than 800 invited guests including H.R.H. the Princess of Hanover and H.S.H. Princess Stephanie and their families. Monsignor Barsi, who gave the official blessing to Prince Albert, said it was a day of joy in Monaco. "By rising to the Grimaldi throne, Prince Albert finds His place in the continuity of this dynasty and with the help of God, carries forward the destiny of the Principality dating more than seven centuries," he said.

Prince Albert - dressed for the first time in the Grand Uniform, the Head of State's official ceremonial military clothing - presided over Monaco's annual military review of troops, carabineers, police officers and firemen in an afternoon ceremony in the Palace grounds. His standard bearing two entwined "As" was presented to Him then handed to the Royal Guards, while His father's standard was officially retired and returned to the Palace.

The round of festivities continued with the Prince's attendance at a local soccer match between Monaco and Saint-Etienne (Monaco won!), followed by a gala evening which included a performance of Rossini's "Voyage to Reims" at the newly restored Monte-Carlo Opera House, and fireworks over the legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo.