Hello Monaco #20 — Spring 2024

Jean-Christophe Maillot

Zhang Zhang

Jessica Sbaraglia

ROLEX MONTE-CARLO MASTERS

Smashing Records And Expectations

WHO IS WHO

Monaco’s Grand Prix And The F1 Drivers Who Live Here

Olga Taran , Founder, Editor-in-Chief of HelloMonaco

Spring has sprung! The French Riviera is coming to life with lots of exciting events in store for us.

Soon Monaco will be flooded with fans eager to see the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters opening the European tennis season. The Top-10 ATP ranked players are expected, led by Novak Djokovic (No. 1). With his near-perfect 2023, he is a three Grand Slam holder this year. Carlos Alcaraz (No. 2), the 2024 Australian Open winner Jannik Sinner (No. 3), Daniil Medvedev (No. 4), the 2023 Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters winner Andrey Rublev (No. 5), Alexander Zverev (No. 6), the 2023 Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters finalist Holger Rune (No. 7), Hubert Hurkacz (No. 8), Kasper Ruud (No. 9) and Alex de Minaur (No. 10) — they are all competing for the champion’s title! Not to forget the two-time Monte-Carlo

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

Rolex Masters winner, Stefanos Tsitsipas (No. 11). All these tennis celebrities will be meeting in Monaco! Rafael Nadal, the Monte-Carlo tournament’s eleven time winner, is also expected to make his grand return. Our spring edition therefore has a special section for you: fun facts from the history of one of this world’s oldest tennis tournaments.

Once the Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters is over, the Principality will be deafened by a triple engine roar. This year Monaco is hosting the Historic Grand Prix, Formula-E and the Formula-1 Grand Prix. Read more about the famous racing drivers currently living in Monaco.

Our magazine traditionally covers the Principality’s history. This time you will learn more about the revival of the Monegasque language and the saddest Christmas in the life of Honoré Grimaldi, the first Prince of Monaco.

Our WOW column three special guests have one thing in common: courage to remain their own-selves despite stereotypes and expectations. The Monte-Carlo Ballets’ Director, JeanChristophe Maillot, has an amazing talent of reuniting classical dance and modern choreography. The world-famous violinist, Zhang Zhang, let her difficult childhood in communist China shape her into a person who is not afraid to defend her own opinion. Jessica Sbaraglia came to Monaco with the intention of opening her own design studio, but eventually realized that nothing brings her more happiness than working on the land.

Embark on an exciting Bond style journey with “From Monaco with Love” and Tom Claeren’s photo shoot. The unique charm of the Principality and its chic glamour is newly interpreted by our own version of agent 007.

Enjoy your reading!

Sincerely yours,

Olga Taran

© Hello Monaco

HelloMonaco № 20 • Spring 2024

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The Principality undeniably has a lead on the Mediterranean coast regarding the variety of events and entertainment, its cultural and social life being very diverse. There have been several important happenings and news worth recalling over the last few months. We offer you this list which features a kaleidoscope of noteworthy events that made the headlines in the media.

Beking Monaco: A Spectacular Day of Cycling Excellence Culminates in Peter Sagan’s Final Triumph

The Beking Monaco event is a celebration of cycling involving professionals, amateurs and families. It concluded in grandiose fashion at Port Hercule. The 2023 edition held on November, 26 marked a defining moment in cycling history drawing together more than three of the world’s greatest cyclists with over 50 Tour de France stage victories between them, united on one podium! It also united cycling enthusiasts for a great charitable cause. Cycling stars like Tadej Pogačar, Mark Cavendish, Primož Roglič, and Peter Sagan headlined the event. The day’s program featured mixed team competitions, interactive sessions for children with cycling stars, and the adrenaline-pumping professional race on a thrilling 1.3 km urban track set along Monaco streets. The pinnacle of this remarkable day was witnessing the legendary Peter Sagan triumph in what would be his final professional road cycling race. Sagan now sets his sights on a new challenge — representing his nation in mountain biking at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The event has raised funds for the Fondation Princesse Charlène de Monaco and Fight Aids Monaco, emphasizing the broader impact of sports in contributing to society. The 3rd edition of Beking Monaco also provided a platform for young enthusiasts to be inspired by their idols and learn the joys of cycling in a safe environment.

Christmas Tree made of Chocolate is a Favourite at the Action Innocence Monaco Auction

Amagical evening in support of Action Innocence Monaco kicked off the holiday season during an annual Christmas tree auction on 13 December in the lobby of the Hôtel de Paris. Camille Gottlieb was in attendance as Christmas trees were auctioned off for a good cause. In total, the auction raised 111,000 euros for Action Innocence, an association which helps protect children from the dangers of the internet. A Christmas Tree made of chocolate made quite a stir and attracted one of the highest bids during the event. The entirely edible 26 kilogram Christmas Tree was created by the Patissiers of Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo and came with a one night stay for two at the Hôtel de Paris’s sea view junior suite, with breakfast and cocktails at Le Bar Americain. Trees were also donated by Chopard, Cartier, Hermitage, the florist Stanislas Ducreux and other hotels and designers across Monaco.

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BEKING Monaco

New Bowling Alley: Construction Confirmed by Monaco’s Minister of State

Pierre Dartout confirmed that a new bowling alley will be opening its doors in the Principality. Monaco’s Minister of State also noted that the future shopping centre in Fontvieille will be home to a new cinema. According to him, the premises located on the ground floor of the ZAC Saint-Antoine real estate complex is now reserved for the construction of the new bowling alley. The Ni Box leisure centre, which opened in 2010, had a skating rink, a bowling alley, a video games area, a discotheque, and catering outlets, with preferential rates for young people enrolled in Monegasque schools. The demolition of its 3,000m2 over five floors was made public during a municipal council meeting in the summer of 2021. When will the new bowling alley open its doors? That, for now, remains unknown, but, according to Pierre Dartout, construction is expected to begin “as soon as possible.”

https://pixabay.com/

€32,000 raised at the 5th Orthodox Christmas Gala

Every year, the Orthodox Church of Monaco – Saint Elena’s Parish organizes a festive gala dinner, following the Orthodox Christmas tradition of the old Julian calendar, which is 13 days after Western Christmas. This celebration honours an Orthodox country to highlight the spirituality and culture of the chosen country in Monte-Carlo for local guests and visitors. This 5th edition of the Orthodox Christmas Gala, with Bulgaria as the country of honour, took place on January 12 in the luxurious Salle des Arts at One Monte-Carlo, and raised €32,000. The Gala was opened with a Christmas prayer service with His Grace Irenei, Bishop of London and Western Europe at the place of worship of the Orthodox Church of Monaco – Saint Elena’s Parish, followed by the traditional walk to Place

du Casino. As the guests arrived, a champagne reception began, then a magnificent Bulgarian dinner was served, orchestrated by the world’s most famous Bulgarian chef, Andre Tokev, who came specially from Sofia, Bulgaria to work on the art of Bulgarian gourmet cuisine around the best chefs of SBM. The guests who included Mr. Guillaume Rose, representing the President of the National Council, Mrs. Brigitte Boccone-Pag ès, the Mayor of Beausoleil, G é rard Spinelli, and a delegation of around forty guests from Bulgaria had the pleasure of tasting a Christmas menu accompanied by the best wines and spirits of the Balkan country, all around performances by the most renowned Orthodox choir of the Slavic country and with the special participation of the popular singer Olla.

Monaco’s Economy sees Steady Growth in the Third Quarter of 2023

Most of the Principality’s economic indicators experienced steady growth in the third quarter of 2023, according to a new report by the Monegasque Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (IMSEE). Between January and September 2023, Monegasque turnover maintained a sustained growth of 9.1%, exceeding €15 billion. In real estate, the cumulative amount of transactions increased slightly and reached a record level for the first 9 months of the year. The overall volume of trade in Monaco’s third quarter amounted to €2.6 billion, up 0.5%. Foreign trade (outside France) amounted to €852.4 million. Turnover reached €15.3 billion or +9.1%. Employment in the Private sector amounts to 62,821 jobs, or 2,709 additional jobs (+4.5%).

There were 19,470 trips (+0.9%) with 37,428 passengers (-2.9%). 2,359 new vehicles were registered (+20.0%) including 36.2% “ecological” vehicles (According to the Environmental Code, an “ecological vehicle” is an electric or gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle emitting less than 98g of CO2 per kilometre). Lastly, there were 11.8 million stops in public car parks.

Princely Family attends the Open Air Circus Show in front of the Palace

The princely family gathered in front of the Princely Palace to attend the Open Air Circus Show on January, 13. The unique event drew large crowds and kicked off the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival season, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Prince Albert II, Princess Charlène, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella attended the show with Princess Stéphanie, Camille Gottlieb, Louis Ducruet, Pierre Casiraghi and Beatrice Borromeo. A festive parade with a brass band and performances with clowns and acrobats all took place at the event. Highlights included a trapeze performance and an awe-inspiring tight-rope walker who balanced atop an enormous flag with an image of Prince Rainier III on it.

Fight Aids Cup Trophy: Princess Stéphanie’s Circus Team Battles for Victory

Always remembering what a good cause the Fight Aids Cup Trophy is about — the fight against HIV, which still affected just short of 40 million people globally in 2022. Prince Albert, Princess Charlène of Monaco and Camille Gottlieb were on hand showing their support for Princess Stéphanie’s activities, who has been working tirelessly for 20 years in the fight against AIDS and raising awareness about HIV. The Barbaguians won the match last year with a magnificent 3 goals to 2 victory and were ready to romp to victory again. No mercy, Princess Stéphanie’s Cirque aces scored not once, not twice but three times completely denying the Barbaguians any chance of scoring. And to add to the Barbaguian’s misfortunes Charles Leclerc had had to limp off the field with a calf cramp before half-time. Fortunately, not injured. Princess Stéphanie’s Cirque team brought home the undeniable record of three victories out of four Fight Aid’s Cup matches. On the same evening of January 22, a charitable gala dinner was organized at the Fairmont Monte-Carlo hotel in support of Fight Aids Monaco in the presence of Prince Albert and Princess Stéphanie.

© Hello Monaco

© Frédéric Nebinger

The Most Important Circus Festival in the World has turned 50

The International Circus Festival of Monte-Carlo has not only celebrated its 50th anniversary with us, it is closing the centenary commemorations for Prince Rainier III, the founder of the Festival. On this 50th anniversary from 19th till 28th January there was not just one big winner but three! Imagine: Three Golden Clowns, considered the Oscars of the Circus World, have been announced for the 50th anniversary of the International Circus Festival of Monte-Carlo. Charles and Alexandre Gruss received the award for their horse juggling act, a moving tribute to the Gruss family legacy. The second Golden Clown went to the Kolev Sisters, Michelle and Nicole, for their hand-to-hand performance, which has also wowed audiences at Cirque du Soleil. Aged 22 and 24 their performance was breathtaking. So many of us were rooting for the elephants. And they didn’t disappoint earning the third Golden Clown recognizing the work of their trainers Elvis and Cvetomira Errani. We can celebrate not only three Golden Clowns but also three Silver Clowns for Duo Disar, the Wuhan Acrobatic Troupe, and the Amaraa Troupe. Not to mention five Bronze Clowns to Aleksei Goloborodko (contortionist), White Gothic (balancing act), Pneumatic Arts (trapeze), the Addis Abeba troupe (“banquine” acrobatics) and the Extreme Light dancers.

Prince Rainier loved children and immersed himself in their delight for the Circus and the fairy tale world that it creates for them. And so prizes for young artists take on a

special importance which included the cup in memory of Princess Antoinette which was awarded to eight year old Venecia GrussFlorees, the youngest artist of the Festival. There is the special New Generation category, of course, which is a festival of its own, with all the up and coming young entire circus acts. The jury awarded 17 year old Wang Mengchen from the Jiangsu Acrobatic Troupe with a Golden Junior, awarded Trixie Zavatta who wowed with her equilibrist act on a hoverboard the Silver Junior, and Taissyia Demidova the Bronze Junior.

The 46th Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival is a special heartfelt tribute to its creator, Prince Rainier III. And Princess Stéphanie was also in the spotlight as Société des Bains de Mer decided to award its prize to her. And not to forget Dr Alain Frère tasked at the very origin of the Circus Festival by Prince Rainier to make it happen and make it as wonderful as it has become. The European Circus Association showed its appreciation of Dr Alain Frère’s unique contribution with its prize.

Elvis and Cvetomira Errani

© Manuel Vitali / Direction de la Communication

Opening of the 46th Festival

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Manuel Vitali / Direction de la Communication

Camille Gottlieb, Princess Stéphanie, Prince Albert II and Louis Ducruet at the 46th Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival in 2024

© Frédéric Nebinger

The Police & the Whole Public Security Department Have Just Celebrated a Major Move

The move of the Principality’s New Police Headquarters on January 26th is formerly completed. They are back into their newly renovated and enlarged building on Rue Suffren Reymond. The headquarters for Monaco’s Police Force has not just undergone major renovations over the last two years to accommodate an increase in staff to beyond the old limit of 600. The new building has red and white stripes and sunshades. Two of the three buildings that make up the complex have been raised by four storeys. In all the surface area has increased from 6,600

Oasis of Safety: Statistics Show Street Crime Down Again in the Principality

The inauguration, on January 26th, of the new building of the Public Safety Department marks a decisive turning point for the Monegasque police. Despite a period punctuated by relocations and sometimes inadequate working conditions, the Public Safety Department has managed to maintain a high level of security. Street crime, which is the everyday crime that police action, through its preventive measures, can have a real impact on, has decreased from 59 incidents to 49, representing a -17 % change. It is worth noting that in 2016, there was one street crime incident every 3 days; 8 years later, there is less than one incident per week. There has been an increase in incidents of driving under the influence of alcohol (101 in 2022, 134 in 2023), as well as those related to public drunkenness and disorderly conduct (283 in 2022, 347 in 2023). This issue will be a priority for the Public Safety Department in 2024. Regarding thefts, there is a decrease of 75 % for automobile thefts. However, twowheeler thefts have increased from 9 in 2022 to 11 in 2023. And fast-emerging technologies that have advantages for those planning our security are constantly under evaluation.

not quite 50% to just short of 10,000 sqm. The new premises will make it possible to cope with the increase in staff numbers, with the historic threshold of 600 being exceeded. It will also accommodate services that were previously off-site, such as the police

As the Principality of Monaco, on the 26th and 27th January, embraced the timeless tradition of honouring its patron saint, Sainte Dévote, the grand spectacle unfolded in a dazzling display of reverence, tradition, and royal presence. Commencing with a traditional mass in the Monegasque language and a symbolic blessing of the sea, the day’s festivities promised a journey through Monaco’s cherished traditions. The relics of Saint Dévote, revered since 1874, embarked on a procession from the Grand Prix chicane, culminating in a solemn Salute of the Blessed Sacrament at the church dedicated to the patron saint. The celebration’s initial proceedings were broadcast on a

giant screen, allowing the public to gather on the square’s forecourt. The boat, central to the ritual, was to be set ablaze by the princely family, a poignant moment eagerly anticipated by all. The evening crescendoed into a pyro melodic fireworks display, uniquely narrating the life of Sainte Dévote through Corsican polyphonic songs and music. As night descended upon the Hercule Port and Sainte Dévote, the luminaries of Monaco, including the princely family graced the event. Hereditary Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, embodying the legacy of their lineage, took centre stage in the symbolic act of igniting the boat, a role deeply embedded in the customs of the Principality.

© Hello Monaco

Now a Helpline: Established to support pupils at risk from Bullying

In an effort to combat bullying in schools and to make it easier for people to speak out, the Prince’s Government is launching a telephone hotline to report bullying. The number is +377 98 98 96 96. It’s available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The number is for everyone: children and teenagers who are victims of bullying and all forms of violence at school, those who witness such situations, and parents and school staff. Professionals from the Department of Education, Youth and Sport and the Victims of Offences Help Association will assist callers to ensure that all measures are taken to support the victim and resolve the situation in question.

Monaco’s New Espace Léo Ferré is almost ready…

Amajor hub of culture in the Principality, the Espace Léo Ferré will soon be housed in a new building on Pasteur Island. It is an immense project that has been in the works for over six years. Once occupied by an old railway line, the site is only 250 metres by 40 metres, but will soon be home to buildings with a surface area of over 100,000 m². The new Espace Léo Ferré is expected to have approximately 1,200 seats. Music and theatre performances by the Rainier III Academy and local dance schools will be scheduled in the future building, along with galas, conferences, congresses and more. Moving the establishment will also free up space for new uses. Once the big move is complete, the old Espace Léo Ferré will be used to expand the Fontvieille Commercial Centre. The Pasteur Island will also be home to the new Charles III College and the new Media Library.

Monte-Carlo Rally 2024: Neuville Denies Ogier who is Humbled as his 10th Victory eludes him

Would Sébastien Ogier clinch his10th win in this the 92nd Monte-Carlo Rally? That was the question that set up an intense battle among the top-notch rally drivers, from among the 100 daring racers and navigators that had qualified… and were eventually whittled down to 70. The rivalry between Ogier and Sébastien Loeb for the reputation of GOAT (greatest of all-time) is stuff of legend, and here was a chance for Ogier to put another notch in his belt in that race.

In the unfolding drama of the 2024 Rally, it was in fact Thierry Neuville who emerged as the dominant force, denying Ogier the coveted 10th win. Despite Neuville facing an engine issue and Ogier staging a spirited comeback, the Belgian driver showcased resilience, outclassing Ogier in the decisive Stage 14 and securing a substantial lead. The podium saw Elfyn Evans claiming the third spot, Ott Tanak and Adrien Fourmaux completing the top-five positions.

The 2024 edition showcased the enduring spirit of the Rally. Nothing is predictable. Even the GOATS are humbled. The

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ACM –Jean-Marc Follete

This year Sébastien Ogier and Vincent Landais had to be content with second place.

pursuit of victory collides with unforeseen challenges, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this iconic motorsport saga.

New Leclerc teammate in the Formula 1 races

Other than current world champion Max Verstappen who would you think the least likely to be racing on the same team as Charles Leclerc? You would be right to say seven time world champion Lewis Hamilton. It was confirmed Hamilton had signed a multi-year contract to join Ferrari and become Charles Leclerc’s new team-mate from 2025 on a multi-year deal. The seven-time world champion 39-year-old Hamilton will replace Carlos Sainz at the start of next year after 12 seasons with Mercedes, who are now looking for a replacement, before the highly anticipated 2026 season. There will be major changes to the technical regulations then that could see racing leadership change significantly.

The Prince’s DB Frua and the 1979 Opel Ascona 400 Compete for Fans’ Hearts at the Historic MC Rally

There is so much more to the Historic Rally of Monte-Carlo than winning the race itself. The race, of course, has its seri ous side. It is a thrilling competition that this year took place from 31 January – 7 February. And in a saga reminiscent of Bel gium’s dominance in 2022, Michel Decremer and Jennifer Hugo up held the nation’s honour once more at the Rallye Monte-Carlo His torique. Guiding a formidable 1979 Opel Ascona 400, they clinched victory in spectacular fashion, marking another triumph for Belgian prowess on the Automobile Club de Monaco (ACM) stage. The His toric Rally of Monte-Carlo’s final evening commenced with a poign ant homage from the Sovereign to his father. Prince Albert II paid tribute by maneuvering a DB Frua, an immaculate replica of Prince Rainier III’s 1953 Tour de France Auto entry. After a lap around the F1 circuit, the Prince graced the podium, signaling the start for the

first competitors embarking on their journey into the hinterlands of Nice. This Royal Ride took place in the sleek sports coupé which was a replica of the one piloted by Prince Albert’s father incognito in the 1953 Tour de France automobile race. The podium this year bore testament to the diversity of talent, with British and Italian cars joining the Opel Ascona 400 in celebration. Giorgio Schon and Francesco Giammarino’s Austin Mini Cooper S clinched second place, trailing the winners by a mere 70 points. Meanwhile, Maurizio Aiolfi and Carlo Merenda’s Lancia Beta Coupé 1800 rounded off the podium, securing third place with a 130-point margin.

© Hello Monaco

© Hello Monaco

European Records were broken during the Monaco Run

Gramaglia and Pink Ribbon

More than 2,700 runners and walkers gathered for the running festival in Monaco. The Monaco Run Gramaglia celebrated its 14th edition in mixed weather conditions. On Saturday, February 10th, extreme rain unfortunately forced the organizers to cancel what would have been the first edition of the Mont Agel Trail. Participants registered for the Mont Agel Trail who wished to do so could join instead the City Trail. Despite the continuing torrential rain, the brave competitors tackled over 1,100 steps uphill. Slovenian Timotej Bečan claimed first place with a time of 45:19. Sébastien Poesy, a regular at the event, and Nejc Uršič (another Slovenian) completed the podium in 47:22 and 48:44, respectively. Among women, Hungarian Vanda Lovei won in 56:21 ahead of Aurélie Delattaignant (58:03) and Katia Lisa Operta (58:38). The first members of the AS Monaco Athletics team to finish the race were Goeffrey Lanoe in 4th place and Nadezhda Soloveva in 5th place.

Families were then honoured at Port Hercule during the Families on Track event. Around twenty families of 3 to 5 people accompanied Paula Radcliffe to complete a 5km relay without ranking. The flagship event of the Monaco Run, the 5km Hoka, saw the triumph of Frenchman Yann Schrub in 13:22 closely followed by Abdullahi Dahir Rabi (Norway) (13:24). Niels Laros completed the podium with a time of 13:26, which allowed him to set the national record for the Netherlands and the best U20 European performance in history. Holder of the Junior French record for the

5km since his participation in the Monaco Run in 2023, Nils Serre-Gehri took advantage of his return to the Principality to improve his time by 21 seconds and achieve a time of 13:55. The first member of AS Monaco, Armand Iurea, finished 94th overall. Among women, the victory went to Likina Amebaw (Ethiopia) in 14:35 ahead of Selah Busienei (Kenya) in 15:15 and Julia Van Velthoven (Netherlands) in 15:38. It is worth noting the remarkable performance of the French talent Laly Polentru, who ran this 5km Hoka in 16:18, allowing her to set the French records for Cadet (U18) and Junior (U20) categories at the same time. Finally,

Charles Leclerc Embraces the New Striking Ferrari SF-24 for the 2024 Formula 1 Season

Amidst their recent signing of Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari’s unveiling of the SF-24 signals their intent to return to the top of the podium. The SF-24, presented by Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz Jr, driving in his final year for Ferrari before Hamilton joins Leclerc, boasts a captivating design with red dominating the livery, accompanied by striking yellow and white stripes. This marks the return of yellow longitudinal stripes to Ferrari’s car since 1968, adding a touch of tradition to the modern design. Significant bodywork

changes include a revised nose and sidepods. Enrico Cardile, Ferrari’s chassis technical director, highlighted the extensive redesign of the SF-24, aiming to enhance driveability and overall performance. The team has worked tirelessly to address the challenges faced in the previous season, focusing on consistency and adaptability to varying track conditions. Charles Leclerc expressed his excitement at seeing the SF-24 for the first time, noting improvements from the SF-23 in simulator sessions.

Julia Dale was the first member of AS Monaco with a time of 19:45.

In the 10km, Anthony Barrière took the victory with a time of 30:43. Behind him, we find Quentin Succo from AS Monaco (30:48) and Jules Barriod (31:07). Professional cyclist Bauke Mollema also made a name for himself by securing 4th place (31:40)! On the women’s side, the victory went to Marie Perrier, Mauritian Olympic athlete, who crossed the finish line in 35:09. Jennifer Elvin and AS Monaco’s Adriana Di Guisto Grigoras completed the podium with times of 37:33 and 37:55, respectively.

© Direction de la Communication - Frédéric Nebinger

The World Finals of Junk Kouture in Monaco

Junk Kouture is open to 12-19 year-olds and challenges young people to design, upcycle and create high end Kouture from recycled Junk, before showcasing their design and representing their school on stages across the world! Sixty haute-couture designs made completely from recycled materials took to the catwalk in Salle des Princes in Grimaldi Forum, Monaco. By 2030 the mission of “Junk Kouture” is to impact 100,000 schools and over one billion young individuals, the adults of tomorrow. And Monaco’s neighbours on the Côte d’Azur took a run for the winning trophy at the Salle des Princes in Grimaldi Forum. In the race for the top spot, stood the International School of Nice, showcasing their creation titled “From Coastline to Wasteline.” Explaining their inspiration, ISN highlighted their strategic location in the scenic South of France, harnessing the essence of their surroundings to craft a masterpiece.

The Nice Carnival: the King of Pop Culture and the Battle of the Flowers

In the vibrant heart of Nice, amidst this chilly grip of mid-February, the kaleidoscopic spectacle of the Nice Carnival showcased brightly. Picture this: colossal inflatable sculptures soaring high, reverberating with live music, enveloped in cascades of confetti, while floral warfare ensues in the battle of flowers, all set against the backdrop of captivating night parades. And what reigned supreme this year? The King of Pop Culture lead the procession through the winding streets of the city. The carnival village at Jardin Albert I was a vibrant hub teeming with entertainment, gastronomic delights, and captivating shows. The sculptures were world-class, absolutely massive and imaginative. How much work and artistry go into this is incalculable.

The Glamour Award powered by Atlantic Technological University in Donegal, which is the home of Junk Kouture, went to the Irish design Invidia. Another Irish design the Muse by Asia O’Riordan and Erris Lindsay from Blessington Community College, Co Wicklow, won the Wearable Art Award powered by Eurospar. Steam Awards Together with Microsoft went to STEMinist designed by Vanessa Kielty, Martha Nugent and Mary McNulty of Elphin, Co Roscommon.

The night’s gala saw 10 designs from each Junk Kouture territory, including France, Italy, the USA, and the UAE with active participation and support from Monaco institutions including the International School of Monaco and the Kate Powers Foundation standing alongside esteemed Monaco partners including Monaco Telecom, WPA, Glam, and TWW Yachts.

Lemons don’t just make Lemonade: Unimaginable what lemons can turn into

Which are the most memorable unique world events on the Côte d’Azur that complement the iconic Monaco trio, the Monaco Grand Prix, the Monaco Yacht Show and, of course, the Rolex Monte Carlo Masters. Whereas the Nice Carnival may have the edge on how many are drawn to it because of the large number of locals, the Lemon Festival in Menton attracts more than 200,000 visitors every year. All of them admire the Exhibition of giant citrus figures and themes in the Jardins Biovès, visit the Crafts Fair and the Festival of Orchids with its unforgettable scents. It’s a fantasy world, still inviting everyone to take part and move to the rhythm of this simply unforgettable event. The 2024 Festival topic was ‘From Olympia to Menton’ — a nod to the Paris Olympics. Imagine the scene between 17th February — 3rd March … figures that can be up to ten metres high in dazzling yellow and orange sunshine colours. The decors are incredible, some requiring nearly fifteen tons of citrus fruit.

© Hello Monaco

© Hello Monaco

© Noble

Printemps des Arts de Monte-Carlo 2024

The biggest springtime festival dedicated to classical music in Monaco was held from 13 March until 7 April. Thirty-six concerts, conferences, masterclasses, lectures and more took over Monaco this spring. To open this edition of the Printemps des Arts de Monte-Carlo entitled “My End is My Beginning” on Wednesday 13 in Eglise Saint-Charles, the Ensemble Gilles Binchois returned to the origins of the mass for the dead with Johannes Ockeghe’s Requiem, the oldest known. Feature performances of the Spring festival directed by Bruno Mantovani were inventive, inspiring and powerful.

The Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses Monte-Carlo in Dubai

This unique Ball took place on International Women’s Day, 8 March in Dubai. It was one of the most anticipated events of Dubai season. The incredible atmosphere of this luxurious event with magnificent shows performed by international dancers, artists, singers, ballet stars and musicians was an opportunity to personally meet members of royal families, famous designers and stars of the big screen. Set to the princes and princesses’ theme, a fairy tale happening that was held in Dubai, was inspired by the charm of Monte-Carlo. The glamour of the sumptuous event created an evening that will never be equalled again! A luxurious great ball took take place in Burj Al Arab, the jewel of Jumeirah. Delia Grace Noble, opera singer and UNICEF Ambassador, is the artistic director of this project. Together with her team, she strives to turn the most magical creative fantasies

Week 2024

The environment was the central theme of the 7th Monaco Ocean Week, held from 18 till 22 March, with press conferences, workshops, symposiums, awards ceremonies, exhibitions, documentary screenings, and awareness campaigns, all focused on protecting the oceans. The event was organised by the Prince Albert II Foundation alongside the Oceanographic Institute of Monaco, the Centre Scientifique de Monaco, and the Yacht Club de Monaco.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PRINCE ALBERT II!

Photo: Michael Alesi / Palais princier

Photo: Frédéric Nebinger / Palais princier

Several thousand people celebrated His Serene Highness

Prince Albert’s 66th birthday on the Place du Palais on 14 March. Buses in Monaco were free for the occasion and Monegasques, residents, visitors and local personalities filled the Palace Square, waving flags and cheering.

The princely couple, Hereditary Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella waved from the palace balcony. The Princess of Hanover and Princess Stéphanie were also in attendance.

After the traditional changing of the Guard and Monegasque anthem, a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Birthday” was sang by the crowd.

A large cake was symbolically cut on the Palace Square by Prince Albert II, who was accompanied by Princess Charlène and their children.

Photo: Michael Alesi / Palais princier

Photo: Eric Mathon / Palais princier

Photo: Frédéric Nebinger / Palais princier

Photo: Frédéric Nebinger / Palais princier

MONACO’S REMARKABLE LANGUAGE RISES FROM THE ASHES

By Xania Keane

A local dialect is a beautiful thing. Being able to precisely express your thoughts with your community, using the same idioms your ancestors coined feels really special, especially in an increasingly globalized world.

Strolling through Monaco today, one might notice that some of the street signs are in Monegasque.

School children practice Monegasque in class and Prince Albert II made a speech in Monegasque during his accession to the throne in 2005.

Today the Monegasque language doesn’t seem to be in any danger. But did you know that speaking Monegasque was forbidden in schools up until the 1960s..? In the 1970s, the language almost went extinct. Only a handful of people spoke it fluently. Even Monaco’s Princes of yesteryear only used Monegasque in their private lives, it was never used in any official manner.

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

One can see the name of the country written in Monegasque at the entrance of the Principality.

According to the IMSEE report, by December 31, 2022 Monaco was home to 39,050 people of 130 different nationalities.

Names of some streets of the Monaco-Ville district in two languages

9686 of these people are Monegasque, or about 24,8 % of the population. This makes the Monegasque language a very niche and remarkable subject with a fascinating history.

“A LENGA D’I NOSTRI AVI” (THE LANGUAGE OF OUR ANCESTORS)

Various languages ebbed and flowed across Monaco for centuries. Monegasque has its origins in Genoa, but has evolved greatly over time.

The Genoese took possession of the Rock of Monaco in June 1191 and built their fortress in 1215. They spoke their native tongue, Genoese, and left an impression on local life and culture that can still be felt today.

The first historical documents concerning Monaco were in Latin. Documents surrounding the surrender of the Genoese in 1301 were in Provençal. In the 1300s, when Charles I Grimaldi bought Menton and Roquebrune, Ligurian was mainly spoken in Monaco, while ‘langue d’oc’ was spoken in Menton and Roquebrune.

TRACES OF MILITARY OCCUPATION

More than a hundred years of Spanish military occupation up until 1641 saw Catalan and Hispanic languages spoken by troops. Traces of this time can still be seen today in Monaco-Ville.

On the lintel of Pierre Carbonero’s house is a hispanic quote: “All things in the world pass quickly in his memory but fame and glory — 15 March 1548”.

In the 1600s, Prince Honoré II established a dual Italian and French secretariat. The archivist of the Prince’s Palace of Monaco discovered letters written by Prince Antoine I to his daughters in the late 1600s. His delicate and affectionate words were in Monegasque, though he did not use the language in any official documents.

Two hundred years later, in the 1800s, Prince Charles III encouraged the arrival of new inhabitants (masonry workers, hotel employees and more). The demographic boom caused the dialect to evolve further. New arrivals from Nice, Italy, Piedmont and Liguria each brought their own dialect, influencing and enriching the common language.

A STRICTLY ORAL LANGUAGE UNTIL 1927

In the 1920s, Monegasque was only spoken in the community and in the home. The language, described as “patois” by the people of the time, was not used in any official capacity. Anxious to preserve the local heritage, the National Committee of Monegasque Traditions was formed in 1924. They set out to record what was then a strictly oral language.

The year 1927 was the year Monegasque literature was born. Louis Notari’s rhyming poem ‘A Legenda de Santa Devota’ was the first literary work published in

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

DID YOU KNOW?

Mone gasque. “Why did I try to write my Mone gasque in verse rather than prose? Quite simply because the patois of our elders seems so harmonious and so gentle to me that I would have thought it would diminish its value by doing otherwise,” said Louis Notari. He later wrote the lyrics to the Monaco national anthem. Nowadays Louis Notari is called ‘the father of Monegasque literature’.

After that major milestone, poems, plays and stories began to form an ever-growing collection of Monegasque literature. Translations of works from contrasting genres, including Jean Anouilh’s Antigone, Letters from my Windmill by Alphonse Daudet or Tintin comics by Hergé, all added to the vitality of Monaco’s language. But the first Monegasque publications lacked the tools of grammar and dictionaries. The task of standardizing and structuring the language had to be undertaken. In 1960, a book outlining Monegasque Grammar was written by R.P. Louis Frolla. In 1963, he produced a ‘Monegasque to French’ Dictionary, on the instructions of the Prince’s Government.

Today, two streets in Monaco bear the names of Louis Notari and the R.P. Louis Frolla.

PRINCE RAINIER III FIGHTS TO PRESERVE THE MONEGASQUE LANGUAGE

For Prince Rainier III, the task of preserving the language of his ancestors became a matter of honour, and the Prince paid great attention to its solution. Since 1976, the study of the Monegasque language has become compulsory in all state primary schools, then since 1988 also in private schools. In January 1981, Prince Rainier III issued a decree establishing the Academy of Dialectal Languages. “Dialectal languages have always represented and still represent the hearts and thoughts of those who are deeply attached to their countries. They have contributed to maintaining popular traditions, the purest emanation of the spirit of a people, and their survival will perhaps make it possible to stop the standardization which threatens us,” said

Prince Rainier III during the inauguration of Monaco’s Academy of Dialectal Languages on May 15, 1982.

“FELIÇITAÇIÙN A TÜT’I ALIEVI!” (CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE STUDENTS!)

Every June since 1981, prizes for the Monegasque Language Competition are given to students. In 2023, 1,886 students participated in the first round of tests (compared to 1,416 students last year). 61 of them (compared to 50 last year) were selected for the oral tests, which took place in the town hall at the beginning of June.

Prince Albert II accompanied by Mélanie-Antoinette de Massy attended the prize-giving ceremony held in the Monaco Town Hall on June 22. Each winner received a numbered commemorative coin created for the Centenary celebrations of Prince Rainier III. A sketch in Monegasque was performed by six children and was dedicated to Prince Rainier III.

USEFUL PHRASES IN MONEGASQUE

Here are a few phrases guaranteed to impress any Monegasque speaker, including something to shout out during local sports events!

Hello: Bon giurnu

Pleased to meet you: Üncantau

Yes: Sci

No: Nun

Goodbye: A se revёde / Ciau

Sorry: Desulau

Please: Per pieijè

Thank you: Merçi

And specially for sport fans:

Go Monaco! Daghe Mùnegu!

Photo: Manuel Vitali / Direction de la Communication

Daghe Charlie! — this is how fans greet Charles Leclerc at the Monaco Grand Prix.

HELLO MONACO PRESENTS: WORDS OF WISDOM IN MONACO

BUILDING A LIBRARY OF HUMAN WISDOM

Monaco is a unique place in the world. But in the wider public’s mind, the names Monaco and Monte-Carlo remain synonymous with casinos, Formula One, luxury yachts, and offshore tax havens. But there is so much more to Monaco than these clichés. It’s the residents of the Principality who truly make Monaco unique: outstanding sportsmen, businessmen and women, film stars, artists, creative entrepreneurs, scientists, philanthropists, art collectors and more.

We come from different countries with different cultural heritage, religions and traditions. People who move to Monaco have a different personality and outlook on life. And we all manage to peacefully co-exist, literally side-by-side, in 2 square kilometres of territory. It could be argued that Monaco is the perfect prototype for countries of the future, where multi-cultural people live and create together.

Our project, “HelloMonaco: Words of Wisdom in Monaco” (WOW), will introduce you to the residents of the Principality who have achieved much in life. We will also interview eminent guests of the Principality, visiting Monaco on tour, for a concert, or here on holiday. Each person’s experience in life is different, but they all have valuable lessons to share. These interviews will be an invaluable resource, vital to our mission of building a library of human wisdom. We won’t be asking the usual questions — we will be asking questions about life, love, wellbeing, success and more. And many answers could be life changing.

Our spring edition WOW special guests all have one thing in common, that of the courage to remain themselves regardless of other people’s expectations and stereotypes.

The head of the Monte-Carlo ballet company, Jean-Christophe Maillot, is busy creating his unique productions. According to the choreographer, their style is quite different to anything else out there. Jean-Christophe is amazing at managing to combine classical dance and modern choreography. Even during the years of academic ballet’s rejection, the choreographer pursued the idea that mastery of classical technique makes a dancer universal. The good old classics should never be given up. Only in the early 1990s, invited to manage the Monte-Carlo ballet by Princess Caroline, Jean-Christophe Maillot found a troupe of like-minded people, bringing to life all his unique creative ideas.

The First Violinist of the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra, Zhang Zhang, was born and spent her early years in communist China. A difficult childhood and a complicated relationship with her parents did not at all subjugate her or leave her to view herself as a victim. If anything, it turned her into somebody brave, not afraid to defend her own opinion, which has little to do with the stereotype of a submissive

And last but not least, Jessica Sbaraglia came to Monaco from Switzerland with the intention of opening a design studio. One day, however, she realized that nothing was bringing her more pleasure than working on the land. Today, Jessica is not only growing vegetables but also looking after chickens and bees. She also offers her organic produce to the Principality’s residents and runs classes for schoolchildren and people suffering from mental disorders. This young woman with the looks of a fashion model, seemingly headed for a life of luxury, considers genuine luxury as eating healthy, wholesome and tasty foods.

A charismatic dancer in his first life, Jean-Christophe Maillot has flourished in choreography.

Credit : Alice Blangero

WORDS OF WISDOM IN MONACO WITH JEAN-CHRISTOPHE MAILLOT

By Nicole Laffont

“A true genius without a heart is nonsense... Love! Love ! This is what the soul of a genius is all about,” wrote Mozart back in his day. These words are a fair description of the Monaco Ballets' Director. According to Jean-Christophe Maillot, he cannot work with strangers and considers the art of choreography as sharing. His dancers are a bit like his family. He has even opened a special “Health Centre” to treat minor and major ailments their bodies may suffer from whilst surpassing themselves to bring out beauty.

It is in this same spirit that the choreographer chooses people he works with, abolishing boundaries between different disciplines. He thus booked a visual artist, Ernest PignonErnest, to design the scenography for several of his ballets. “I can’t do anything on my own. It’s teamwork.” Jean-Christophe Maillot has chosen to direct a large company bringing together all the nationalities and giving everyone a chance. “At my place, all the dancers are potentially soloists”. For over thirty years now, he has indeed cultivated the art of sharing, here in Monaco.

One of the magnificent images from the “Coppel-IA” ballet

Credit : Alice Blangero

Hello Monaco: A bit like a visual artist, you seem to refuse labels, being somewhat unclassifiable. Are you OK with that?

Jean-Christophe Maillot: I like the definition given by Rosella Hightower who taught me to dance. She perceived me as “the meeting of opposites”. I am quite reluctant to accept that if you passionately love one form of artistic work then you have to condemn the opposite. I was artistically raised by Rosella. She equally appreciated the great classics repertoire like “Swan Lake” and the ultra contemporary creations by the Dominique Bagouet com -

pany. I also take it from my father who was a painter and scenographer, always surrounded by artists of all styles.

: How do you position yourself between classicism and modernity?

Jean-Christophe: What I like is this multitude of possibilities that may seduce me at one point or another. I have never had a radical vision of any particular artistic form... I have no problem watching a mainstream blockbuster, and two hours later, a very cutting-edge auteur film. My dancing is therefore in somewhat of a strange posi -

tion. It does not really come from any particular artistic movement. Moreover, it has not generated one either.

: There is still a Maillot style...

Jean-Christophe: The Maillot style (I have to get old to grasp it...) is perhaps considering that a choreographer is neither a writer nor a painter. The essence of choreography is being a catalyst for the art of sharing. My work does not exist if it does not go through others. I cannot be a choreographer at home, this is not possible. I need other human beings to convey my words. Moreover, we need to be surrounded by a musical space, composers. And we need a certain aesthetic on stage, therefore working with visual artists. This identity is quite obvious. When people see one of my shows, they may or may not like it. Whichever way it is, they would struggle to single out the elements, to say that they like the dance but not the costumes or the scenography... It's a whole. It's a form of signature. So naturally the ballet is conceived by one person, but the artist's ego must vanish in favour of the work we do together.

What I like is this multitude of possibilities that may seduce me at one point or another.

: It’s difficult however for the dancers to give up their ego given the sacrifices imposed on them...

Jean-Christophe: I would say that dancers are the only ones to have this magical power of transcending the work that is mine. When the curtain rises, I can no longer interfere. It no longer belongs to me. A mandatory relationship of trust is therefore established. This is why — and this sets me apart — I am not a choreographer creating for the other ballet companies. I cannot work with people I don't know. This is all about complicity. I often say that it is not about choreography but who I am doing it with... It's a bit like cooking. For me, it is all about the taste of food. My mother was a fantastic cook. The visual part, however, sometimes takes on too much importance in the kitchen. Deep down there is noth -

Each figure is magnified on the advice of the choreographer.

Credit : Alice Blangero

ing better than a slice of ham and a gratin dauphinois... Same goes for dancing. When too many things are added to magnify the show, we make this precious little thing, the choreographic writing in its pure state, disappear. The best moment for me is the last spinning that we do here, behind the scenes, without a set, without costumes or lights. The dancer by his attitude alone may tell you so many things...

: A video is among the elements often added to the show these days. What do you think of this fashion?

Jean-Christophe: The video is eye-catching! It's rather violent. I use it very sparingly. It's like perfume, it may mask mediocrity.

: What do you think should be preserved from the academic spirit?

Jean-Christophe: A classical technique is a bit dying out today because of its un -

compromising nature. Imposing extremely selective criteria, it is not keeping up with the times. It takes an ideally proportioned body with a good kick, long arms, long legs... In the same way that an opera singer cannot persevere with inappropriate vocal cords. I want to stick to the academic dance, however. I believe that a properly trained classical dancer with a modern awareness may face a greater number of proposals. The other way around is much more complicated...For me, it is all about using this technique to see how the contemporary bit may enrich us.

: May we say that the classics are more about flying whilst the contemporary is more ground-oriented?

Jean-Christophe: Absolutely. The classical dance is challenging gravity while the contemporary is using it. There is something ethereal about a classical dance interpretation, seeking to defy gravity, where we do not perceive the effort. A contempo -

rary dance is somehow emphasizing the violence of the body and that of reality... I like to think that my work is an idyllic fusion of the two. It's a bit like politics. The centre, when you think about it, should be ideal. But we don't really like it since it's not identifiable... So I'm somewhat on my own, but I've been fighting this fight for a very long time now. I started in France in 1983 at the height of the contemporary dance popularity. I must tell you that defending academicism came pricey at the time. I suffered and got confused... I had to come to Monaco to find my universe of dancers on pointe. And Princess Caroline had the right words to say: “We must manage to give pleasure without trying to please.” I believe that the Monte-Carlo Ballets are doing just that. I consider myself a bit of a general practitioner. On the one hand, there are researchers and on the other, practitioners using the drugs invented by the latter. I see myself more like this. I may not have invented anything, but for the last 40 years people have enjoyed seeing my shows.

Jean-Christophe Maillot with Ashley Krahaus, who played the role of the child in “L’Enfant et les Sortilèges” in December 2023.

Credit : Alice Blangero

: You were a dancer to start with. Did you suffer from having to give it up because of an accident? A knee may be repaired...

Jean-Christophe: You are touching a sensitive point... Obviously my knee could have been repaired. I was a very good dancer, quite gifted. But I didn't have the courage and strength to pursue it. It takes an incredible willpower. I always say that I admire even the worst dancer. Ultimately, it was almost lucky for me to have had this accident. I started at the Tours conservatory at age seven. There was no way I could tell my parents, who had made significant sacrifices during my studies, that I was giving up. When I broke my knee, I realized that what I really liked to do was running a company. Having a group of people to do great things with. And being the one to choose them.

: Has there been a memorable moment in your career?

Jean-Christophe: My work changed when my father died. He was my mentor, and I couldn't do anything without asking his opinion. I projected myself onto him. When he passed away, my work took

another direction and that’s when I came to Monaco. At the moment I was staging “l'Enfant et les Sortilèges” in 1992, the ballet director had resigned and I already

knew Princess Caroline. Monaco is in line with me. It’s a small state, quite isolated, but it works pretty well. I managed to build something here that I would never

Each rehearsal is a great moment of complicity.

Magic and fascination in the “L’Enfant et les Sortilèges” ballet

Credit : Alice Blangero

Credit Alice Blangero

have envisaged anywhere else. In addition, we have created this fantastic event, “F(ê)aites de la danse” (Let’s dance), encouraging everyone to get started. I am all by myself in Monaco. It is therefore my duty to offer the very best here in terms of dance.

: A very painful moment, is the end of someone's career...

Jean-Christophe: Don’t talk to me about that! It's becoming more and more painful for me to tell someone they need to stop. It’s so violent! It is inevitable, however, around the age of forty, and the choreographer has the same problem. I can no longer show figures that I did twenty years ago. Thankfully, Bernice Coppieters is by my side to help me. I don't want to impoverish my writing. And then we have the repertoire of some great ballets conceived for the young dancers in their twenties...

: Does dancing damage?

Jean-Christophe: Yes. It certainly leaves traces. There are injuries. On the other

hand, regular dance practice maintains body dynamics and coordination as well as quite exquisite cognitive abilities. But from there to putting on a show... From a certain age, you don't recover easily.

: Dancers have to face an incredible rigour. Do young people still get to tolerate it?

Jean-Christophe: Dance requires seven hours of daily practice, six days a week. This activity has something of the nature of a drug to it. It is, in fact, the same in the world of sports. We cannot accomplish great things without phenomenal work behind us. No one questions spending four hours in a gym to get abs! And all of a sudden practicing classical dance at a high level is considered somewhat immoral! Here, we have specially created a health center to monitor all the dancers and keep them in the best possible shape. But the requirements are so particular in dance... Over the course of our career, we use muscles that would have never been used otherwise. It’s challenging since dance is an external discipline. It's not natural for the body.

: In terms of weight, where do we stand today? We were bordering anorexia at some point...

Jean-Christophe: We cannot imagine “Swan Lake” with 32 curvy girls. However, these days companies are watching carefully to avoid excesses. My requirements are in line with aesthetically-imposed standards.

: Does it take being beautiful to dance?

Jean-Christophe: It helps... It all depends on the repertoire. Here I have a company of 50 dancers representing 22 nationalities. I have always hired dancers based on two criteria. The first is physical and technical ability to meet my expectations as a choreographer. The second, even more important, making sure that the dancers are in line with getting along and respecting each other within the group. Commitment, humility, willingness to accept difference are the key words. It’s about adopting the spirit of the company and putting your ego on hold. Most of the time the corps de ballet is there to highlight the star. It's unbearable. There are, in a way, the people on one side and the artists on the other. I am

Real moments of sharing with the dancers

Credit Alice Blangero

Credit : Alice Blangero

Jean-Christophe

trying to create a group of soloists, however, where everyone is at the service of the other. All the dancers are potential soloists while the primas may find themselves in the corps de ballet overnight.

: It's as if you were bringing socialism to the Principality...

Jean-Christophe: Something like that. One day, Princess Caroline jokingly answered when asked why she had chosen me, “I couldn't face hiring a director with whom I couldn't have a drink after the show”. It is the human dimension that is fundamental. The thing binding everyone is the common goal.

: What are the essential qualities to become a prima ballerina?

Jean-Christophe: First of all, this is all about an unfailing self-sacrifice, total commitment. Going further without ever having to be asked. It is also about cultivating the ability that nature has given you. Finally, comes the charisma which, in my point of view, has a lot to do with generosity. I've rarely seen great dancers not experiencing a real pleasure in gifting the result of this rigour towards themselves.

: Can you tell us about your projects?

Jean-Christophe: I am not a man of projects. I've been here for 31 years which, in a way, correspond to 31 lives... At the start of each season I put things straight. There are new ballets in the repertoire, dancers leaving, others arriving. Planning two or three years ahead is something that horrifies me! This is my big chance in Monaco. I may be extremely responsive, I don't rely on just one opera...It's a luxury. I'm thinking about next December, for example. The other companies already have 2026–2027 in mind...At La Scala in Milan, I met a

In Monaco I managed to build something that I would never have envisaged anywhere else.

Ukrainian choreographer Alexeï Ratmansky and invited him to come next year. I love the encounters provoking opportunities.

Another thing, a book will be released next September. They wanted to write a book about my work. I opted for telling everything we have done here in Monaco to demonstrate the ongoing exchanges. It will thus be a book about the Monte-Carlo ballets universe, with a beautiful cover designed by Ernest Pignon-Ernest.

: And the next Maillot creation?

Jean-Christophe: There will be a Maillot creation, I don’t know which one yet. Several ideas in mind... It will be for next season.

: Do you have a dream?

Jean-Christophe: I would like to make a film in which no words are spoken. To somehow revisit silent cinema in a less grotesque way. Imagine that you can say anything with the dynamics of the body. Movement always comes from thought. Everything would be staged in a natural setting. I need someone to get me going. It will come...

Maillot is full of ideas and short-term projects

Credit Alice Blangero

WORDS OF WISDOM IN MONACO WITH ZHANG ZHANG

By Nicole Laffont

She walks in briskly, greets us warmly, settles with all simplicity in the Métropole Hotel lobby, a stone's throw away from the Opera where she is being expected for the rehearsal. When asked for photos, including a portrait, she reflects on cosmetic surgery, its downsides and excesses. For her part, she chose to be natural, spontaneous, true. All the more beautiful for it. Zhang Zhang, the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra violinist, deplores the fashion luring Chinese models into transforming their faces to resemble Western celebrities, like Monica Bellucci. “Change your features, whiten your skin, do a nose job… You have to appear Western and change your face to become famous and rich. It’s sad, it’s a rejection of who we are.” As to Zhang Zhang, she is totally true to herself. It is her belief that to know where we are going, it takes to remember where we came from.

An incredible journey made of upheavals, work, resilience. Born in the Mao's China, Zhang Zhang was a mistreated, beaten child, deprived of a secondary and high school education. However, that did not get into her way of becoming an outstanding musician after attending the most prestigious conservatories, namely in the United States. An extraordinary destiny she describes in her book: “The Way of the Bow”. This powerful work truly gives hope. Every human being can have a chance. Every child is storing a talent. Zhang Zhang firmly believes that nothing is impossible. And she is a living example of that.

Hello Monaco: How old were you when you got your very first violin?

Zhang Zhang: I was a 1-year-old or close to it. I was barely able to walk when my father made me a little cardboard violin, with a piece of bamboo for a bow taken from my grand-parents' garden. He was determined that his child to be, whether a girl or boy, would be a violinist. That was his ambition. A violinist himself, he was playing in the only orchestra tolerated by the regime and protected by Mrs. Mao... I subsequently had no musical education, however. Just a hard training like a racehorse. When mentioned that I became a violinist thanks to my father I always say “No, rather in spite of him!”

: I was actually about to say that for me you are an enigma. You were mistreated and could have taken the opposite direction. But you still became what your father wanted you to be.

Zhang Zhang: I do talk about it in my book. I was a beaten child, abused in the sense of being prevented from attending school. In the context of the cultural revolution, however, my father was also a victim, that of the regime. I saw him getting arrested in front of my own eyes

because he was somewhat rebellious. At that time, every art institution was run by a political supervisor who knew nothing of the matter. As a concert master, my father could not tolerate that. He was a very famous musician, only allowed to play as authorized for certain pieces. Certain composers were banned. Camille Saint-Saëns, for example, was too religious. Beethoven was tolerated for his support of the French revolution. That, until they realized that his “Emperor” concerto defined him as a monarchist!

Learning the violin from a very young age was more like dressage…

(DR)

I am totally against the “cancel culture” which reminds me of those times.

: What do you mean by that?

Zhang Zhang: These days there is also racism against white people. European orchestras may be criticized for being too white or too male! A small orchestra in England fired fourteen musicians because they didn't have enough diversity! It is shameful. Classical music is indigenous to Europeans, you have to be consistent. Shall we now say that there are too many Chinese at the Peking Opera? There is no such thing as positive discrimination! I am opposed to any form of it. Children should be encouraged to do what they want. And then you have to take the best, that’s all. Whether they are white, black or yellow, men or women. Auditions must totally take place behind a screen. The

The Principality is real about “living together”. We have 139 different nationalities here!

Monaco Orchestra has twenty nationalities and the Conductor is Japanese.

: Have you been directly confronted with racism?

Zhang Zhang: Yes, of course. During the Covid crisis I was even called a “pangolin eater”. I have also suffered insults because of my opinions. I am a Chinese woman who does not fit into the “victim” box. When people see a woman belonging to a minority, they don't understand how she can defend certain values, classical music for example, without feeling at all oppressed by the system. It is believed that we must be loyal to our people even if we grew up elsewhere! As far as I am concerned, I have a Canadian passport, I am a Republican and I feel comfortable in France and in Monaco where I have lived for 23 years. The Principality is real about “living together”. We have 139 different nationalities here!

As for France, I believe it to be a country with a strong critical sense. Every July 14, on

Zhang Zhang with her parents before leaving China

The children's choir of the China Conservatory of Music in 1954. Zhang Zhang's mother is in the middle of the front row.

(DR)

(DR)

the national holiday, I play “La Marseillaise” which for me is a symbol of freedom. I don't understand how certain French people may spit on it. For me, it's a mystery.

: A virtuoso violinist, you are also a woman of conviction. Tell us more about the “Zhangomusiq” charity…

Zhang Zhang: I have created this association thanks to the support of people who believe in my ideas. It all started during the tsunami in the Indian Ocean in December 2004. That's when I held a concert in the Anglican church of Monaco to help a fishing village in Sri Lanka. The church was packed, everyone gave what they had to give and the outcome exceeded our best hopes. The money was entirely paid to an NGO helping victims. Just prior to that, I had a chance to meet Sister Emmanuelle and that impressed me a lot. I understood that even if I don't have personal wealth, my violin is my means of helping people.

I thus launched a new concept of charity concerts to generate prompt aid. I am now looking for associates to take care of the rental and musicians' paychecks. All the proceeds are paid to the charities. The concert also gives the latter an opportunity to talk about their projects. People experience a moment of beauty together. It’s a kind of

communion. In addition, they contribute to something that gives them a sense of being useful. I encourage all musicians to take this path and participate in small charity concerts.

I believe in the fundamental kindness of human beings. But it all depends on ed -

ucation... Music is universal, it speaks to everyone. When I met the Maasai people in Kenya, they sang for us. They had an extraordinary musicality without having ever seen a violin! We understand each other through music. Every human brain has a region solely stimulated by it, as proven by scientists...

Zhang Zhang with her maternal grandmother on a picnic

Freedom at last! Zhang Zhang with her mother and her brother Leonardo Khan, also a musician, after leaving China and after her parents' divorce

(DR)

(DR)

: But isn’t classical music reserved for the elite?

Zhang Zhang: In France as in Monaco everyone has a chance. You don't have to be rich to become a musician. Some very modest families get to send their children to conservatories. All it takes is willingness to do music, and to succeed, you have to work. As a 13th century Chinese proverb goes, to start with, the nature of a human being is good. If a child is poorly educated, it's the father’s fault. If he is a bad student at school, it's the teacher's fault... These kind of concepts were taught to young children before they even went to kindergarten. But the cultural revolution has swept it all away!

Every child has a talent to begin with. It's a bit like a piece of jade. If we don't sculpt it, it won't turn into a masterpiece even if the stone is beautiful. Emancipation comes through study. We must encourage children, not lock them into victim status. A legend comes to my mind about a little boy in China who was so poor that he no longer had a candle for reading. He then captured fireflies to carry on with his studies….

: You don't have children. Is it because of your own difficult childhood, your father?

Zhang Zhang: Well, I would think so, definitely. I was traumatized by my parents' marriage. They were both famous and beautiful. They came across as a perfect couple... But as soon as we left China, my

I believe in the fundamental kindness of human beings.

father lost his status. In Canada, he happened to be nobody. His frustration led him to beat me even harder. My mother didn't say anything. She was crying, that's all she did...I was too scared for my children to go through what I went through. It’s an irrational fear. I certainly wouldn’t have found a man like my father, but you never know?… I worked on myself and now I’m more serene. I was terrified of passing on these traumas as if they were a hereditary

disease. I am now healed, but the moment is no longer there...

: What do you think of China today?

Zhang Zhang: For me, it is a thousands of years-old civilization with a great people who experienced a lot of difficulties. A very vast country, that's always been an empire... I was not educated in China, however. I also believe in the resilience of the Chinese people.

: Do you have a message to convey to humanity?

Zhang Zhang: Being universal is the most important value. What unites us is much stronger than what separates us.

: Do you believe in God?

Zhang Zhang: I would happily define myself as a Taoist. That being said, I love playing at the Vatican…

: Do you have a dream?

Zhang Zhang: Plenty! More than anything, I would like artists all over the world to put on shows to help those who need it most.

Concert for Kenyan children by “Zhangomusiq” in association with Scalp International Monaco

Photo Marco Strullu

Credit photos: Terrae

WORDS OF WISDOM IN MONACO WITH JESSICA SBARAGLIA

By Nicole Laffont

With her genuine and fresh teenage look, it's hard to see her as a former model, then a high-level athlete and eventually a Swiss business school student. And yet, despite her young age, Jessica Sbaraglia, has already lived a few lives of her own. Now the call of nature has summoned her to leave everything behind for her herbs, vegetables, citrus fruit, chickens and beehives.

Having first come to Monaco in 2010 to dwell in the world of design, luxury clothing and yachting, she then chose a totally different direction. This was not incidental, however. According to Jessica, the true luxury of today, is being able to enjoy healthy, authentic and tasty products. This is a choice she is sharing with celebrity chefs, young children and certain residents of the Principality who have the privilege of buying her produce. Her chickens peck at the Odéon tower foot. Jessica is also watching over Marcel Ravin's vegetable garden at the Blue Bay Monaco. Likewise, she is a permaculture consultant for three-star chef, Mauro Colagreco, in Menton. And last but not least, the only market gardener of Monaco is also head of her own urban agriculture company, “Terrae”. Her mission is bringing green to the very heart of cities, allowing their residents to eat 100 % organic.

Hello Monaco: How did this radical change in your life come about?

Jessica Sbaraglia: I arrived in Monaco with a purpose of setting up my luxury company. Nine years ago, some sort of a revelation changed the course of my life altogether. Life seemed a bit like a piece of chocolate. You feel good while eating it, but then what? Nothing... We are not talking about a lasting happiness here. I then remembered my parents' little vegetable patch which was extraordinary. I started gardening on the tiny balcony of my studio. Eating the produce grown with my own hands was very rewarding. I then colonized my neighbours' balconies to grow salads, basil... Looking up, I realized there

Surprise! A small vegetable garden at the foot of the gigantic Odéon tower

Credit photos: Terrae

were roofs in Monaco, a space available for growing things. That's when it all started...

: How did your cooperation with chef Marcel Ravin come about ?

Jessica : My first vegetable patch was planted in Prince Albert II Foundation gardens. Eventually, I started working with Marcel Ravin who has a space of 250m 2 at the Monte-Carlo Bay hotel. These days, I am growing vegetables and citrus fruits at the Odéon tower, also equipped with a mini farm with hens laying and beehives... Another space, a therapeutic one this time, was created at the hospital for psychiatric patients. They come to work with me and it makes them feel good…

Studies have shown that farming the land stimulates the secretion of endorphins, the feel-good hormones, fighting stress.

: What are the virtues of market gardening? Is cultivating your garden a healing experience?

Jessica: Studies have shown that farming the land stimulates the secretion of endorphins, the feel-good hormones, fighting stress. Gardening allows you to relax, to refocus on essential things... Learning to observe nature is very important.

: From luxury to the vegetable garden, you have taken a giant leap…

Jessica: Not really because true luxury is about consuming healthy products that taste good! Eating healthy is essential.

: I understand you educate children in this spirit…

Jessica: I am present in nine Monegasque schools with a vegetable garden. I teach children aged 4 to 15 all year round. They also come in June, before the holidays, to see the results of our work.

Jessica with chef Marcel Ravin in the garden of the Monte-Carlo Blue Bay

School children learn the joy of gardening and respect for the earth from an early age.

Credit photos: Terrae

Credit photos: Terrae

: Do you intend to increase your activities in France or elsewhere?

Jessica : A farm is currently under construction, due to open in 2025. It is part of the new “Nice Joia Méridia”, an Eco Valley district in Nice West. We are talking about eight newly built roofs here connected by a footbridge. A bar-restaurant will also be available for people to come and taste our produce. I will soon be farming roofs in Brussels, with a total area of 10,000m2 . A massive project.

: Farmers are very angry in France and in different European countries. Are you with them?

Jessica : I think the farmers are right to be angry. Sadly, they were indoctrinated and made to believe they would have a better yield by using certain seeds and pesticides. So they did and now see what happened. We are currently faced with the need for a great change. Either we continue in the same direction and will end up destroying all land, all produce and ultimately humans. Or we achieve a more sustainable agriculture with fair prices. There should be no large supermarkets getting rich on the backs of producers.

The French government has once again decided to spend the taxpayers' money. We are falling back into the same trap. It is not normal for the distributors to double the price of a tomato, or increase it even more... We are not even talking to them, however. Assuming they are very powerful...

: Are you optimistic about the future?

Jessica: There will be some damage, but we are heading towards big changes. I believe it’s really useful to have a small vegetable garden of your own. This is the guarantee of a minimum self-sufficiency, which is vital with the future being uncertain. The Covid crisis showed us how dependent we were. But, yes, I am optimistic. I want to have children...

you want to buy it. But even replanted in a large pot at home, it will die without having its “drug”. Whereas if you start from a seed, a magnificent shrub may come out of it …

: You still need to have a green thumb to have your own vegetable garden…

Jessica : No, everything can be learned. Many people believe that they don't have a green thumb because, for example, they bought basil at the supermarket, drugged with a liquid fertilizer to produce as much as possible. It looks beautiful and makes

: Do you have a dream?

Jessica : I would like my company to duplicate itself, to put nature in the heart of cities. For the people to gradually realize that they are often being sold some rubbish whilst eating things that taste good is really great.

A host of multi-coloured ultra fresh and 100 % organic products

The local residents snap up eggs laid by Jessica’s chickens.

Credit photos: Terrae

Credit photos: Terrae

Grace Kelly holding her Best Actress Oscar for “The Country Girl” on March 30, 1955

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THE PRINCESS GRACE FOUNDATION TURNS 60

By Xania Keane

Dressed in a satin gown, a dazzling 25 year old woman from Philadelphia reaches a milestone that most actors can only dream of. Her hair is held up with flowers, her hands are covered in long white gloves. Her eggshell-blue dress is broadcast in black and white to 43 million viewers across the United States during during the 27th Oscar ceremony, Grace for the second time featured in the national telecast of the Oscars. Grasping a golden statuette, the young actor’s elegance and joy is absolutely palpable. Her voice wavers slightly during a short and tender speech. “The thrill of this moment keeps me from saying what I really feel. I can only say thank you with all my heart to all who made this possible for me,” she says.

Without a doubt 1954 will forever be known as the year of Grace. She had four top-budget films released that year and a fifth already begun. Her photo was on the cover of the April 1954 issue of Life Magazine with the caption ‘Hollywood’s Brightest and Busiest New Star.’

Just one year later, Grace Kelly meets a young Prince in Monaco. Falling for him means a whole new life with very different pinnacles, worlds away from the film sets of Hollywood. In 1956, Grace Kelly retires from the screen to marry Rainier III and become Monaco’s princess.

“ALL PEOPLE ARE CAPABLE OF GREAT THINGS,” — PRINCESS GRACE

When Grace Kelly retired from acting at age 26, she threw herself into her duties as Princess of Monaco. She began charity work, focusing on young children and the arts. In 1964, she established the Princess Grace Foundation, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year.

The aim of the Princess Grace Foundation is to help children in hospitals and their families. It purchases equipment for the treat-

ment of young patients and helps provide entertainment for sick children (booking clowns to make hospital visits, organizing cultural events and celebrating holidays). The Foundation also helps children’s parents by paying for stays close to their child’s hospital and financing the construction of Parents’ Houses. Seventeen parents’ houses have been renovated or created by the Foundation all over France, in cities like Paris, Bordeaux, Nantes, Lyon and Nice.

AWARD-WINNING STUDIES IN MEDICAL RESEARCH FOR CHILDREN

The Foundation also supports pediatric medical research and is currently supporting three renowned French medical laboratories who specialize in children’s diseases. At the Necker children’s hospital, under the direction of Professor Jean-Claude Weill, the Founda -

Princess Caroline, Hereditary Prince Albert and Prince Rainier III of Monaco attend the Princess Grace Foundation Dinner in Washington DC, February 18, 1984

tion supports the study of immunological memory in vaccination and auto-immune diseases.

Secondly, Dr. Nadine Cerf-Bensussan’s studies on gut microbiota and the unexpected identification of a unique bacterium essential in protecting the intestinal immune barrier is also supported by the Foundation. The project aims at transforming this bacterium into a vaccine against enteric infections, which remain a major cause of mortality in children in developing countries. This work was awarded with the INSERM Research prize in 2014 and the Mäki prize from the University of Tampere (Finland) in 2018.

Thirdly, at the Robert Debré Hospital in Paris, directed by Professor Pierre Gressens, the Foundation supports a laboratory which focuses on foetal and newborn brain development. Preterm birth is the most common cause of death and disability in children under 5 years of age in the developed world. There is no treatment to prevent or mitigate these issues. In recent

years, the laboratory has significantly contributed to designing potential strategies for neuro-protection.

PRINCESS GRACE FOUNDATION-USA: SOWN BY THE SEEDS OF GRIEF

During her reign, Princess Grace brought culture and a focus on the arts to Monaco while also quietly supporting countless American performing and film artists. After Princess Grace’s tragic death, her family decided to create an organisation that reflected the love she had for the USA and her profound dedication to the arts. In 1982, Prince Rainier III honoured the legacy of his wife by creating the Princess Grace Foundation USA.

“I would like to be remembered as someone who accomplished useful deeds, and who was a kind and loving person. I would like to leave the memory of a human with

a correct attitude and who did her best to help others,” — Princess Grace said.

The Princess Grace Foundation-USA upholds the legacy of Princess Grace by elevating emerging artists in theatre, dance and film through career-advancing grants. Open to artists currently living and working in the United States, the Foundation’s Princess Grace Awards offers cash grants of $15,000 to extraordinary artists every year.

The CEO of the Princess Grace Foundation-USA is two-time Tony Award winning Broadway producer and investor, Brisa Carleton. She has the personal distinction of being one of only 100 investors for the smash musical: Hamilton. Her successful multi-million dollar investment portfolio has been involved in financing over 30 Broadway shows and global live entertainment properties. On behalf of Prince Albert II, Brisa Carleton is also the Chief Executive Officer of Grace Influential, which is commissioned by the Princess Grace Foundation.

Left to right: Christopher Le Vine, Grace Kelly’s nephew, Princess Grace Foundation-USA Board Member; Brisa Carleton, CEO Princess Grace Foundation-USA; H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco; Hon. John F. Lehman, first cousin once removed of Grace Kelly, Chairman Princess Grace Foundation-USA (Monaco, Hôtel de Paris, July 2, 2021)

© Gaetan

Luci / Palais princier

PRINCESS CAROLINE, PRESIDENT OF THE PRINCESS GRACE FOUNDATION

After Princess Grace passed away, Prince Rainier III appointed Princess Caroline as the President of the Princess Grace Foundation. In her new role, the Princess of Hanover decided to give financial assistance to cultural activities. Emerging dancers from the Princess Grace Dance Academy in Monaco and musicians from the Académie Rainier-III are given grants through the Foundation as they embark on their artistic careers. In connection with the Fondation Prince Pierre, the Foundation also awards annual prizes to young writers and musicians.

40 YEARS OF THE PRINCESS GRACE IRISH LIBRARY

Ajewel of culture in the Principality, the Princess Grace Irish Library was inaugurated by Prince Rainier III four decades ago

as a tribute to his wife and the affection she had for Ireland. The library houses a superb collection of rare books and Irish-American musical scores that the Princess had collected throughout her life.

Placed under the aegis of the Princess Grace of Monaco Foundation, the library currently has an online catalog which includes Princess Grace’s personal collection of more than five hundred Irish books and a thousand rare Irish-American musical scores.

Precious works of art and photographs of visits to Ireland carried out by the princely family of Monaco since 1961 are also part of the library’s collection. An important hub of Irish culture, the library is widely respected for its contribution to Irish studies around the world. The library’s President is Princess Caroline and Prince Albert II is its Vice-President.

For 60 years, the legacy of an Oscarwinning icon and a globally beloved Princess continues to thrive in the noble and compassionate work of the Princess Grace Foundation. Princess Grace of Monaco

in 1982

Christian Louboutin, Princess Caroline of Hanover, Prince Albert II of Monaco, and Stéphane Valeri attend the traditional charity Rose Ball in March, 2023

© Pierre Villard / SBM

The National Monegasque Traditions Committee is celebrating its 100th anniversary

By Nicole Laffont

On March 14, 1923, a group of Monegasques, fervent admirers of their ancestral history, created an association with the purpose of preserving their national traditions. This year, the Monegasque Traditions Committee is celebrating its centenary. From the very moment of its conception, the committee has been working on perpetuating such traditions as a seven-gun Christmas midnight salute or the one specially fired in honour of Sainte Devote. Assisted by the bakers and the town hall, it has also brought back the “Pan de Natale” tradition, raising funds for charity associations.

MUSEUM OF OLD MONACO

This summer, in commemoration of its centenary, the committee is to reopen the Museum of Old Monaco. Located on the Princely Rock, Placette des Carmes, it has been closed since 2015 for expansion works. Significant adjustments were made and professionals hired to look after the exhibitions’ scenography. Two young artists just out of the Plastic Arts School have thus taken over its two floors. The ground floor is dedicated to history. Starting from the town castle, it is taking us through the Principality’s different streets, introducing us to artists like the ceramist Ernesto Sprega and personalities who have marked the history of Monaco, perpetuated with commemorative plaques… Personalities like the poet Guillaume Apollinaire studied in Monaco. Having entered Saint-Charles college in 1889, he was awarded his first Prize of Excellence in the following year. Student of the same school, he composed his very first verses in 1893.

This kind of glorious past and the illustrious people involved are of primary interest to the National Monegasque Traditions’ Committee, always on the lookout for major and minor episodes having forged Monaco’s identity. The committee is looking particularly for the characters having marked local history through different legends and religious celebrations.

Setting fire to the boat on the square in front of the Sainte-Devote chapel is the highlight of the Sainte Devote celebration. Sainte Devote has been the patroness of Monaco since the 17th century.

Photo provided by Le Comité National des Traditions Monégasques

THE MONEGASQUE LANGUAGE USED AT SCHOOL AND FOR RELIGIOUS SERVICES

According to the President of the Committee, Claude Manzone: “Restoring the Monegasque language is also one of our goals. Prince Rainier believed that a language conveys the country’s soul. He therefore reinstated the teaching of Monegasque from the primary to the 3rd grade of middle school. We are pursuing these same efforts. Initially the committee only counted a few people concerned with perpetuating this street language, originally an oral Genoese-based dialect. Then there were the first writings, a dictionary, a grammar, and the language became alive...”.

Some authors currently write in Monegasque, poets compose their verses; even some of Tintin albums are translated into the Monegasque language!.. Following the wish of Prince Rainier III, Monegasque is thus very much alive.

During the opening of the Dialectal Languages Academy in 1982, Prince Rainier made an important statement: “Letting a language die away, is to forever tarnish its people’s inner soul, renouncing one of its most precious legacies.”

Some students are taught entirely in the Monegasque language up to the final baccalaureate year, whilst Prince Albert II solemnly awards the most deserving ones in the Town Hall’s courtyard. This is a great moment for these young Monegasques and a guarantee that their language continues to live.

The Monegasque language is also part of church life. Saint Nicholas being the patron saint, on December 6, a mass is celebrated in Monegasque at his altar in the Monaco Cathedral. Dressed in traditional folk clothing, children act out his legend. Another important celebration is that of Saint Devote whose legend is also translated into Monegasque. One of the oldest of the Principality’s traditions, it has featured in the national culture in a number of fields: religion, folklore, popular beliefs, history, literature, arts, painting, music, numismatics and philately.

As the legend goes, a young Corsican Christian named Devota was martyred under the Emperors Diocletian and Maximian by the prefect Barbarus in the year 303 or 304. Her body, stolen by the Chris -

tians on the following night, was smuggled on a boat and brought to Monaco. It was then buried in “des Gaumates” chapel, near the port, on January 27 of the same year.

In the 17th century, during the reign of Prince Honoré II, Sainte Devote became patroness of Monaco. Since 1874, this tra -

dition has been celebrated every year. A boat is burned in the presence of the Sovereign, the Princely Family and Monegasque high officials. Fireworks are then set off over Port Hercule. A large procession brings together Monegasques cherishing their past, with the National Traditions Committee members at the forefront.

“The Castafiore Emerald”, an album of the famous “The Adventures of Tintin” series, has been translated and published in the Monegasque language. This language has become alive again and taught at school.

Photo provided by Le Comité National des Traditions Monégasques

SMASHING RECORDS AND EXPECTATIONS: DRAMA AT THE ROLEX MONTE-CARLO MASTERS

By Justin Brisk

At the beginning of April, all the attention of Monegasque sports fans is traditionally focused on the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters, one of the most important sporting events in the Principality. Though the participation in this tournament is not mandatory for the world’s top players, many tennis stars come to Monaco to compete for victory. Let’s remember which famous tennis players managed to win the coveted cup, and the others too for whom missing out on the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters Trophy will remain a painful disappointment.

ROLEX MONTE-CARLO MASTERS

A LITTLE HISTORY AND QUIRKY TALE OF THE ROLEX MONTE-CARLO MASTERS VENUE ITSELF

The Monte-Carlo Masters had a most interesting story at its origin that spanned various locales, leaving a trail of tennis balls and unique legend.

The modern Monte-Carlo Country Club was originally named “Lawn Tennis de MonteCarlo”; it was located just behind the Hôtel de Paris with the date of the foundation: 2nd April 1893. In the mystical tennis realms of 1896, its first major tournament, named the Monte Carlo International, emerged. It was George Whiteside Hillyard who clinched the first men’s singles title. The women’s event’s victor remains a mystery, tangled between a Miss K. Booth from Britain and a mysterious Mlle Guillon of France. Even Wimbledon librarian Alan Little, despite his valiant efforts, couldn’t decipher the enigma. And sometimes the tennis spectacle had more humble settings than today taking place also on red shale clay courts hidden beneath and behind the Grand Hôtel de Paris until 1905.

Seeking new adventures, it shifted to La Condamine from 1906 to 1914, offering other sports like archery and croquet — that allowed the enlarging of the Hôtel de Paris. The whims of the tournament even led it to the roof of a garage in Beausoleil, where tennis aficionados witnessed the sport’s acrobatics. On January 28, 1921, with new tennis courts and a spectator haven, the event found its home with the quirky name — the “La Festa Country Club.”

The current home of the Tournament is the prestigious Monte-Carlo Country Club which was inaugurated in a very regal affair in February 1928 by H.S.H. Prince Louis II of Monaco, in the presence of the tennis enthusiast, King Gustave V of Sweden, the Duke of Connaught, Prince Nicolas of Greece, the Grand Duchess Helene and the Grand Duke André of Russia. Ten months later it was baptised “The Monte-Carlo Country Club”.

In 1969, the tournament joined the Open Era competition. The Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters belongs to the men’s ATP Masters 1000 series. Tournaments in this series are the most prestigious after the Grand Slam tournaments. The tournament has had its current name since

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

2009 (previous names were Monte-Carlo Open, Tennis Masters Series – MonteCarlo, Tennis Masters Monte-Carlo, ATP Master Series Monte-Carlo, Masters Series Monte-Carlo).

AN ABSOLUTE TRIUMPH

Rafael Nadal with his eleven victories remains the star of the tournament in Monte-Carlo. Rafa won

eight tournaments in a row from 2005 to 2012 and three tournaments from 2016 to 2018. Rafael Nadal’s dominance reached unparalleled heights in 2017 as he clinched his tenth Monte Carlo title. The historic victory, a 6:1, 6:3 triumph over Albert RamosVinolas, marked Nadal as the first man in the Open Era to achieve such a remarkable feat, further solidifying his legacy on clay.

The closest rivals are hopelessly behind Nadal: they are Björn Borg, Thomas Muster and Ilie Năstase with three wins each, Novak Djokovic, Juan Carlos Ferrero, Mats Wilander, Gustavo Kuerten, Guillermo Vilas and Stefanos Tsitsipas have two each.

In 2018, the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort inaugurated a suite in honour of Nadal. The 92 m² room features some of Nadal’s personal items and features numerous images of him on the walls.

STAR LOSERS

In 2014, in an all-Swiss final, Stan Wawrinka seized his opportunity to capture his first Masters 1000 crown, winning 4:6, 7:6(5), 6:2 against Roger Federer. Wawrinka

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal attending the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters

Roger Federer competing at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters

Photo: Gianni Ciaccia

Photo: Gianni Ciaccia

showed rare resilience to win the title in the absence of pre-tournament favourite Nadal, who was eliminated in the quarter-final. This was Federer’s fourth and last Monte-Carlo Masters final. Wawrinka denied Roger the chance to win in Monte-Carlo at least once in his life… In 2022, the great Roger retired without receiving this coveted title.

The Monaco tournament has never been won by such World No. 1s as Stefan Edberg, Andre Agassi, Boris Becker and Pete Sampras.

THE 2006 100TH EDITION, FIRST PART OF NADAL VS. FEDERER TRILOGY

In the centennial edition, the MonteCarlo Masters showcased a clash of titans as Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal faced off in the first part of their legendary trilogy. Nadal triumphed in a high-quality final, extending his clay-court winning streak to 42 matches. This match set the stage for two more epic finals between the tennis greats in 2007 and 2008. The supremely gifted Federer would never defeat Nadal, the genius on clay in Monte-Carlo.

In 2013 Djokovic ended Nadal’s eight-year reign having proved that nothing is forever, even Nadal’s winning streak on clay. Djokovic’s exceptional play broke Nadal’s 46-match winning streak at the venue, showcasing the Serbian’s prowess on clay.

SHOCK DEFEATS OF DJOKOVIC AND SAMPRAS

The 2016 edition brought a seismic shock as World number 55 Jiří Veselý derailed Novak Djokovic’s juggernaut. Veselý, displaying remarkable composure, clinched a stunning 6:4, 2:6, 6:4 victory, marking Djokovic’s earliest defeat on the ATP World Tour in three years. This unexpected loss disrupted Djokovic’s impressive winning streak, adding a memorable chapter to Monte-Carlo’s history.

Djoko wasn’t the only World #1 to fall to his knees in defeat in a Monte-Carlo upset. Pete Sampras suffered the same humiliation. In an unexpected turn of events, Pete Sampras, in 1992 the World number four, faced a formidable challenge from the 40th-ranked German, Carl-Uwe Steeb. Despite Sampras’ stellar

career, Steeb’s explosive start and nerves of steel secured a 6:3, 6:4 victory, marking one of the most surprising defeats for the American.

TOO LONG A WAIT FOR THE ITALIANS AND FRENCH

Go down the Honour Roll of the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters and you’ll see a plethora of Spanish names over the past 30 years, but no sign of any Italians. In fact, you need to go back to Nicola Pietrangeli, who won his third crown in 1968, before the Open Era, to find the last Italian singles winner. But that changed in 2019, when Fabio Fognini recorded wins in Monaco over Andrey Rublev, Alexander Zverev, Borna Ćorić and three-time defending champion Nadal in the semi-finals. He got the cherry on the cake with a 6:3, 6:4 win over Dušan Lajović to become the first Italian to capture a Masters 1000 title.

The Italians were not alone in lengthy periods of famine. Cedric Pioline etched his name in history, ending a 37-year wait

Princess Charlène of Monaco, Rafael Nadal (the winner), Prince Albert II of Monaco and Elisabeth Anne de Massy, President of the Monegasque Tennis Federation, at the 2018 Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters

Credits: © Agence Realis Monaco

for a French champion in Monaco. It was Pierre Darmon, at that time No.8 in the world rating, who brought a victory for France in 1963. Battling through steady rain, Pioline secured the title with a hardfought victory over Dominic Hrbaty, marking a milestone triumph for French tennis. Since then, Gaël Monfils is the sole Frenchman to reach the final, achieving the feat in 2016.

AND WHAT ABOUT THE DOUBLES?

The US twins Mike and Bob Bryan remain the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters record holders in doubles with their nine finals and six victories. To be honest, the formidable brothers also had unfortunate defeats. Thus, in the 2013 final, the Bryans gave up seven match points to

Julien Benneteau and Nenad Zimonjić, who were playing together for the first time, and lost with a score of 6:4, 6:7(4:7), 12:14.

HOW DJOKO & NEYMAR HAD FUN IN MONTECARLO “K

eepie uppie” is the skill of juggling with a football using feet, lower legs, knees, chest, shoulders, and head, without allowing the ball to hit the ground. And guess who is good enough at it to dare to play it with Paris Saint-Germain superstars Neymar and Marco Verratti?

It is Monaco’s Novak Djokovic, the world number 1 tennis player who in 2022 took a break from his preparations for the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters one Monday, to test his skills on the football pitch.

Pretty brave even for the GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) Novak. Neymar is one of the most renowned names in world football and has scored 71 goals for Brazil’s national team, while Italy’s Verratti is known as one of Europe’s most skillful and tenacious midfielders.

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Princess Charlène of Monaco, Andrey Rublev (the winner), Prince Albert II of Monaco, Holger Rune and Mélanie-Antoinette de Massy, President of the Monegasque Tennis Federation, after the singles final match in 2023

©

Agence Realis Monaco

TWO UNFORGETTABLE DUELS AT THE MONTE-CARLO MASTERS

Muster against Becker

The 1995 Monte-Carlo final witnessed a titanic struggle between Thomas Muster and Boris Becker. Muster, riding a remarkable 21-match winning streak on clay, faced adversity in the semi-final against Andrea Gaudenzi, experiencing fatigue and dehydration as he clinched victory but spent the night in a hospital, hooked to a drip.

The final pitted Muster recovering from extreme fatigue against a determined Becker, eager for his maiden clay-court title. Becker took a commanding twoset lead. However, Muster’s clay-court prowess emerged in a spectacular turnaround, winning the next three sets, including a thrilling tiebreak in the fourth. Down 0:4 in the tiebreak, Muster’s resilience saved two championship points, triggering Becker’s frustrations.

In the fifth set, Muster exhibited sheer dominance, securing a 6:0 victory. This triumph extended Muster’s 1995 claycourt streak to 40, solidifying his legacy. Becker, questioning Muster’s performance, faced repercussions as he was later fined by the ATP for insinuating Muster may have taken stimulants to overcome his extreme fatigue from his prior semi-final. Muster continued his clay-court dominance, concluding the year with a staggering 65-2 win-loss record on clay. And for Muster, this triumph propelled him to World No. 1 in February 1996.

Becker, who committed 82 unforced errors, reflected on missed opportunities: “I had all the chances in the world. But he didn’t give up.” Years later, when he ended his career, the German was left to rue one of the toughest losses of his career.

Vilas against Connors

Another remarkable duel pitted Guillermo Vilas against Jimmy Connors in a Rain-Soaked Drama from 1981. With the stage set at the normally sunny and glamorous Monte-Carlo Country Club, the lack of sun on that day was compensated for by the anticipation of an intriguing final.

Connors, not renowned for clay success, faced clay-court maestro Vilas (the GOAT prior to Nadal) in a contest of opposing styles. Connors at that point had never won a tournament on this surface in Europe. But given Connors’ smooth run to the final without dropping a set and Vilas’ experience on clay, the final promised a riveting battle. However, a sudden downpour transformed the clay court into a muddy pond, halting the match at 5:5 in the first set.

Vilas and Connors are forced to get back to the dressing room, the day a wash-out and without knowing when the match will be resumed.

Connors had already planned on attending some north-american tournaments, and with the organizer’s approval, the two men decide to resume the match on June 7th, the day after the Roland-

Garros final. It won’t be the case. Connors argued that he needed to prepare for the grass season before Wimbledon, and escaped playing a rematch facing accusations he was a spoilsport.

The absence of regulations obliging match completion left the tournament organizers in a quandary, leading to an unresolved final. Vilas, briefly declared the winner (later amended to show the final remained undecided) faced mixed emotions, while Connors missed an opportunity to write his name alongside the biggest in Monte-Carlo history. He never won in Monte-Carlo, leaving a question mark on his legend. Nor did he ever win Roland Garros.

If you want to be one of the GOATs you need to win a major clay court tournament!

© Agence Realis Monaco

© Agence Realis Monaco

MONACO’S GRAND PRIX AND THE F1 DRIVERS WHO LIVE HERE

By Xania Keane

Unrivalled skill, ferocious competition and heart-pumping adrenaline all come together when the fastest cars in the world blast through the winding, medieval streets of Monaco during the Grand Prix. Cutting edge technology and centuries-old history meet in an unforgettable spectacle that draws 100,000 people every year, or almost three times the population of the Principality.

The 2024 Monaco Grand Prix will take place on Sunday 26 May 2024. Between 1:40 pm and 1:50 pm, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène will drive the honour lap before the race begins at 3 pm.

Widely considered to be one of the most important and prestigious automobile races in the world, the Monaco Grand Prix was first held in 1929 and has run continuously since 1955 (with the exception of 2020). Monaco is one of only four circuits that have been on the F1 calendar since the very beginning.

MONACO’S OWN, CHARLES LECLERC

Throughout history, many Grand Prix drivers have called Monaco home. Today, Charles Leclerc, Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, Valtteri Bottas, Sergio Perez, Nico Hulkenberg, Nyck de Vries and Alex Albon are all champion drivers who live in the Principality.

Born in the heart of Monaco, Charles Leclerc grew up immersed in F1 heritage. Taking inspiration from his father Hervé, who was a prominent F3 racer, Leclerc ascended the junior ranks with a talent that quickly caught the attention of F1 scouts. Leclerc was inducted into the Ferrari Driver Academy following his close friend, the late Jules Bianchi. Leclerc’s F1 career has seen him claim an incredible 5 victories, 31 podium finishes and 23 pole positions.

Charles Leclerc

LEWIS HAMILTON

Lewis Hamilton moved to Monaco in 2012 when he purchased a luxury penthouse apartment. Ever since Hamilton’s announcement that he’ll be switching over to Ferrari for 2025, the news

has been shaking the F1 world. This year will be the 103-time winner's final season with Mercedes.

The move is being viewed as the biggest switch in the history of the sport. The seven-time World Champion will replace Carlos

Sainz and join Charles Leclerc, who signed a multi-year contract extension with Ferrari in January 2024.

NICO ROSBERG

Competing in Formula 1 from 2006 to 2016, Nico Rosberg won the World Drivers' Championship in 2016 with Mercedes-AMG Petronas Mo -

Lewis Hamilton

Max Verstappen (in the centre)

© ACM / Philippe Magoni

© ACM Jean-Marc Follete

Nico Rosberg with his wife Vivian Sibold

© Jean Ronin for Hello Monaco

Daniil Kvyat

© Daniil Kvyat

torsport. He was raised primarily in the Principality and is friends with Prince Albert II. Nico Rosberg is the only child of Finnish 1982 Formula 1 World Champion Keke Rosberg and his German wife, Sina Rosberg.

DANIIL KVYAT

Russian professional driver Daniil Kvyat competed in Formula 1 between 2014–2017 and 2019–2020. He became the second Formula 1 driver from Russia and is the most successful of the four Russian drivers to date, with three podium finishes. Soon after he began racing competitively, the young driver made the move from Russia to Monaco.

MIKA HÄKKINEN

The two-time Formula 1 champion participated in races from 1991 to 2001. Mika Häkkinen won the Monaco Grand Prix in 1998, seven years after moving to the Principality. “The flying Finn” is passionate about Monaco’s track, calling it “a special Grand Prix”.

DAVID COULTHARD

The Scottish racer participated in F1 championships from 1994 to 2008, is a resident of Monaco and has a close relationship with the Princely family. At one point, David Coulthard even opened the Columbus hotel in Fontvieille. Coulthard took part in 247 races, won 13 of them and reached the podi -

um 62 times. His book ‘The Formula for Victory’ speaks about the importance of teamwork, motivation and which strategies are needed to win a Formula 1 race. Today he works as a renowned journalist and commentator.

Mika Häkkinen

David Coulthard

Thierry Boutsen

© Mika Häkkinen

© HelloMonaco

© Ekaterina Kurilovich

THIERRY BOUTSEN

Belgian driver Thierry Boutsen began his F1 career in 1983 and spent 10 years on the track. After moving to Monaco, he launched his own company, Boutsen Aviation in 1997 with his wife Daniela. Boutsen competed in 163 World Championship Grand Prix races, winning three times, reaching the podium 15 times and scoring 132 career points.

FELIPE MASSA

Competing in F1 racing in 2002 and from 2004 to 2017, Felipe Massa has had 11 Grand Prix victories, 41 podiums and finished as championship runnerup in 2008. The Brazilian’s second home is in Monaco.

In April 2018, Massa announced that he would be taking part in Formula E racing for Monaco’s Venturi Grand Prix. During his Formula E debut, Massa surprised his fans by competing against the fastest bird on Earth, the peregrine falcon. Although the bird can reach speeds of 320 km/h, Massa managed to overtake his feathered competitor and win the race.

Massa retired from Formula E in 2020 and returned to his homeland of Brazil, where he competes full time in the Stock Car Pro

Series. He recently won 3rd place in the 2024 IMSA SportsCar Championship.

LUCAS DI GRASSI

Lucas di Grassi has raced in Formula 3, Formula 1 WEC, and Formula E, winning the 2016–2017 Formula E driv -

MONACO, THE EXCEPTION TO THE RULE

Formula 1 races generally last between one-and-a-half and two hours with the distance of each race equal to the fewest number of laps to exceed 305 kilometres. Monaco, however, is the exception to that rule. The distance in Monaco is equal to the fewest number of laps needed to exceed 260 kilometres, given the lower speeds of its street circuit nature. The glamour and history of Monaco’s race are the primary reasons why the circuit is still in use, although it does not meet the strict safety requirements imposed on other tracks.

WHEN WAS MONACO’S TRACK BUILT?

That’s up for debate! Some would say in June of 1215, when Monaco was first established as a colony of Genoa. However, Greek, Roman and Ligurian settlers preempted the rise of the Grimaldis and first created some of the paths and roads still used today.

WHAT’S THE CIRCUIT LIKE?

Incredibly narrow and completely iconic. Three-time World champion Nelson Piquet famously said that racing in Monaco

er’s championship. He has been named the best endurance driver, the best Formula E driver, and one of the most important figures in motorsport. A genius in engineering, Lucas di Grassi worked for many years as a test-driver, improving the mechanics of cars, from tires to efficiency. He currently resides in Monaco and is the CEO of Roborace driverless cars series.

is “like riding a bicycle around your living room”. (Overtaking on the streets of Monaco proved to be impossible during the 2003 Grand Prix, which saw a grand total of zero passing moves from drivers!)

WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO WATCH?

If you don’t have insider access to one of the overhanging apartment blocks around the circuit (or access to a boat on the harbour) Grandstands L to P come highly recommended. They are located around the Swimming Pool section of the track and are where drivers lead their cars through the tight chicane at 200km/h. If you’re after an iconic view to go along with the race, Grandstand B overlooks the magnificent Casino Square.

MONACO’S GRAND PRIX IN NUMBERS

Number of Laps: 78

Circuit Length: 3.337 km

Race Distance: 260.286 km

Lap Record: 1:12.909 Lewis Hamilton (2021)

© Lucas di Grassi

Lucas di Grassi (on the left) and Felipe Massa

FLYING LIKE MUSICAL NOTES:

Roland Degoumois’ Journey to Aviation Excellence

By Helena Litvak

Transitioning from the world of music to the aviation industry, Roland Degoumois, CEO of RC Monaco Jets, shares the inspiring story of how the company started and its dedication to revolutionizing luxury travel. In today’s fast-paced world where time is of the essence, the demand for efficient and reliable business jet services has never been higher. Choosing the right company is crucial. In an exclusive interview with Hello Monaco, Roland explores the unique beginnings of RC Monaco Jets and their personalized approach to providing exceptional private jet services. Roland combines his musical expertise with the art of luxury travel, ensuring a smooth journey for every passenger.

Roland Degoumois, CEO of RC Monaco Jets

: Can you share a brief overview of how RC Monaco Jets started and what experiences influenced its identity and reputation?

Roland Degoumois: The story of RC Monaco Jets began in 2009 when I transitioned from my career as a concert pianist due to personal circumstances. Subsequently, I gained valuable insights into the aviation industry while working as a sales assistant at Perfect Aviation. In 2011, I founded RC Monaco Jets to offer personalized services. Managing the company with my partner and assistant, we focus on building closer relationships with our clients by tailoring our services to their needs and preferences. This personalized approach ensures that clients feel well taken care of and don’t have to talk to multiple people, which helps build trust and ensure their satisfaction. Our reputation is based on honesty and transparency in every interaction.

: Roland, it’s fascinating how you went from being a concert pianist to joining the aviation industry. How does your background in music influence your leadership at RC Monaco Jets?

Roland Degoumois: Being a concert pianist requires an abundance of discipline, rigour and, importantly, sensitivity in every performance. Drawing from my diverse background, I’ve cultivated an innate understanding of various cultures and a deep connection with people. This background influences my approach, enabling me to fulfill our customers’ expectations with a heightened sensitivity, ensuring their satisfaction.

: What makes booking with RC Monaco Jets enjoyable for clients?

Roland Degoumois: Booking with RC Monaco Jets is easy and enjoyable for everyone. We are committed to providing a smooth travel experience. This commitment begins with our highly knowledgeable and dedicated team, who have a deep understanding of the luxury aviation industry and are available to assist clients at every step of the way.

: Does RC Monaco Jets operate globally, and how does it ensure safety and compliance for its services?

Roland Degoumois: RC Monaco Jets offers private jet services worldwide and en -

sures safe departures by following NOTAM regulations and communicating with aircraft operators.

: Why is Monaco an ideal location for RC Monaco Jets, and what benefits does it offer clients?

Roland Degoumois: Monaco is an ideal location for RC Monaco Jets due to its global luxury reputation, proximity to major European cities, and state-of-theart infrastructure. It offers convenient access to high-net-worth individuals, leading business centres, and exclusive events, making it a desirable choice for our clients.

: How does RC Monaco Jets approach its pricing policies to ensure transparency and flexibility for clients?

Roland Degoumois: RC Monaco Jets maintains transparent and flexible pricing based on clients’ needs and budgets. This approach eliminates hidden fees and provides clients with a clear understanding of the costs involved, building trust and confidence in our services.

Studio PHOTO PETIT

: How does RC Monaco Jets simplify booking private helicopter services, including custom and scenic flights?

Roland Degoumois: RC Monaco Jets simplifies booking private helicopter services by directly connecting with various helicopter companies. We handle all the necessary arrangements and

coordination on behalf of our clients, ensuring a smooth and stress-free booking process for custom and scenic flights.

: Roland, which destinations for the scenic flights are the most popular?

Roland Degoumois: Our top destinations include the French Riviera, the Maldives,

the Greek islands, and the Grand Canyon in the USA. We offer panoramic flights between these countries, allowing our clients to enjoy stunning aerial views during their travels.

: What are RC Monaco Jets’ future goals for improving services and expanding presence?

Roland Degoumois: At RC Monaco Jets, we’re dedicated to constantly enhancing our services to better serve our valued customers. We put customer satisfaction above all else, making it our top priority. By consistently improving our offerings and focusing on customer needs, our goal is to provide an exceptional experience that exceeds expectations.

: We extend our sincerest gratitude to Roland Degoumois for sharing insights into the world of luxury aviation with us. RC Monaco Jets’ dedication to excellence and customer satisfaction is truly admirable, and we look forward to witnessing their continued success in the industry.

Judith Senty, Roland Degoumois, CEO at RC Monaco Jets, and Ariane Degoumois

Protecting and progressing Planetary Health

The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, a global, non-profit organization, works around the world to bring humanity together to empower impactful solutions for our planet’s biodiversity, climate, ocean and water resources. Through our initiatives and the hundreds of projects we support we aim to build a more conscious future.

Protéger et faire progresser la santé planétaire

Every one of us has an opportunity to help progress Planetary Health for present and future generations.

Join us in building our legacy, together.

La Fondation Prince Albert II de Monaco est une organisation internationale à but non lucratif, oeuvrant dans le monde entier afin de promouvoir des solutions e cientes pour la biodiversité, le climat, les océans et les ressources en eau de notre planète. Au travers de nos initiatives et des centaines de projets que nous soutenons, nous participons à construire un avenir plus conscient.

Chacun de nous a la possibilité de faire progresser la santé planétaire pour les générations actuelles et futures.

Ensemble, œuvrons en faveur de notre héritage commun.

GENEVA

NEW

Photo : ©Gerardo Ceballos

THE MONACO BALLS AND THEIR DRESS CODE:

sparkling in the luxurious Principality settings

By Julia Saint-Germain

Monaco is famous for its spectacular parties and galas. The most distinguished of guests and celebrities from the world of art and culture traditionally attend the local events. If you are on the list, do mind the dress code usually mentioned in the invitation. How to dress right and stay on top of the dress code...?

TWO OF THE STRICTEST DRESS CODES, THE WHITE TIE AND THE BLACK TIE

The two most common dress codes required for special occasions, are the White tie and the Black tie. Whilst the White tie is decidedly formal, some variations are permitted for its black version.

The White tie suggests the strictest dress code. It is common for the most solemn and important events, such as the President’s, King’s or Prince’s special receptions or the Nobel Prize Award ceremony. In this case, a black or white tailcoat, white bow tie, white vest, black patent leather shoes and black socks are expected of the gentlemen. A pocket watch, a thin cane and white gloves are recommended, but not compulsory.

Ladies are invited to wear a proper evening dress. A floor-length evening ballgown (with a train and a low neckline tolerated), long gloves, high-heeled shoes and a tiny handbag. An important point regarding jewellery: no bijouterie allowed, real gemstones only. The White tie dress code also does not permit any bare arms or loose hair.

The Black tie is the second strictest dress code, traditionally required for red carpet appearances: the Oscars, the Golden Globe ceremonies, theatre premieres and charity evenings. Literally speaking, it is a suit equipped with a black bow tie made of the same material as the trim of its lapels and

stripes. The compulsory tuxedo, however, may be of any colour, even milky white if in summer. A wide fabric belt is a required accessory. Opt for a white shirt and a black bow tie. Classic derbies or oxfords would do for shoes (as long as they are not patent leather this time).

Ladies may opt for a cocktail or evening, long or knee-length dress. Costume jewel -

lery is acceptable and no furs are compulsory, an overall nobility and elegance being the main requirement. Shoes, and this is non negotiable, have to be high-heeled.

This being said, the Black tie dress code may have certain variations. Black tie invited, Black tie optional or Creative blacktie invitations leave some room for indulgence.

Princess Caroline of Hanover, Prince Albert II of Monaco and actress Sharon Stone attend the 5th Monte-Carlo Gala For Planetary Health in 2021

Photo: Jean Ronin for Hello Monaco

With the Black tie invited , men do not have to wear a tie, with all the other above requirements applying. As to the ladies, rather than a long evening gown, they may opt for a cocktail knee-length dress or even a smart suit. A hat and hair accessories are allowed, as are some good jewellery and a handbag with its colour contrasting with that of a dress.

The Black tie optional is even more tolerant. Men may forgo a tuxedo for the sake of a dark suit and tie, while ladies may mix and match an evening outfit: a dressy blouse and a maxi skirt or trousers paired with a ladies tuxedo. They are also free to wear a cocktail or a classic black dress.

And last but not least, the Creative black tie naturally encourages creativity. Men may forsake a black and white in favour of a coloured tuxedo. Original accessories are allowed. Ladies may also enjoy a wide range of options: sequined skirts, lace dresses and evening outfits, or dress pants paired with a thin cashmere jumper.

From left to right: Ben Sylvester Strautmann, Princess Alexandra of Hanover, Pierre Casiraghi, Beatrice Borromeo, Charlotte Casiraghi, Tatiana Santo Domingo and Andrea Casiraghi attend the Rose Ball in Monaco in 2023

From left to right: Alice Taglioni, Frédéric Platini, Princess Charlène of Monaco, Prince Albert II of Monaco, Camille Gottlieb, Betina Ragazzoni, YannAntony Noghès, Gareth Wittstock and Róisín Wittstock attend the Red Cross Ball in Monaco in 2023

© Pierre Villard / SBM

Photo: Eric Mathon / Palais princier

PLACES REQUIRING A COMPULSORY DRESS CODE IN THE PRINCIPALITY

Despite being renowned for its luxurious lifestyle, Monaco remains quite casual, with a strict dress code rarely required of its guests and residents. However, if you are attending a dinner with the Prince or a special gala evening, do read the invitation carefully. Most likely, it mentions the White or the Black tie dress code. In everyday life, however, a formal attire is barely expected.

In summer, jeans and shorts are tolerated almost everywhere. But if you are dining at Alain Ducasse three Michelin star “Louis XV” or one Michelin star Le Grill, make sure you look elegant. A man is expected to wear a jacket, regardless of the time of year.

The legendary Monte-Carlo Casino also has a certain dress code, preserving its unique aura and traditions, dating back over 150 years. Casual clothing is tolerated in the Atrium and the Renaissance halls between 9.00am and 2.00 pm. Same being true for the Europe hall between 2.00 and 7.00pm. Sneakers, sandals and flip-flops are no longer allowed, however, neither torn or worn jeans and tracksuits. In the late af-

From left to right: Marie Ducruet, Louis Ducruet, Prince Albert II of Monaco, actress Julia de Nunez and Camille Gottlieb at the opening of the MonteCarlo Television Festival in 2023

Princess Charlène of Monaco and Laurent Puons at the red carpet of the Monte-Carlo Television Festival in 2023

© Festival de Télévision de Monte-Carlo

© Festival de Télévision de Monte-Carlo

ternoon, shorts, T-shirts and sweatshirts are no longer an option. Gentlemen are advised to wear jackets or suits, dark jeans and casual shoes. If you are playing in one of the casino’s private rooms, you have to wear a jacket or a blazer (provided by the staff upon request).

A peculiar, history-anchored rule also applies: no uniforms are tolerated in the Monte-Carlo casino, be it military, navy, fireman’s or any other. As a pre-revolutionary legend goes, a captain of a Russian warship once squandered the ship’s treasury at roulette. To take revenge, his crew then sailed offshore and shot at the princely rock from afar. Since then, uniforms are understandably not welcome at the Monte-Carlo Casino.

THE DRESS CODE FOR MONACO BALLS AND GALAS

The Rose Ball

The Rose Ball is traditionally held at the end of March at the Monte-Carlo Sporting’s “Salle des Etoiles”. After Princess Grace created her own founda -

tion in 1964, this charitable event has been helping disabled or severely ill children thanks to the funds raised from its ticket sales, auctions, raffles and guest donations.

The Rose Ball is currently chaired by Prince Albert II of Monaco and Princess Caroline of Hanover, the head of the Princess Grace Foundation. As for the Ball, its hall is traditionally decorated with delightful bouquets of thousands of roses. Worldfamous celebrities perform for its guests. If attending the Rose Ball, opt for the Black tie dress code.

The Red Cross Ball

The Red Cross Ball is yet another of Monaco’s annual balls, bringing together some famous guests. It was first held in 1948, the year the National Red Cross Society was founded by Prince Louis II. Ever since, its charity concerts, auctions and evenings in support of various projects have become a wonderful tradition. Since 1989, the Red Cross Ball has been involving artists, with a work of art specially created for its every edition.

The Red Cross Ball is traditionally held at the end of July in the Monte-Carlo Sporting “Salle des Etoiles”, favouring the Black

Marquise Roberta Gilardi and Olga Taran attend the Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses in 2020

Véronique Alexandre and Marieux van den Broek attend the Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses in 2020

Photo: Jean Ronin for Hello Monaco

Photo: Jean Ronin for Hello Monaco

tie dress code, with ladies wearing an evening dress, and men, a tuxedo.

The Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses

This fabulous ball first took place on February 14, 2016, Valentine’s Day. Held under the high patronage of Prince Albert II, it is organized by the event agency, Noble Monte-Carlo. Its founder, opera singer Delia Grace Noble, has long gained a flawless reputation for her stylish

shows, unforgettable private parties and unique corporate events around the world.

First held in the Principality, the Ball now goes well beyond its borders. On March 8, 2024, the Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses was hosted by the luxurious Burj Al Arab, in Dubai. On May 22, during the Cannes Film Festival, it will be held in the legendary Carlton Hotel. Back in 1954, the master of suspense, Alfred Hitchcock, invited Grace Kelly and Cary Grant to play in “To Catch a Thief”. This romantic thriller took place on the French Riviera. With some key scenes

filmed in The Carlton, the hotel remains one of the most memorable filming locations. Seven decades after, the magic of cinema is still there. And Grace Kelly remains in the heart of her fans as a stunning actress who became a stunning princess.

This one-of-a-kind ball, immersing us in a royal luxurious atmosphere, naturally requires a special dress code. Ladies are wearing luxurious ball or floor-length gowns with a tiara in their hair. Gentlemen adhere to a military uniform or a strict White or a Black tie dress code.

The Monte-Carlo Television Festival’s Red Carpet and Gala

The Monte-Carlo Television Festival was initiated in 1961 by Prince Rainier III. Welcoming studios, television channels and digital platforms to present their programs to the press and public, this five-day event is held in an idyllic setting. Naturally, its participants all have its main prize in mind, the “Golden Nymph”, a copy of the famous “Nymph Salmacis” by a native of Monaco, Francois Joseph Bosio.

Olga Taran attends the Christmas Ball in 2021

© Hello Monaco

The Festival is renowned for its luxurious events: the opening and the red carpet, the award ceremony and the closing gala evening. A cocktail dress code is expected at the Festival’s opening ceremony, with the gentlemen wearing a dark suit, light shirt and tie, while ladies are permitted a smart suit with a flowery skirt or trousers or a short dress. The Golden Nymph ceremony and the gala evening have a stricter dress code: Black tie only.

The Christmas Ball

Held in Monaco for over fifteen years, the Christmas Ball in December honours the end of the year. Its traditional venue is the luxurious Empire Hall of the Hôtel de Paris. The Christmas Ball is supported by the Princess Charlène Foundation. Black tie dress code is required of its guests, in line with its solemn and festive mood, preceding Christmas and New Year holidays. In 2023, Princess Charlène of Monaco was sparkling here in a stunning silver sequins dress matching her shoes. This sophisticated look was crowned by flower-shaped earrings.

From left to right: Sandrine Garbagnati Knoell, Giulio Alaimo, Père Noël, Princess Charlène of Monaco, Gareth Wittstock and Róisín Wittstock attend the Christmas Ball in 2023

Lady Monika Bacardi and Olivier Wenden attend the Christmas Ball in 2021

Photo: Eric Mathon / Palais princier © Five Stars Events

TOM CLAEREN: #nofilters

By Olga Taran

Over the last five years, the Instagram industry has experienced significant growth, particularly in terms of revenue, user base, and engagement. Instagram has shown a rapid increase, especially noted during the pandemic, which drew more users and brands to the platform. From generating $0.5 billion in 2015, Instagram's estimated revenue skyrocketed to $60.3 billion in 2023.

The platform’s user base also expanded significantly, reaching 2.115 billion active users by 2023, demonstrating a steady growth pace and marking Instagram as the fourth most popular social app worldwide.

Now we have a few major players on Insta: public figures and influencers. While public figures are recognized for their societal, cultural, or professional contributions, influencers are known for their content creation and personal engagement within specific niches. We have pleasure in meeting Tom Claeren who created his own successful story on Insta and shared with us some insights.

Olga: Tom, for those who maybe don't know you, can you tell us where you're from?

Tom: I am from a modest French family. I grew up in a very small village with 500 inhabitants. So, very far from the world we know in Monaco. Simple family, nice house, a lot of land; I grew up outside, so it was a very happy childhood. My mom has nine brothers and sisters. So I have a lot of cousins and grand cousins. At Christmas we are like 45 for dinner. We try to catch up twice a year with everyone.

Olga: You came to Monaco to set up a business with your father…

Tom: We were supplying home entertainment for yachts and villas. I was on the marketing side of the company because I have a master’s degree in digital marketing and business development. I started the branding and creation of a company in Monaco and after that my current media company.

Olga: Does it mean you got inspired by luxury lifestyles thanks to the clients of your father's company?

Tom: I discovered what kind of clients and opportunities Monaco had to offer. During the events I met interesting people from the cinema or in the influence media industry. And this is how I got inspired. Actually in Cannes during the film festival, I was in some parties with major influencers at that time. And I got inspired to create my own version of luxury lifestyle media here in Monaco. I presented myself as a person specializing in luxury lifestyle events and media to share online.

@tomclaeren

Olga: We call people who work in Insta “social media entrepreneur”, “influencer”, “public figure”. And how do you define yourself?

Tom: I run a marketing company, so we provide services for luxury brands, international brands in digital marketing; we produce content, we create promotion, events and value for these brands. I'm a public face of my own media and an ambassador for some brands we work with. So it's a mix between a sort of influence but in a niche media. We don't have hundreds of millions of followers, but a target group interested in our topic, which is luxury lifestyle, travel, hotel, cars, watches and jewellery. I'm doing creative direction, film direction, content production, marketing agency, consulting, and also the media side of it with my face on it.

Olga: Talking about influence, people follow you for various reasons. In that case you can influence their purchasing behaviour . Do you feel any real responsibility for what you're doing?

Tom: Definitely. As soon as your audience reaches a large number of people you are responsible for the communications. I've refused a lot of partnerships or deals with companies which were not fit for my audience. I'm very picky about what I will show to my followers. Obviously, we have commercial agreements with brands, but I don't want to say “we are selling this with promo code” or this kind of thing. It's more like showing a lifestyle and a life inspiration and beautiful assets, elegant products and topics.

Olga: If you promote something, do you say: “I use it for myself, it is a good stuff, I never recommend to my followers something bad”…?

Tom: I would not recommend something I would not use. So in that sense I choose products that I like and I think bring value to my audience. It's my own channel with my own followers. They trust me. They sign up and they expect to see some quality content and something which is curated in that way. So I feel very responsible for what we publish. Most of the things we show are something we create because it's what I love. I love creating, I love producing new images and new content, inspiring my audience with unique angles.

Olga: Is there something you’ll never do?

Tom: I do have my limits. I will never have anything imposed on me by any brand. So it's more partnerships to create con -

@tomclaeren

tent together. There are many companies promoting maybe doubtful products or scamming or promoting those that can be addictive for some audience. I would not like to promote that kind of stuff.

Olga: Do you follow some bloggers and influencers who really inspire you?

Tom: My inspiration comes more from the cinema industry, actors and the beautiful aesthetic of the cinema world that I wanted to bring also to social media when we started our cinematic production for brands. So it would be more iconic actors, like Denzel Washington, Leonardo DiCaprio, Matthew McConaughey… or great young actors such as Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya. Storytelling and the cinema world take a lot of space in what I do every day.

Olga: You are not only a director of your company but its face. Would you like to be an actor?

Tom: Cinema was always something I loved. But I was very shy when I was young and I couldn't really go straight into

cinema. So creating a media company was a way to enter this industry without really going straight to mainstream cinema.

Olga: How many people are involved in your project?

Tom: Every project in content production is different. So we have a fixed team, a few people in photography, videography, an assistant and administration support etc. For some other projects we grow to 20–30 people, hiring a lot of self-employed people. It's very interesting and I'm happy because we work with a lot of talent located here, in the south of France, but also in different countries.

Olga: On Instagram we see your amazing life, beautiful places, cars, outfits; you always look handsome. Does your real life differ from the Instagram one?

Tom: I live in Cap Martin, near the sea. It's quiet, I love it. I love the south of France because it's where I'm from. I love light, people, food, air… Half of the year we travel for our projects, our events, our business, and it's more dynamic. My com -

pany also requires office work, administrative work and preparative work. Getting inspiration for new creative projects can be tough when going from one project to another. You have to reset your mind. To find new ideas is the challenging part of the business. That’s why I like to be quiet in my personal life, to relax and do sports.

Olga: What was your biggest challenge?

Tom: My biggest challenge was to decide to follow my passion and to jump into creating my own business — even though I had a very stable position and salary. I had to take a risk and then to fly on my own. And then it paid off because obviously it became a successful company.

Olga: How do you measure your success?

Tom: Overall, success on Instagram can depend on various factors including the type of content shared, the target audience, and how engagement is measured. First of all, with the figures, of course, income and profits, etc. The second indica -

@tomclaeren for Mercedes-Maybach

tion for me is on the media side and the value that people bring to your project when you realize something big. And the last indicator of success would be happiness. If you make a lot of money but you're not happy, it's not really success. It’s so simple: you could instead make maybe less profit, and end up super happy and that would be more important.

Olga: Let’s talk about the Formula 1 event. You said that you were going to do a new project next year. Can you give some insight into what it is going to be?

Tom: For me, the goal is to create something very special in Monaco during the Formula 1 event. A lot of celebrities, personalities and business people come here

for the F1, so it's a very important moment to connect around the races but also but also for business for parties, events and brands. This year we are chartering a 50+ metre yacht for hosting events for four days and four evenings as well as holding cocktail parties with special DJs and celebrities. The goal for us is to provide something that hasn't been done somewhere else. Last year we put a Ferrari F40 that costs €2.5 million on the helicopter deck of a boat with our sponsor ALTR! And then we created an art exhibition and a watch exhibition. And suddenly a lot of people were talking about our project because it was unique and attracted a lot of media value. So people who will purchase tickets to watch the race from our yacht are sure that it will be an amazing and very exclusive network. We have local guests, but also people coming from Asia, America and Europe. It is so interesting to bring people from different industries and different countries together to enjoy the race. And also, a lot of business can take place on this platform for our partners and for our private guests.

Olga: Are you looking forward to expand your activity all around the world?

Tom: Yes, so this is a strategy that I'm putting together. This year is the second year we will have a boat in the port of Monaco. I'm looking at other destinations such as Abu Dhabi, for example, where you can have a yacht in the marina. And I want this year’s Monaco Grand Prix edition to achieve at the highest level as we did last year. And after that, we are looking for expanding our project in other countries.

Olga: Which rules and principles are important in your life, maybe in work?

Tom: The first principle I'm trying to follow is as much as possible to follow what you love not always money or things like that. Because money comes when you do what you love. And doing it well is important. I started with passion and it's how I created my business. Also to believe in yourself because when you have a strong idea, you must really believe in yourself. Some people will not have your vision, so it's important to go ahead, no matter what people say.

Olga: Now social media has a lot of rules and even in Instagram they are changing their algorithms. Do you follow these changes and how do you adapt?

Tom: Of course, the industry is changing and the consumers are also changing their

@tomclaeren

behavior and how they consume content. And it's important to always keep an eye on trends. Photo posts are still dominating the platform. Carousel posts, interestingly, have the highest engagement rate. However, video content, including Reels, has seen an increase in viewing time dramatically.

But also it's important to remain yourself and continue with what you create, to follow your own creative direction. So we try to keep our image and our branding, but also implement new trends, which is, for example, shorter form content. Now, as you can see, attention is very short on Instagram. People are scrolling fast. Before we were working on longer videos, like one or two minutes, but now we do a lot of short forms also because the brands are asking us for 10 second videos which can get a lot of attention and views. So it's a mix between adapting to new trends and keeping your own style.

Olga: Women earn more money in modelling than men, for example. Who is more successful and who is getting success easily on Instagram? Men or women?

Tom: That's a tough question. I haven't made an analysis of this, but I see that there are probably more women in the influencer industry because of the topics in fashion, makeup, food and healthy products etc. There are a lot of feminine voices, I would say. But for men it's also positive because we are maybe fewer in this industry and we bring a different perspective. My audience is 85 % male based, so I have a lot of men following my media.

Olga: Do you know some of them personally?

Tom: I have friends following my page. Sometimes we also have celebrities following like Conor McGregor, for example, or Jay Balvin, or some Formula 1 drivers … people with 30, 40 or 50 million followers. Also we have private clients; sometimes we meet followers after they message me and then we become friends. It's very interesting to connect with people all around the world. And I think it's a great tool not only for business, but for relationships.

Olga: You are an ambassador of few brands. Can you name them?

Tom: We work with the Marriott Group, for example and in the hotel industry with the Ritz-Carlton more precisely. We go to their hotels for new openings, and we produce

visual campaigns for their communication and media exposure. In the car industry we work with Aston Martin. We have now quite a long term relationship, and we've been working with other brands like Bentley, Mercedes-Maybach and Lamborghini, and with ALTR with the Ferrari F40 on the yacht at Monaco F1. We’re working with brands in watches and jewellery, like Chopard, Audemars Piguet, also in yachting, real estate, art with Artist Richard Orlinski and Bel Air Fine Art, even in the spirits industry with beautiful Maisons such as Dom Pérignon or Château d’Yquem. So it’s pretty wide and I like new challenges and also new kinds of products because it brings a new sort of creative direction to our business.

Olga: I'm sure you had a moment when people come to you saying “Ah I know you, let’s make a photo together”.

Tom: It happens and it’s always a pleasure as people come with a very positive message like “I have been following you for many years, I love what you do”. So, it's an important part of the business to see the recognition from the people who are following us.

Olga: And what about negative comments? How do you deal with them?

Tom: If a negative comment is out of topic, I am simply blind to it. I don't listen to negativity. I don't have time for it.

Olga: Many youngsters want to become influencers. What kind of advice can you give to them? How to start? What to avoid?

Tom: My advice would be to believe in themselves and then to stay true to them -

selves, not to try to be someone else but to show who you are. Nowadays, you can grow quite quickly if your content is interesting. So stay consistent, post regularly and don't pay attention to numbers.

Olga: What do you think about buying followers?

Tom: It brings shame to the industry. And it's surprising that it's not more regulated because it's bringing a lot of bad attention to the business. Many people are entering and suddenly acquiring one million followers and fake likes, fake followers, fake comments and still getting invitations from big brands or deals. And this is, I would say, also bad for the people with real numbers who have been working hard. I've never bought any follower or any likes. I don't hide any numbers. I'm proud of it. I know it's real. And we have great people following my media. But now it's part of the industry and brands have to be careful when they select media or influencers.

Olga: I also think that it really depreciates social media. You know, when you see some accounts with a million followers, but now it's easy to figure it out who is real and who is not…

Tom: Now the problem is people who are not comfortable if they don't have big numbers. And I think it's more of a society problem like “oh, I need tens of thousands...”. But if you have 400 likes or 100 likes from 100 important people, it's amazing. You know, even 10 likes in your industry, if I post and I have 10 likes from 10 billionaires, the value of this is huge. I prefer having 10 quality likes than 100,000 likes because my niche industry is not about num -

@tomclaeren

@tomclaeren for Airbus Corporate Helicopters

bers. It’s more about quality. People have to realize it's not about numbers and who cares whether you should have a lot of likes or not. It's more about your message, the value you bring and your audience.

Olga: Does it demand a lot of work to be in shape?

Tom: I'm lucky I was sportive; I played tennis for 10 years. I do my sport regularly now at the gym. I like boxing with my coach, also playing padel with my friends. So I'm trying to stay active and in good shape and also for the image, of course, because my body is part of my business. In this case, we do some campaigns for swimwear companies. And it's also important for the brain, for mental training every day, at least to be active. And it's a good way for me to start my day. When I'm here in Monaco, I try to train every day or at least go for a quick run or walk on the beach and to breathe some air. So important for my brain and my ideas. I get a lot of ideas when I train, sometimes new creative ideas.

Olga: And do you have any specific diet?

Tom: I just focus on healthy food and try to eat fresh products. I tried the vegetarian diet for two years, then I went back to a traditional diet, but with a reduced level of meat. At home we try not to cook a lot of meat.

Olga: You're French. Does it mean that French cuisine is your favourite?

Tom: I do love French cuisine, although I have a preference for Asian food. I like simple and healthy food, fresh tomatoes with cheese, for example. I love also mixing. If I could recommend a place in Monaco, it would be Song Qi.

Olga: Do you have a lot of friends? How do you spend your spare time?

Tom: I can count my real friends on the fingers of my hands. And I like it. My friends are also entrepreneurs and sometimes we also create ideas together. I also enjoy time with family, also sports training.

Olga: What is your favourite place in Monaco?

Tom: I love Le Américan bar because of live music. I think it's very important to get some live music, good energy, relax having a nice glass of wine or whiskey. It's a place which is filled with history; it's classic and elegant. As for parties, sometimes we jump from one place to another, from Trinity to Sass, then Jimmy’z and Twiga… I'm quite excited about Amazonico, a new up and coming beautiful brand.

Olga: Do you have a dream?

Tom: To be happy with what I do every day. And maybe to try some projects in cinema.

Olga: If you have to choose between money and love, which would you choose?

Tom: I choose love. It’s a very easy choice for me.

@tomclaeren for the Ritz-Carlton New York Nomad

FROM MONACO WITH LOVE

Producer and director: Olga Taran @hello_monaco

Art director: Katya Taran @katyataran

Model / Co-producer: Tom Claeren @tomclaeren

Photographer: Tom Balco @balco

Stylist: Malgorzata Soczewka @Soczewka_malgorzata

https://www.soczewka.mc/en

Makeup: Ksenia Pinçon @ksushine_monaco

Hair Stylist: Claudio Piroso @claudiopiroso

Videographer: Alin Munteanu @truealin

Assistant: John Santos

Shirt and bow tie Tom Ford

Cufflink set Tateossian

Society Club Monte-Carlo store @societyclub

Watch Chopard

Sunglasses Opticien Createur Monaco

Aston Martin DB12, Monaco Luxury Group @monacoluxurygroup

Navy blue tuxedo Tom Ford

There is a special Thank you from HelloMonaco magazine to:

SBM, the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo and the Сafé de Paris Monte-Carlo for helping organising the photoshoot and for their warm hospitality.

@montecarlosmb @hoteldeparismc @cafedeparismc

And also The Maybourne Riviera hotel @themaybourneriviera

Our sincere gratitude to Monaco Luxury group @monacoluxurygroup for an unforgettable experience with the ASTON MARTIN DB12 and the BENTLEY FLYING SPUR and Society Club boutique in Métropole Monte-Carlo @societyclub

Aston Martin DB12, Monaco Luxury Group @monacoluxurygroup

Navy blue tuxedo Tom Ford

Shirt and bow tie Tom Ford

Cufflink set Tateossian Society Club Monte-Carlo store @societyclub

Watch Chopard

Sunglasses Opticien Createur Monaco

Aston Martin DB12, Monaco Luxury Group @monacoluxurygroup

Navy blue tuxedo Tom Ford

Shirt and bow tie Tom Ford

Cufflink set Tateossian

Society Club Monte-Carlo store @societyclub

Watch Chopard

Sunglasses Opticien Createur Monaco

Shirt

Cufflink

Society

Watch Chopard

Sunglasses Opticien Createur Monaco

Navy blue tuxedo Tom Ford

and bow tie Tom Ford

set Tateossian

Club Monte-Carlo store @societyclub

Aston Martin DB12, Monaco Luxury Group @monacoluxurygroup

Grey silk jacket Tom Ford

White cotton polo shirt and grey jeans Tom Ford Society Club Monte-Carlo store @societyclub

Watch Chopard

Sunglasses Opticien Createur Monaco

Aston Martin DB12, Monaco Luxury Group @monacoluxurygroup

Grey silk jacket Tom Ford

White cotton polo shirt and grey jeans Tom Ford Society Club Monte-Carlo store @societyclub

Watch Chopard

Sunglasses Opticien Createur Monaco

Aston Martin DB12, Monaco Luxury Group @monacoluxurygroup

Grey silk jacket Tom Ford

White cotton polo shirt and grey jeans Tom Ford

Society Club Monte-Carlo store @societyclub

Watch Chopard

Sunglasses Opticien Createur Monaco

Cotton shirt Zegna

Linen T-shirt Zegna

Cotton gabardine jeans grey Zegna

Society Club Monte-Carlo store @societyclub

Watch Chopard

Sunglasses Opticien Createur Monaco

Bentley Flying Spur, Monaco Luxury Group @monacoluxurygroup

Cotton shirt Zegna

Linen T-shirt Zegna

Cotton gabardine jeans grey Zegna

Society Club Monte-Carlo store @societyclub

Watch Chopard

Sunglasses Opticien Createur Monaco

Bentley Flying Spur, Monaco Luxury Group @monacoluxurygroup

White cotton pants Tom Ford

White cotton T-shirt Tom Ford

Navy blue cotton jacket Lardini

Society Club Monte-Carlo store @societyclub

Watch Chopard

Sunglasses Opticien Createur Monaco

Bentley Flying Spur, Monaco Luxury Group @monacoluxurygroup

Bentley Flying Spur, Monaco Luxury Group @monacoluxurygroup

White cotton pants Tom Ford

White cotton T-shirt Tom Ford

Navy blue cotton jacket Lardini

Society Club Monte-Carlo store @societyclub

Watch Chopard

Sunglasses Opticien Createur Monaco

UNUSUAL RESTAURANTS AND CAFES WE’VE VISITED: WE SUGGEST YOU VISIT TOO!

SMAKELIJK!: THE FIRST BELGIAN BRASSERIE IN MONTE-CARLO OPENS ITS DOORS

Le Méridien Beach Plaza is delighted to announce the opening of its new restaurant in Monaco: Smakelijk! A jovial, gourmet Belgian neo-brasserie that is out of the ordinary.

The first Belgian brewery in Monaco

Following the success of the new summer restaurant Muse in 2023, Le Méridien Beach Plaza opens a brand new restaurant concept in 2024, the first Belgian Brasserie in Monaco: Smakelijk!

Its surprisingly Nordic-sounding name and punctuation immediately give a clue to the character of the place, and means “Bon Appétit” in Flemish. The motto “ça goûte bien” (“it tastes good”) completes this promise of gourmet discovery that is both familiar, yet exotic.

Smakelijk's ambition is to take guests on a journey to Belgium, a country known as much for its conviviality as its specialties, to create a memorable & tasteful experience.

Smakelijk! is a refreshing culinary surprise, where the joviality of the Belgian spirit reigns.

The bold decor of an art nouveau brasserie

Facing the sea, Smakelijk! is inspired by Belgian brasseries of yesteryear, enhanced by a light art nouveau twist.

The Adjamé design studio, headed by Talissa Bachelot and Alice Calemard, took the reins of the new decor of this new gourmet venue. They take up the challenge with panache for the 3rd time at Le Méridien Beach Plaza, having already shaped the visual identity of the Beach Club “Muse” and the private apartment “915” in 2023.

Their artistic direction is oriented towards a daring style, creating a marriage between 20th-century Belgian art nouveau and the authentic identity of the brasseries. The decor is full of character: flo -

ral, whip-lined and striped prints, colours ranging from verdigris to the warmth of spices, and iconic brasserie materials such as earthenware and hammered glass. The whole is a harmonious mix and match between kitsch and contemporary, a true decoration incarnate.

When you open the door to Smakelijk!, you're immediately immersed in a warm atmosphere, with its comfortable banquettes and uniquely styled furniture, all chosen in an original way. In fact, the service consoles and the shelves with their vases are from flea markets. The curtains and fabrics for the banquettes were specially made by local upholsterers.

The brewery's vegetation has also been themed, with “stabilized flowers” symbolizing the Art Nouveau era: irises, tulips, thistles and cornflowers...

Smakelijk! offers an immersive experience in a neo-brasserie setting, boldly blending tradition and modernity.

© Le Méridien Beach Plaza

© Le Méridien Beach Plaza

Iconic Belgian gastronomic specialties

Le Méridien Beach Plaza's culinary director Laurent Colin has decided to surprise his guests. He's banking on top-quality Belgian brasserie cuisine that's varied, fresh and generous.

Together with his deputy, Executive Chef Alexandre Lamberet, he imposes sure values and an authentic cuisine, with the great classics of Belgian gastronomy.

Spaghetti with carbonade, boulets de Liège and Belgian fries, vol au vent with duck confit and foie gras, American beef tartare, tomatoes stuffed with shrimp or cod au vert and shellfish are proud ambassadors.

Pastry Chef Julien Beaulieu is also on hand to delight all food lovers with a selection of timeless Belgian desserts, including Brussels waffles, French toast cramique, Callebaut hot chocolate soufflé and café liégeois.

Smakelijk! is a true celebration of Belgian gastronomy, a convivial and exotic treat.

An ethnic collection of Belgian wines and beers

Head sommelier Jonathan Durante has created an exclusive list of Belgian wines and beers to provide a taste adventure with every sip. The menu is the fruit of meetings with passionate winemakers and brewers.

Belgian beer has been officially listed as a UNESCO intangible heritage since 2016. Now it's making its way onto refined tables, and has never been so trendy. Belgian breweries combine tradition and innovation to offer beverages that are so out of the ordinary that they have elevated the drink to the status of a national treasure. Now it's reaching out to all wine lovers who are curious to discover new vintages and crus by exploring a rich aromatic palette, with infinite nuances of flavour: bitter, floral, citrus, spicy, herbal, fruity...

The epicurean exploration of Belgium continues with a curated selection of wines with a Brussels accent. The winemakers have freed themselves from the specifications of designation of origin to offer original blends with unbridled creativity. Jonathan chose the Winery Gudule, which focuses on wines that tell a heartfelt story and inspire memorable encounters: “Soirée à l'Opéra”, “After Work en terrasse”...

As service is at the heart of the tasting experience and dishes traditionally cooked in brasseries, old-fashioned sommelier techniques have been brought up to date to be performed in front of the guests. Wine tasting will be enhanced by a traditional presentation, with service in a basket, decanting by candlelight or opening with port tongs.

Smakelijk! is a Belgian micro-brassery and wine cellar, an ode to the Belgian bon vivant.

An immersion in Belgian culture

An experience at Smakelijk! is much more than a meal: it's the promise of a Belgian escape. It's the discovery of “the flat country” that surprises with its infinite richness. Guests will find themselves immersed in the heart of a Belgian brasserie, with its mouth-watering specialties, a carefully selected collection of wines and beers and a traditional decor created with flair by the decorating duo.

Smakelijk! is the new gastronomic discovery to be discovered in Monaco.

Information & Reservations

Non-stop service every day from 12pm to 11pm

Valet parking Starters from €12

Main course from €24

Dessert from €9

Set Lunch at €26, including starter, main course, water and coffee

Smakelijk!

 Le Méridien Beach Plaza, 22, Avenue Princesse Grace, 98 000, Monaco

 Reservations: +377 93 15 78 88

 smakelijk.montecarlo@lemeridien.com

www.smakelijk-monaco.com

@smakelijk restaurant_monaco

© Le Méridien Beach Plaza

© Le Méridien Beach Plaza

© Le Méridien Beach Plaza

© Le Méridien Beach Plaza

© Le Méridien Beach Plaza

ANOÏA: A NEW CULINARY ADVENTURE IN MONACO

Monaco's gastronomic landscape is on the verge of a revolution with the opening of the Anoïa restaurant, which is located in the emblematic space formerly occupied by Café Loga, in the heart of the prestigious Boulevard des Moulins. Anoïa promises an unprecedented fusion between tradition and innovation, introducing a unique concept to Monaco: a specialty of Breton crepes and pancakes, while retaining the traditional dishes appreciated at Café Loga.

Anoïa offers an unparalleled culinary experience, from breakfast to dinner, including a friendly aperitif. Every moment of the day is an invitation to discover or rediscover authentic flavours in an exceptional setting.

An Innovative and Traditional Concept

Anoïa stands out for its audacity in mixing the authenticity of Breton crepes and pancakes with the traditional flavours that have made the Loga restaurant famous. This alliance promises a varied menu, capable of satisfying the most demanding palates, from the most traditional to the most adventurous.

Chill Time and Festive Moments

Anoïa’s innovation doesn't stop at its cuisine. The restaurant introduces “Chill Time”, a moment dedicated to relaxation and sharing, ideal for unwinding after

a day of work or for a gentle start to an evening. In addition, Anoïa positions itself as the essential place for the organization of events, birthdays, and parties, particularly suitable for children's celebrations, with dedicated entertainment and a secure space.

A Neat and Chic Decoration

Anoïa's interior has been designed to reflect the quality and elegance of its cuisine. Particular attention has been paid to every detail of the decoration, creating an atmosphere that is both chic and welcoming, which invites relaxation and indulgence. It is an ideal setting for anyone looking to enjoy an unforgettable dining experience in a well-kept environment.

An Invitation to Discover Anoïa

Anoïa invites residents and visitors to come and discover its unique culinary world. Whether for a sunny breakfast, a business lunch, a quick treat, a moment of relaxation, a romantic dinner, or to celebrate a special event, Anoïa promises moments of pleasure and conviviality.

Come live the Anoïa experience, where tradition and innovation meet to create unforgettable memories.

Located at 25 Boulevard des Moulins, in the heart of the Principality, Anoïa is the new jewel of gastronomy, offering a unique culinary experience combining the Breton and Monegasque origins of its owners.

Anoïa

 25, Bd des Moulins, 98000 Monaco

 +377 93 30 87 72

 anoia@monaco.mc

 https://anoiamonaco.com/

LE DELI ROBUCHON MONACO: THE NAME OF THE GREAT CHEF IS BACK ON THE MONACO MAP

There are certain experiences you want to live through again and again. There are certain century-long historic places you want to walk through again and again. And there are certain opportunities never to be missed out on!

Joël Robuchon's history in Monaco goes back to 2004, with the opening of his outstanding restaurant at the Metropole Hotel. His two-Michelin-starred gastronomic marvel, however, closed down in 2015 which felt like the end of a remarkable story... The opening of Le Deli Robuchon Monaco in 2024, however, marks a start of yet another chapter.

Strolling along the old buildings on Boulevard des Moulins, admiring the stained glass windows of St. Charles Church, you will certainly bump into a golden-lettered sign on a snow-white canopy. Here you will be greeted by friendly staff, inviting you to explore its marble-tabled terrace and wicker chairs.

The restaurant's interior (typically tiny for Monaco) offers a large selection of local delicacies and even sturgeon caviar. Treat yourself to its freshest of bread, croissants, home-baked buns and desserts by the local pastry chefs. If you are really hungry, then you are in the right place. The restaurant's chefs boast an unparalleled mastery of French cuisine, simple and yet refined. Breakfast or lunch, aperitif or afternoon snack — quench your hunger and thirst for beauty any time of the day.

Le Deli Robuchon is a delicatessen, a coffee shop with its fresh bakery and a traditional French cuisine restaurant with a special attention to detail, all-in-one. This is a great example of a story that does not need to be rewritten, but rather highlighted with new tastes and aromas, capturing life's every moment, never ceasing to amaze us!

Le Deli Robuchon

 3 Avenue Saint Laurent, 98000 Monaco  +377.93.25.65.66

 https://robuchonmonaco.com

 info@robuchonmonaco.com

l 8 a.m to 8 p.m, Monday to Saturday

NESPO REINTERPRETS THE GREAT FRENCH TRADITIONS WITH CHIC AND BRILLIANCE

Sharon Stone, Elton John, Rihanna, Naomi Campbell... this Nice restaurant has become a place to be for celebrities.

An incredible success story! Located in Nice centre, this former temple of Sicilian cuisine “Villa Corleone”, now re-branded, is truly favoured by the stars. Top sportsmen, Formula-1 drivers, show biz influencers, actors and celebrities jostle in this sober and chic restaurant on Boulevard Victor Hugo. Small discreet tables, white tablecloths, floral decor, cozy candlelight atmosphere at night... Everything here is effortless har-

mony, tasty and refined.

“Nespo” (short for the name of its young owner Sebastien Nespolo) focuses on quality without aiming for gastronomic distinction. “We have a special philosophy. We want to offer traditional cuisine prepared with the greatest care using high-end products. At the same time, we are not aiming at either originality, or innovation, or Michelin stars.” No revolutionary flavours or flowers on the plates here. The restaurant is reviving great French classics such as blanquette de veau, peppered beef fillet, sole meunière

or a sweet veal. You may also taste snails and frog legs, quite a rarity these days. This is all about avoiding fuss to offer simple, healthy, efficient cuisine. The result is an art that the kitchen team has mastered brilliantly.

Ensuring perfect cooking, it brings the food in its best form. Same dishes often come up on the menu, ensuring the restaurant its

Crédit:

Nespo

Crédit: Nespo

Crédit: Nespo

This is why residents of this upscale Nice district often rub shoulders with celebrities. Nespo respects everyone’s privacy in an atmosphere that is both gentle and festive. Even if this place has certainly become “the place to be”, it still feels a bit like home.

When Elton John, who doesn't eat sweet foods, asks for a sugar-free chocolate mousse, the kitchen is busy granting his wish. As for Naomi Campbell, she is a fan of “Nespo” breakfast ever since the boss reserved a table exclusively for her. It's a special time in the morning, during the non-opening hours.

As to the rapper Rihanna, who once came late in the evening, she just couldn't leave and stayed until 6 a.m.!

Among the celebrities who have tasted the restaurant's cuisine, Sharon Stone kindly posed for an immortal moment with its owner. The famous American actress promised to come back whenever she possibly could. Following her example, more and more people are sharing the address of this classy and trendy place. Its meteoric rise now makes the restaurant one of the trendiest French Riviera establishments.

Nespo

 48, Bd Victor Hugo, Nice  www.nespo-restaurant.com

 06 0381 1481

Open from Tuesday to Saturday lunch and dinner and Sunday evening.

solid clientele of regulars.

Sébastien Nespolo, the owner of the restaurant, with Sir Elton John Sharon Stone and Sébastien Nespolo

Rihanna and ASAP Rocky

Crédit: Nespo

Crédit: Nespo

Crédit: Nespo

Crédit: Nespo

MONACO MAKES HISTORY:

Masha Borzenko Wins First Gold Medal in National Championships

By Helena Litvak

HelloMonaco has had the unique opportunity to speak with Masha Borzenko, a 16-yearsold rhythmic gymnastics star born and raised in Monaco. Masha’s journey into gymnastics has been nothing short of inspiring, and we’re excited to hear about her remarkable victory at the French National 16/17 years Championship in Villeneuve-d’Ascq last January. Making history, Masha became the first gymnast from Monaco to win a gold medal at the French Nationals.

We’ll also have the pleasure of speaking with her main coach, Corinne Grison, who has played a key role in Masha’s growth and success. Let’s dive into the interview and learn more about Masha’s incredible journey in the world of rhythmic gymnastics.

Photo Cybile

Hello Monaco: Masha, could you walk us through your journey into gymnastics and what made you fall in love with the sport?

Masha: Of course! When I was younger, I experimented with various sports, but it was when my Mom introduced me to a gymnastics club here in Monaco that everything changed. Initially, it was just a hobby, but as I immersed myself in the training process, I found myself falling in love with it. Over time, it blossomed into a true passion.

: Masha, could you share with us the challenges you faced at the beginning of your gymnastics journey and how you overcame them?

Masha: Absolutely. In 2020, I faced challenges that led to errors during the championship, resulting in a 5th place finish. Then, in 2021, despite my hard work, the championship was cancelled due to the pandemic. Following that, in 2022, I broke my leg just two months before the national competition. The road to recovery was challenging, and I had only about two weeks to train and prepare myself, ultimately achieving a 4th place finish. However, this year, I’m happy to share that I finally achieved my goal by winning 1st place in two routines at the National Championship: one with the ball and one with clubs.

: Masha, could you please tell us about your first coach and who your favourite coach is now?

Masha: Certainly! My first and current coach is Corinne Grison. Corinne was the first person who recognized my potential and believed in me, encouraging me to pursue gymnastics. She has been both a mentor and a coach to me. In addition to Corinne, I am also grateful for the guidance and support of secondary coaches Maria Vorobieva and Manon Boinier. Since my very first day at Monaco Gymnastic Rhythmic club, I’ve been filled with endless gratitude for the club, its trainers, and the unique opportunities it has provided me to learn and compete.

: Masha, you’ve mentioned your mentors and coaches who have played significant roles in your journey. Could you also share if there was anyone outside of gymnastics who has influenced you significantly?

Masha: Yes, my oldest brother has been a huge influence on me. He’s a professional swimmer, and witnessing his dedi -

cation and hard work in his sport has inspired me to push myself in gymnastics and in life. His support and encouragement mean a lot to me, and I’m grateful to have him as a source of motivation. Additionally, my Mom’s constant support and love are incredible. She worries even more than I do sometimes, but it’s that

unconditional support that keeps me going. Both my parents have athletic backgrounds — my Dad used to do rowing, and my Mom was a swimmer — which definitely influences and motivates me.

: It sounds like athleticism runs in the family. Masha, could you describe your

Photo : FBI

training routine leading up to major competitions?

Masha: Sure. Basically, I have training sessions of 3–4 hours, 5 or 6 times per week. Before competitions, I have to skip school and train twice per day. During vacation time, I train for 8 hours per day.

: Alongside your busy training schedule, do you also follow any specific rules or routines to maintain your fitness and health?

Masha: Definitely! I try to maintain a healthy diet and stick to a good sleeping schedule, but I have to admit, I don’t always succeed. Balancing academics and training requires a lot of dedication, so I do my best to manage my time effectively and prioritize my studies.

: How do you balance your academics with your gymnastics training?

Masha: In Monaco, there is a special class for athletes at Lycée Albert Ier. We have a

special schedule with more time for training and receive extra support from teachers in case we are missing classes during competitions. Monaco is a unique place for athletes, and I feel very fortunate to have been born and raised here, receiving support in pursuing my true passion for rhythmic gymnastics.

: How does your family celebrate your achievements in gymnastics?

Masha: It’s very simple here. If I return without a medal, we are all sad, but if I win, everybody is happy.

Now, we have a few questions for Masha’s main coach, Corinne Grison. With her sharp eye for talent and commitment to coaching, Corinne has played a crucial role in shaping Masha’s gymnastics career.

: Corinne, how did you recognize Masha’s great potential from the very beginning?

Corinne Grison (Masha’s Coach): When I first saw Masha, I could feel her inspiration and deep passion for gymnastics. Masha was and is a very hardworking and disciplined gymnast.

: Corinne, how does Monaco Gymnastic Rhythmic Club feel about Masha’s gold medal at the national championship?

Corinne: It’s incredibly emotional for me. Witnessing Masha’s dedication and hard work culminating in a gold medal is a moment of immense pride and joy for the entire club.

: Masha, for the final question: what are your future goals in gymnastics and beyond?

Masha: I aspire to continue competing and training, proudly representing Monaco in upcoming competitions.

: Thank you, Masha, for sharing your inspiring journey with us today. Your dedication is truly admirable, and we wish you the best as you continue to shine in gymnastics and represent Monaco proudly on the international stage.

Photo : FBI

Photo : Anh Viet Chau

Photo Anh Viet Chau

3 Monaco-based eco-projects that can change the world

By Natalia Bezruk

Monaco is consistently true to its reputation of one of the most environmentally friendly cities on the planet. By 2030, the Monaco government is planning to halve carbon dioxide emissions and reduce single-use plastic waste to zero, making the Principality carbon neutral by 2050. Its green policy is internationally promoted by Prince Albert II. At the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Dubai, the Head of Monaco urged state leaders to take action in preserving the environment.

One can easily find a bike sharing station in various districts of Monaco.

Photo : Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

In 2004, the Monaco company Venturi made a splash introducing the world’s first mass-produced two-seater electric sports car, the Fétish. In 2009, Monaco became a leader in promoting electromobility. Its urban transport system was universally upgraded: fully electric buses now run in the Principality’s streets; Mobee, a popular car sharing service, features exclusively electric Tesla, Twizy and Peugeot. A number of charging stations are available for electric car owners all across Monaco.

The EVER Monaco international exhibition is the place to be for eco-friendly vehicles. Energy companies involved in carbon transport development, promoting green policies worldwide, regularly introduce their premieres here. These

environmentally friendly sensations are largely broadcast by the media.

In spring, as part of Ocean Week, Monaco is hosting a major environmental symposium, bringing together industry trend setters. In summer, luxury boats powered by alternative engines compete for the exciting Energy Boat Challenge.

For local residents, cycling from home to work or to a restaurant is not just fun, but a personal contribution to preserving the Mediterranean. Bike sharing stations and special paths are provided in various parts of the city.

Local eco-friendly projects are regularly recognized by international institutions. The Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel was awarded a prestigious Green Globe Gold certificate for pre -

serving the Mediterranean coast, protecting the bird population and using solar panels.

And last but not least, in 2023, even outdoor Christmas decorations in 2023 were made from recyclable materials.

So, which Monaco-based projects are particularly likely to change our consumption habits?

PORTIER, A NEW ECO-AREA

By 2025, the Principality will have significantly changed its appearance.

The new Portier area featuring residential buildings and offices with parking too plus an inland port, a park and a promenade, will not only add six hectares to Monaco’s territory, but will also be a reference in terms of eco-friendly urban design. This grandiose construction project is estimated at 2 billion euros.

The Monaco authorities, alongside with the Bouygues group, have released its technical description. True to its environmental commitments, it respects the protected coastal areas of Larvotto and the Spélugue coral reef, in addition to ensuring constant monitoring of water turbidity and noise levels. Following its progress, certain animal and plant species lost their habitats and were therefore relocated. To reduce the water turbidity, special filters were installed on the submarines navigating in the protected areas.

40 % of energy for this new ecologically clean area is produced by renewable sources. According to the project, solar panels bring 80 % of the power for lighting the streets, whilst ocean energy ensures both cooling and heating.

The lush greenery of its parks and squares will bring lots of oxygen and a feeling of one-on-one with nature for the Portier homeowners and guests. The new area will be perfectly suited for pedestrians and cyclists. A one-kilometer bike path is designed to connect the artificial peninsula to Larvotto Beach.

The ambitious Portier project has truly become a reference in terms of sustainable and forward-thinking urban planning. Internationally acclaimed, it is awarded a HQE Aménagement certificate recognizing sustainable development policies and BREEAM for respecting eco-friendly construction standards.

Prince Albert II of Monaco on the opening day of events at COP28 in Dubai in December, 2023

© Axel Bastello / Palais princier

A UNIQUE BIOFUEL

This kind of innovation is set to change the world. A biofuel from Monaco is made exclusively from waste (tires, oil and plastic) and does not contain diesel. Monaco-based Romano Energy has developed a unique formula helping diesel cars reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 90 %. With no difference in engine performance, car drivers appreciate the noticeable savings. Top up your car with this innovative fuel at La Condamine gas station.

ZERO GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS CITY

At the 2020 Climate Ambition Summit, Prince Albert II made a statement on reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Monaco. As part of the initiative, the Principality of Monaco signed the National Energy Transition Pact, inviting companies and individuals to contribute to preserving the environment. This is a multi-step strategy. By 2030, the amount of carbon dioxide polluting the atmosphere will have been reduced by 55 %, and in 2050, Monaco will become carbon neutral.

The Principality’s main environmental goals are preserving biodiversity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and respecting the urban infrastructure sustainable development policy. We may

all make a contribution to protecting our planet by such routine gestures as waste sorting, conscious consumption, the use of alternative energy sources and using electric transport.

Prince Albert II of Monaco attends the EVER Monaco international salon in May, 2023

Try biofuel from Monaco at the Romano Energy gas station in Boulevard Charles-III.

Photo : Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

© Axel Bastello / Palais princier

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

Want to Live Your Best Life?

MEET GAVIN SHARPE

By Helena Litvak

Gavin Sharpe's career journey has been full of surprises. It led him from a successful chapter as a lawyer to co-founding a successful recruitment company and earning recognition for his entrepreneurial ventures to his current role as a respected coach and therapist. His transition wasn't planned; it evolved naturally from his desire to help others navigate life's challenges and be the best version of himself. It was his innate drive to make a meaningful impact on people's lives that guided him to live his best life.

Gavin's approach to personal development is straightforward: he works closely with individuals to uncover their true potential. Whether he's guiding high-profile personalities through relationship challenges, career transitions or assisting organizations in talent management, Gavin's philosophy centres on understanding each person's values and passions. Through thoughtful questioning and a thorough exploration of what success means to his clients, Gavin empowers them to lead fulfilling lives. Join us to discover the transformative power of coaching and therapy.

Hello Monaco: Could you share your personal journey from your previous career as a lawyer and entrepreneur to becoming a successful coach and therapist?

Gavin: Well, my career path has been quite unexpected, to be honest. I initially pursued law because my parents encouraged me, thinking it was a stable profession. After five years invested in law school and training, I realized it wasn't fulfilling for me. I explored media law for a while, hoping for a change, but still felt unfulfilled.

Then, I co-founded an international recruitment business, which became the market leader in our sector, specializing in placing lawyers in prestigious firms, even setting up offices for major Wall Street firms in London.

While in that role, I found myself unofficially providing coaching and consultan -

cy to individuals navigating major career decisions. Although we received recognition in The Sunday Times in the U.K. and won numerous industry awards, I realized it wasn't the life balance I wanted. I knew I needed a change. I sold my shares back to the business and began a four-year master's program in integrative psychotherapy and followed that with an executive coaching diploma. It's been quite a journey, but I've found my passion in helping individuals, couples and companies flourish.

: What are some common reasons why successful people seek the guidance of a coach?

Gavin: Successful individuals want to perform at their highest level. Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey, and Barack Obama all had coaches. Coaching focuses on identifying and working with someone's strengths and making them stronger. It's about uncovering blind spots and limiting assumptions that hinder progress and finding ways to unlock potential.

: How do you help clients uncover and address their blind spots and limiting assumptions during sessions?

Gavin: Limiting beliefs are the stories we tell ourselves about who we are and that hold us back from becoming who we are meant to be. They are often subconscious. I might believe I am not intelligent enough. Perhaps at school, I wasn’t top of the class. Over time that belief becomes the lens through which I see life and it holds me back from achieving my potential. I work with that person to iden -

tify and remove such limiting assumptions. These blind spots are like driving your car at night without the lights on. Why would you do that?

: Gavin, when a client comes to you for the first time, how do you approach determining if you're the right person to help them?

Gavin: When someone comes to me, I start by asking two questions: What would you like to achieve? Am I the right person to help you? What I do is an investment in time and money. I would rather people remember me as the guy who did not take their money than the one who did and achieved nothing.

: Gavin, you mentioned being referred to as the “corporate fixer”. Could you elaborate on how you view this term and how it aligns with your coaching philosophy?

Gavin: I worked recently with a company whose board was dysfunctional. I was able to uncover its unhealthy dynamics. In that sense, I fixed the problem. It was the client that called me their corporate fixer.

But I am a coach, not a magician. You can’t coach a poor performer to be a star and you can’t change a corporate culture overnight. I have mixed feelings about that term. I don't like the idea of “fixing” people because it implies they're broken. Aren’t we all a little broken?

: And what is the difference for people who don't see the difference between therapy and coaching?

Gavin: It's a great question. Typically, therapy is more focused with processing the past and executive coaching is more about setting and achieving goals for the future. However, what too many professionals don’t appreciate is the overlap between these two disciplines. In my executive coaching work, for example, understanding a client's past is crucial because it impacts their present behavior. While I may touch upon these issues in coaching, I also recognize when it's necessary to refer clients to therapy for deeper healing and processing. Ultimately, both therapy and coaching are about helping individuals grow and overcome challenges, but they approach it from different perspectives.

: How do you keep client information private while still addressing the public interest, especially for clients with public visibility?

Gavin: Confidentiality is a top priority for my clients, especially in Monaco. I highly value it and never discuss names whether my client is a top racing driver or bil -

lionaire businessman. Most clients come through private recommendations. Sometimes, we sign non-disclosure agreements at the start of our relationship to ensure their comfort.

: What challenges do individuals in Monaco face when seeking personal or professional development, and how do you address these challenges in your coaching practice?

Gavin: Most people who live here are already successful. I invite my clients to leave their egos at the door. We’re all trying to figure out this thing called life. We’re all equal whether we live in Monaco or Mozambique. In Monaco, there are numerous temptations, especially given the wealth in this area. I've also studied financial disorders, so understanding people's relationship with money is important here.

: Gavin, what are your future goals? Do you see yourself continuing your work in Monaco, and what do you like most about living here?

G avin: For the foreseeable future, I plan to stay in Monaco. I enjoy the lively atmosphere and the sense of safety in this community. Moreover, I admire HSH Prince Albert II's dedication to environmental concerns. I want to continue with my monthly Wellbeing Window show on Riviera Radio. I am in discussions with another entrepreneur to develop the coaching side of the business into a pioneering new sector, so watch this space! There's meaningful work to be done here, both in my coaching practice and in wellbeing. I'm committed to making a positive difference in the lives of those I work with.

I believe we all have the potential to live the life that we were born to lead. In my experience, we spend our whole life trying to answer one existential question. “What was I put on earth to do?” Stated another way, “What makes my heart sing?” I am blessed in my work. I get to sit alongside others and help them sing.

www.gavin-sharpe.com (coaching)

www.rivierawellbeing.com (therapy)

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

A Devastating Christmas for the young HONORÉ GRIMALDI, the future first Prince of Monaco

By Xania Keane

Every year on Christmas Eve, a young Prince Honoré II would smile as he celebrated his birthday. But in the year 1604, as fragrant pine trees were being trimmed across Monaco and families were carefully unwrapping their colourful clay nativity figures to put on display before attending mass on Christmas Eve, seven-year-old Prince Honoré was experiencing a very difficult preface to his birthday…

TRANSFORMING THE PRINCELY PALACE INTO WHAT IT IS TODAY

Today, Prince Honoré II is known for his work in transforming the Princely Palace from its dark, medieval appearance to a bright, Italian Renaissance style. Over a span of thirty years, the Prince worked tirelessly in turning the sombre fortress into a beautiful Palace fit for a prince. He commissioned architect Jacques Catone to soften its grim fortified appearance. He ordered the enlargement of the Palace with the construction of two wings and the creation of the now-famous Grand Apartments. He had the gallery in the upper floor of the Apartments decorated with frescoes depicting the story of Hercules. He built an intriguing cabinet of curiosities, a palace chapel dedicated to St. John the Baptist, a French garden, a bathhouse and an aviary.

Prince Honoré had a keen eye for interior decoration. He embellished and redecorated the Palace from top to bottom by bringing porcelain, fine furniture, silverware and tapestries into the transformed Royal home. He was also an avid art collector and acquired paintings by Titian, Dürer, Raphael, Rubens and Michelangelo. His reputation as a highly educated patron of the arts quickly spread far and wide.

Le Prince Honoré II, oil on canvas, 1651 by Philippe de Champaigne

Photo: Valentin Breton for Hello Monaco

Nowadays, Rue Comte Félix Gastaldi where Lord Hercule was killed looks quite nice.

But Prince Honoré’s grandeur, lavish taste and lasting legacy could not have happened without tragedy first striking his family right before his seventh birthday.

LORD HERCULE IS BRUTALLY MURDERED, MAKING HONORÉ II AN ORPHAN

Honoré II was born on 24th December 1597, the son of Hercule, Lord of Monaco and Maria Landi. On 21st November 1604, Honoré’s father was brutally murdered. At 15 rue du Milieu (today rue du Comte Félix Gastaldi) a group of men pounced on Lord Hercule, stabbing him forty times. They dumped his body into the Mediterranean sea, but it was quickly found the next day. Honoré and his two sisters were thus immediately orphaned. Their mother, Maria, had died during childbirth five years earlier.

Finding the killer was no easy feat. Lord Hercule was an allegedly tyrannical womanizer, making enemies of the husbands whose wives he courted. Five days after his death, several people were arrested. The arrested group swiftly accused a man named Stefano Boccone, who worked as a notary, and had the alleged goal of handing Monaco over to Savoy.

News of the murder spread like wildfire and ships from France, Genoa and Spain descended into Monaco’s port, with sails ominously billowing in the autumn winds. Knowing that Monaco was suddenly and precariously without a leader, even the Duke of Savoy advanced his troops towards La Turbie.

SAVED BY THE PEOPLE OF MONACO

As various countries plotted to take over Monaco, the local people quickly assembled and ensured that Monaco was not up for grabs. Monegasques stormed the castle to protect the three young children of Hercule and Maria.

They bravely announced to all foreign intruders that young Honoré Grimaldi was their new Lord. But because he was only a child, his uncle, Prince Federico Landi of Valdetare, took an oath of loyalty to his young nephew.

Unfortunately, Landi was an ally of Spain and allowed Monaco to be occupied by Spanish troops just one year later, in 1605. Monegasques were prohibited from carrying arms and the young Prince Honoré and his siblings were moved to Milan. The Council of Monaco tried to limit Spanish power, but the occupation lasted an entire decade.

The Hercule Gallery and the Palantine Chapel of the Princely Palace

Photo: Jean Ronin for Hello Monaco

THE FIRST PRINCE OF MONACO

In 1612, a simple turn of phrase altered the future of Monaco forever. Honoré II was officially addressed as “Serene Prince” by the Spanish king. Why did the King address Honoré as “Prince”? Perhaps he was just trying to keep Honoré happy as Spanish troops were occupying Monaco at the time. But whatever the reason, the term stuck and Monaco was recognized as a Principality for the first time.

In spite of the King of Spain’s kind words, Honoré rebelled against the Spanish presence in Monaco. He knew that Monaco needed the protection of another power and he turned to France. In 1641, heavily supported by the French, he attacked the Spanish garrison and expelled the Spanish, declaring “the glorious liberty of Monaco”. Because of his actions, Honoré II was declared a hero by the people of Monaco.

PRINCE JACQUES BEARS HIS NAME…

Today, Honoré II lives on via young Hereditary Prince Jacques, whose middle name is ‘Honoré’. The title of nine-year old Prince Jacques is ‘Marquis des Baux’, referring to the area surrounding the village of Les Baux-de-Provence (located 250 kilometres west of Monaco) which was donated to Prince Honoré II during the Treaty of Péronne. This title is bestowed to all the hereditary princes of Monaco from the day they are born until the birth of their heir. Prince Albert II kept the title of Marquis des Baux from his birth in 1958 until the birth of his son.

Christmas Eve, when a warm, festive atmosphere overtakes the Principality, not many people are thinking of Prince Honoré II. He was born over four centuries ago but his legacy lives on in many ways: in the bricks and mortar of the Princely Palace, in the enlightened way Monaco continues to celebrate the arts, and as the reason Monaco is still referred to as “The Principality of Monaco”.

Prince Albert II of Monaco and Jacques, Hereditary Prince of Monaco, Marquis of Baux, during the Monaco National Day celebration in 2023

Valentin Breton for Hello Monaco

From 26 March 2024 the State Apartments are reopen for visits.

Photo: Jean Ronin for Hello Monaco

Photo: Jean Ronin for Hello Monaco

JUST ENJOY & MORE

You wish to experience unique activities in Monaco, spend time with good friends, discover incredible places, meet like-minded people, enjoy the Principality to the full… Join CREM and adopt a new way of life. In an elegant, cosy and welcoming space of 220m2, ideally situated on the Carré d’Or, CREM is the Foreign Residents’ Club of Monaco. The club is truly a place to exchange and share, offering members a unique and unparalleled experience of integration into Monegasque life.

To become a member of CREM is to choose to enjoy Monaco, and much more…

LE CLUB DES RÉSIDENTS ÉTRANGERS DE MONACO

HISTORY OF THE MONTE-CARLO RALLY “AND ALL THAT JAZZ”

By Justin Brisk

You get the picture when the rally driver voted the second greatest of all time was so intimidated by the harsh conditions of the Monte-Carlo Rally, he gave up racing it. He had tried and almost succeeded but never actually won the jewel in the crown of all rallies. Scottish driver Colin McRae, a World Champion rally driver was also once voted the second greatest rally driver in history after Sébastien Loeb and he so wanted to win the Monte-Carlo Rally but never could. This is what he had to say:

“I don’t think we should be expected to drive flat out in the conditions that Monte-Carlo provides… In this day and age I think people would think you were crazy driving at 100mph on a mountainside with snow and ice on slick tyres”.

THE UNPREDICTABLE MONTE-CARLO RALLY CONDITIONS TEST THE GREATEST OF THE WORLD’S ACES

Some of the characteristics of the Rallye Monte-Carlo in its early days were tough weather and road conditions, because in the winter time on special stages there were always snow and ice combined with dry asphalt in the area of Monte-Carlo and southeast France, especially in the mountains around the city. These features turned Rally MonteCarlo into an unpredictable and exciting event, with a challenging tyre-gamble for every driver, so the winner can’t be predicted until the final stages.

After all these years, the cars remain very diversified, and even with climate-change, the conditions of modern Rallye Monte-Carlo are as capricious as fifty or a hundred years before, and that makes this event so magical and beloved among drivers and spectators alike.

A LITTLE HISTORY

The word ‘rally’ comes from the French word ‘rallier’ — to gather or congregate. For the first time

this term, firmly established in the everyday life of modern sports, appeared in 1911 at a competition in Monaco held by the Monaco Automobile Club by order of Prince Albert I. Two men are today considered to have that distinction be the creators of the Monte-Carlo Rally with the enthusiastic support of Prince Albert I. They were Gabriel Vialon and Antony Noghès. Yes it’s that name Noghès again also famous for his role in creating the Monte-Carlo Grand Prix in 1929.

But you would be surprised in what form the Rally originally took shape. It is a miracle it survived! It was conceived as a “Concentration Rally” where talented car enthusiasts would converge on Monte-Carlo from cities all over Europe and beyond. In January 1911, 23 crews started from eleven different points in Europe, and only fifteen reached the finish line.

That and how it scored the winner almost sunk it in the first year. A certain Captain Karl Friedrich Von Esmarch, a German, was much aggrieved, having thought he had won this first Monte-Carlo Rally. On the basis of starting from Berlin he was the first to arrive at Monaco with the best average of 22,6 km/h. His “quasi-win” was over-turned in favour of French driver Henry Rougier who won via a point-scoring system capable of confusing Einstein. So Henri Rougier, a racing driver, a cyclist, an airplane pilot and a representative of the French car manufacturer Turcat-Méry, made history as the first winner of the Monte-Carlo Rally.

The 2024 Monte-Carlo Rally

Le Buire 50 Hp automobile, the 1st Monte-Carlo Rally participant, before starting from Paris in January, 1911

© ACM / Olivier Caenen Alamy.com

So what was the bewildering 1911 Scoring System?

Points Attribution:

l 1 point per km/h with a ceiling of 25 km/h

l 1 point for each 100 km covered

l 2 points per passenger transported, including the mechanic, excluding the driver

l 0 to 10 points for the degree of comfort of the transported people, the luggage being an element of appreciation!

l 0 to 10 points for the elegance of car

l 0 to 10 points depending on the state of the frame on arrival

l 0 to 10 points depending on the aesthetic appreciation of the body.

In any case the Rally not only survived but thrived. The second year saw the entrants virtually quadruple from 1911’s original 23 entrants.

There has always been a tussle between the founding concept of a “Concentration Rally” from European cities including places as far apart as Minsk, Warsaw and Glasgow versus rally drivers winning breathtaking stages together with a race-ending thriller over mountain passes at the footsteps of Monaco. The Concentration Run was still going in the 80s, but the racing thriller had to win out. The search for snow and varied terrain also takes “the thriller” to the high Alps often involving Gap and Valence to encompass 14 mountain passes to navigate along 17 special stages across five French departments.

FAMED CARS AND DRIVERS

At the beginning the Monte-Carlo Rally did not attract the most famous carmakers, so it was some littleknown brands who used to win (such as the French Turcat-Méry). Later, the name recognition of the Monte-Carlo Rally became so powerful that Motor Car manufacturers will do anything to win it to promote the supremacy of their brands. In the early 1960s, such brands as Saab, Mini, Porsche, Lancia, etc. started taking part in the competition.

So when the modern era of the Monte-Carlo Rally began in 1962 Erik Carlsson, nicknamed “Mr. Saab” for his exclusive use of Saab cars, secured consecutive wins in 1962 and 1963. In 1964, the legendary Mini Cooper, driven by Paddy Hopkirk, triumphed, and the following year saw a repeat of the Mini’s prow-

The participants of the 8th Monte-Carlo Rally in 1929

From “Monaco dans sa splendeur” (Raoul Solar, Editeur à Monaco) book

From “Monaco dans sa splendeur” (Raoul Solar, Editeur à Monaco) book

ess with another victory by Timo Mäkinen. Then came the victory era for Mini Cooper, though in 1966 another scandal broke out, this time a technical one. The first four finishers (three of them driving Mini Coopers) were disqualified for using quartz iodine incandescent lamps in the headlights which were not allowed by regulations. The first place suddenly passed to the fifth-place finisher Pauli Toivonen driving Citroën. Prince Rainier III of Monaco was annoyed by the judges’ decision and promised to cancel the rally forever (fortunately, later he changed his mind).

The advent of the World Rally Championship created by the FIA in 1973 marked a significant milestone for the Monte-Carlo Rally that became the WRC first race. Sandro Munari’s domination followed, with his Lancia Stratos HF securing three consecutive wins from 1975 to 1977. Walter Röhrl’s era began in 1980. He was the first pilot to win 4 world-class rallies in 4 different cars: Fiat, Opel, Lancia, Audi.

The late 1990s and early 2000s were successful for Japanese manufacturers: from 1997 to 2002, they were Mitsubishi, Subaru

and Toyota who won the Monte-Carlo Rally. Tommi Mäkinen marked his presence in a Mitsubishi with three consecutive victories in the period 1997 to 2001 (1999, 2000, 2001) ... winning in 2002 also with a Subaru Impreza.

Sébastien Loeb’s reign began in 2003, amassing seven wins in a Citroёn, setting a new record. Sébastien Ogier followed suit in 2014, clinching multiple victories with different teams. He has become the second pilot (after Walter Röhrl) who would win the Monte-Carlo Rally in 4 different cars — Volkswagen, Ford, Citroën and Toyota.

THE TWO SÉBS

Many consider Sébastien Loeb, the French race-car driver as the greatest rally racer of all time, having won a record nine World Rally Championship (WRC) titles (2004–2012) and second only to Ogier for Monte-Carlo Rally wins. In Monte-Carlo Ogier formally has the edge but you decide which of the

two emerges as the greatest. It’s a close thing.

So what happened in 2022 when “the two Sébs” came head to head..? With two stages of the rally to go, Ogier had a lead of 24.6s. The champagne was making its way towards the ice. This one was as good as in the bag. That was until the Pirelli PZero tyre on the front-left of the Frenchman’s car was emptied of air. Loeb, catapulted back into the lead again, would start the final test with 9.5s in hand. The fairy tale was back on.

In just over eight and a half minutes it was delivered. Monaco’s harbour was rocked by the cheer that went up as Loeb crossed the line. Ogier and Toyota in contrast were stunned…

The 47-year-old Sébastien Loeb not only won his 80th WRC victory but also became the oldest World Rally Championship stage winner in history. Loeb’s codriver, Frenchwoman Isabelle Galmiche, became the first female codriver in 25 years to win a WRC race. So the leg -

Swede Eric Carlsson and Gunnar Palm, winners of the 32th Monte-Carlo Rally, receiving their prize in the presence of Prince Rainier III of Monaco and Princess Grace of Monaco in 1963

Alamy.com

endary pilot and the math teacher taught a lesson to their rivals, most of whom are old enough to be their sons…

BIGGEST WINNERS OF THE MONTE-CARLO RALLY AND OTHER STARS

But don’t discount Sébastien Ogier who won the Monegasque title for the ninth time in 2023. A record. This put the eight-time world champion ahead of Sébastien Loeb with his eight victories in Monaco.

Walter Röhrl from Germany, Tommi Mäkinen from Finland (both with four victories to their name), Didier Auriol from France and Carlos Sainz from Spain (three wins each) have also carved their names on this storied trophy.

The Monte-Carlo Rally, the world’s oldest and most renowned rally race, has not only left its mark on the world of motorsport but also etched itself into popular culture, business, and, of course, cinema with lavish all-star films like ‘A Man and a Woman’ (1966), ‘Monte-Carlo or Bust!’ (1969) with

line

Sébastien Loeb and Isabelle Galmiche celebrating their victory in the 90th Monte-Carlo Rally in 2022

Starting

of the 90th Monte-Carlo Rally at the iconic Place de Casino in 2022

© Hello Monaco

©

ACM / Jean-Marc Follete

its working title ‘The Monte-Carlo Rally and All That Jazz’ and ‘Herbie Goes to MonteCarlo’ (1977).

Over the years, many famous persons competed in the Monte-Carlo Rally. Among them are the actor Jean-Louis Trintignant, the rock star Johnny Hallyday, the twotime Olympic champion in alpine skiing Henri Oreiller, the most famous French stuntman Remy Julien, who performed in Fantomas and James Bond movies, as

well as Daniel Ducruet, father of Louis and Pauline Ducruet.

MONTE-CARLO RALLY 2024: NEUVILLE DENIES OGIER’S 10TH VICTORY IN EPIC SHOWDOWN

The 92nd Monte-Carlo Rally unfolded with high expectations of Sébastien Ogier clinching his 10th win, setting

the stage for an intense battle among topnotch rally drivers.

In the unfolding drama of the Rally, Thierry Neuville emerged as 2024’s dominant force, denying Ogier the coveted 10th win. Despite Neuville facing an engine issue and Ogier staging a spirited comeback, the Belgian driver showcased resilience, outclassing Ogier in the decisive Stage 14 and securing a substantial lead.

Neuville’s stellar performance earned him the maximum 30 points, including bonus Power Stage points, propelling him into the 2024 championship lead. Ogier, now turned 40 years old, while displaying a valiant effort, conceded defeat in the face of Neuville’s remarkable showing.

One more Monte-Carlo Rally win for Ogier might have raised a challenge to Sébastien Loeb’s GOAT standing. Loeb himself has turned 50 in 2024. Is time running out for Ogier to be the definitive GOAT?

Belgian Thierry Neuville and Martijn Wydaeghe celebrate their victory in the 92nd Monte-Carlo Rally, at Place du Casino in Monaco, in 2024. The French Sébastien Ogier is on the left.

© ACM / Jean-Marc Follete

FAMED MONEGASQUE WINNERS

Did you know that the Monte-Carlo Rally has been won by one of the most famous Monegasque names in motor history? You will be able to guess when I tell you he also is a Monegasque winner of the most famous Grand Prix race in the world … the Monaco Grand Prix. Yes, you guessed it, Louis Chiron who set three records with one Monte-Carlo Rally victory.

Louis Chiron who won in 1954 was not only the first Monegasque winner, but also the oldest winner aged 54, and the first former winner of the Monaco Grand Prix to win Rallye Monte-Carlo. Three-in-one!

Monegasques have also distinguished themselves in the modern era of the Monte-Carlo Rally breaking records as well as in the World Rally Championship. Remember this name, it is Daniel Elena. This is a name not so often sung from the rooftops as Louis Chiron or Charles Leclerc for that matter but he has excelled at the very apex of Rally Racing.

Monaco’s own Daniel Elena also known as “Danos” was Sébastien Loeb’s faithful copilot for his seven wins in the “Monte”, between 2003 and 2013. Between Monegasque Danos and Sébastien Loeb, the pair have also won the World Rally Championship (WRC) nine times with Citroën, later competing with Hyundai. Their 79 wins together make Danos the co-driver with the most victories in the history of the WRC.

Bust of Louis Chiron in Monaco

The 2024 Monte-Carlo Rally

© ACM

/ Julien Perez Alonso

© Hello Monaco

HANDBALL: how a Danish game gained popularity in Monaco

By Natalia Bezruk

ASM Handball is a dynamically developing sports club from the Principality of Monaco. It is living proof that sports unites not only in terms of trophy pursuit,but also in an effort to make our world a better place. Today we will tell you how this Scandinavian competition has taken root on the Mediterranean coast, discuss the team’s plans with its head coach and learn how this sports club came to become a real family.

SOME OF HANDBALL’S HISTORY

Handball in its current version was invented in Denmark at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. The new sports Teams came as an alternative to football in winter. According to its rules, a player has the right to hold the ball for no longer than three seconds. He can then make a maximum of three steps, either scoring a goal, hitting the floor or passing it on

to another player. All this makes the game incredibly dynamic and spectacular. The number of players per team is limited to seven. The results are extremely easy to determine: the team that scores most goals is the winner.

Handball owes its popularity around the world to Germany. Its first games for the national Cup took place back in 1920. Since 1926, handball went officially global, with the International Handball Federation (IHF) created in 1946. As for the Olympics, it was first

© AS Monaco Handball

included in their program in 1936, won by a German team.

In 1972, men’s handball finally became part of the most prestigious world competition. Four years later, women’s teams joined in.

According to bookmakers, this game is very much favoured by sports betting fans. They eagerly watch the matches, betting on their favourite teams.

HANDBALL IN MONACO

The new sports took off in the Principality in the early 1960s. Its first club was founded by a PE teacher Robert Grüter, its future president Charles Lorenzi, vice-president Jean Heyraud, secretary Jean-Jacques Philips and treasurer Christian Buckingham.

Over time, the ASM Handball’s reputation spread both regionally and nationally. In 1967–1968, the Monegasques eventually joined a National Division for the first time. Ten years later, the team won the title of French vicechampion in the third National Division, stepping up to join the second Division.

In the mid-1980s, the Monaco handball players reached the Pre-Federal rating, eventually dropping back to the national level in 1989. In 1991–1992, the club organized its first major home tournament, hosting handball players from Italy, Switzerland, Germany and France. Getting into the First Division in the 2004 and 2006 seasons, marked another great success for the team. At the same time, the handball club joined the AS Monaco association, bringing together some 23 sports disciplines.

In 2006, the Monaco Handball Federation was created under the red and white flag, joining the European (EHF) and eventually the International Handball Federation. In September 2010, the Principality hosted the first Champions Cup, organized by the French Handball League. For another two years, every start to the season, Stade Louis II invited the best handball players to take part in a demonstration tournament.

THE NEW ERA

Following a few years of preparation and discussions, the Monaco Handball Federation has signed an agreement with the Italian and French counterparts for

spreading handball in the Principality and neighbouring cities. The Levant 06 project brought together in Monaco some ten clubs from La Turbie and Ventimiglia. The players now have a common mission of popularizing their favourite sport, holding dozens of demonstration training sessions and charity events. Hand Fit training is thus offered for nursing homes, a lightweight form of handball aiming to improve overall health and combat sedentary lifestyle-related conditions.

MONACO HANDBALL NEWS

Two highly performing athletes have joined the club this summer: a promising central midfielder Guillaume Didierjean from the Nice junior team and right winger Adrien Schaff from Paris Saint-Germain. After the departure of the main red and white star, Romain Boveron, the 24-yearold Adrien has now taken his place.

The Monegasques are now planning to participate in the French Cup, an ambitious goal for both the players and team management. The first step towards their dream

© AS Monaco Handball

Amir Hamada

has already been taken. The team has acquired some strong players and qualified brilliantly.

In addition to men, both women and juniors play handball in the Principality. The handball club is not just a place to practice sports, but a real community centre. Players and coaches celebrate special days together, go on sports trips, take part in charity events and keep up with social networks.

The Hello Monaco team had a chance to interview Amir Hamada, sports manager and coach of the Monaco handball team, now playing for the second National Division.

: Amir, please tell us how you came to discover this sport.

Amir Hamada: I started playing handball at the age of six thanks to my school coach. At the age of 11, I was already assisting him in training. He was my role model, making me understand that I wanted to devote myself to coaching. My professional training continued at the STAPS Sports University, and then at the federal level.

I joined the Monaco team at the age of 20, back when it was playing in the First Division. I soon had an opportunity to take the club development manager position, and then its sports manager and coach role.

: What does handball mean to you?

Amir: I’m really passionate about it! Handball requires dedication, perseverance and interaction with other players. Sadly, despite numerous national championships, handball is less popular in France than other team sports. This sport has one peculiarity, however: once you start playing it, you are tied to the team forever! The players call their club a “handball family.” We are doing our best to attract young athletes, holding open days and extracurricular activities introducing them to the rules and peculiarities of this wonderful game.

: Could you tell us more about the club’s plans and goals.

Amir: We have a mission of boosting training efficiency and athletic performance. Our goal is developing and reaching the highest level, that is, upgrading from amateur to professional status.

Today the Monaco handball club counts over 360 members. We are holding all kinds of classes, such as Baby Hand for children aged 3+ and Hand Fit. In addition to training, the club is striving to engage in educational and social projects, touching upon environmentally-related issues, doping in sports and other important subjects. These are the values of the Monaco Handball Club that we want to pass on to future generations.

© AS Monaco Handball

© AS Monaco Handball

ERNESTO SPREGA:

Master Painter or Deceitful Forger?

By Xania Keane

It’s hard to imagine a place that can be more luxurious than Monaco. At the same time, the city is full of hidden treasures, if you know where to look. Streets, alleys and painted walls all tell strange and beautiful stories from bygone times.

Take, for instance, the ornate mosaic painting on the facade of the Chapel of Mercy located in MonacoVille just opposite the Town Hall. Upon first glance, some people would label it ‘a Renaissance painting’ while others would call it ‘street art’.

As usual, the truth lies somewhere in the middle. The piece was created by Ernesto Sprega, an Italian artist who lived in Monaco for over thirty years in the late 1800s: way after the Renaissance and way before Banksy.

The mosaic painting by Ernesto Sprega above the entrance to the Chapel of Mercy

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

FEATURED IN “HOLY HOAXES” A BOOK ABOUT FORGERIES

Ten miniature paintings on five little vellum leaves created by Ernesto Sprega while he was living in Monaco and Vienna have been the subject of debate between authors and historians for quite some time. The precise colours, impeccable penmanship and liquid gold detailing painted in a tiny space (measuring only fourteen by ten centimetres) is simply flawless.

Sprega’s paintings have been recently featured in a book called “Holy Hoaxes: A Beautiful Deception” written by William M. Voelkle which showcases seventy fakes and forgeries and was published in March 2023.

But are Sprega’s paintings really forgeries copied from the late fifteenth-century Bible of Borso d’Este or were they innocently created by a skilled fan of medieval art? Perhaps you can decide the answer for yourself after knowing a little more about the artist…

TURNING MONACO INTO A LEADER IN CERAMICS

Ernesto Sprega was born in Rome in 1829 in the family of a cabinetmaker. In 1844, he entered the Accademia di San Luca, later studied painting and ceramics. Sprega came to Monaco with his family on 16th June 1877. He first stayed at the Hôtel de Paris after accepting a job from Madame Marie Blanc, an extraordinary woman who helped found SBM with her husband, François Blanc. He was hired to work in Blanc’s ‘Poterie de Monaco’ and would later become the studio’s director, from 1883–1889.

Marie Blanc completely trusted the taste and artistic flair of the new director and gave him complete carte blanche . Sprega created incredible pieces while working in the studio and quickly propelled Monaco onto the international ceramics scene. While working in the studio, he came up with the ‘cannage’ technique, giving pots the look of woven baskets, which became a big trend amongst ceramicists. His ‘Egg of Monaco’ won an award at the 1889 Universal Exposition of Paris.

PAINTING FRESCOES IN THE PRINCELY PALACE

Deeply inspired by the Renaissance, Sprega worked as a restorer of the Raphael frescoes in the Vatican. When Sprega first moved to Monaco, he showed Charles Theuret, Grand Chaplain to the Prince of Monaco, his plans for Renaissance-style frescoes in the Palatine Chapel. Mgr Theuret presented the plans to Prince Charles III, who approved the designs. Sprega was working over the chapel of St. John the Baptist in the 1880s. The ceramic workshop ‘Poterie de Monaco’ had been already closed by that time, nowadays its memory remains in the name of one alley — Passage de l’Ancienne Poterie.

The artist tirelessly embellished the Chapel before painting more frescoes in the Prince’s Private Apartments and the Galé -

Ernesto Sprega created incredible ceramic pieces and quickly propelled Monaco onto the international ceramics scene.

rie d’Hercule. Every year on 24th June, the Princely family gaze upon Sprega’s frescoes when they celebrate St. Jean Baptiste day in the Palatine Chapel.

Ernesto Sprega (1829–1911)

Photo provided by Le Comité National des Traditions Monégasques

THE STORY OF THE MOSAIC PAINTING ON RUE COMTE FÉLIX GASTALDI

Inspiration struck Sprega after his second wife, Lorenzina Sangiorgio, became seriously ill and made a seemingly miraculous recovery in 1903. His wife’s clean bill of health made the artist decide to combine his two passions, ceramics and painting. Sprega knew he wanted to paint the Virgin Mary as an ode to his wife’s recovery after he noticed an empty niche above the entrance to the Chapel of Mercy in Monaco-Ville. The church had been built in 1639 and served as the seat of the Brotherhood of the Black Penitents.

Sprega showed his idea to the head of the Brotherhood, who approved the design. The artist then bought one-hundred tiles and got to work. He fired the enamelled pieces in four batches, which matched up perfectly to form the image of the Virgin. In 1906, Lorenzina finally died, but Ernesto gathered himself together and managed to finish the painting. In 1909, Arnal du Curel, the Bishop of Monaco, said mass in the Chapel of Mercy before heading to the entrance to bless the painting. A year later the artist died at the age of 82.

To celebrate the 200th anniversary of reuniting the two ancient White and Black Penitent brotherhoods into the “Vénérable Archiconfrérie de la Miséricorde Monaco” the Principality released a stamp featuring the mosaic in 2013.

COMMISSIONED TO COPY A RENAISSANCE PAINTER

During Sprega’s lifetime, the Catholic Church experienced secularization throughout Europe. This shift caused many medieval and Renaissance books from churches and monastic librar-

Sprega’s ‘Egg of Monaco’ won an award at the 1889 Universal Exposition of Paris.

ies to be sold privately. A market for the precise and decorative painting style of illuminated manuscripts developed and Sprega was commissioned to paint some replicas.

In 1862, Sprega was asked by the Arundel Society to reproduce illuminated manuscripts originally painted by Italian painter Liberale da Verona for choirbooks in Siena, Tuscany. Sprega’s skilled and accurate copies are now part of the Victoria and Albert museum’s collection in London. Founded in 1852, the V&A museum has acquired one of the largest collections of illuminated manuscripts, which were used to serve as models and inspiration for British art workers. Copies, like those made by Sprega, are a testament to Europe’s infatuation with illuminated manuscripts in the 19th-century.

The big question remains: was Ernesto Sprega a forger set out to deceive unwary buyers of his time? Many examples of similar paintings were sold across Europe to customers in search of authentic medieval manuscript pages. But did Sprega ever sell his copies with mal intent or was he only commissioned to replicate paintings that were in fashion at the time? The answer is still up for debate.

Forger or not, there is no doubt that Ernesto Sprega was a skilled and ambitious artist who believed in his vision enough to restore frescoes in the Vatican and paint grandiose murals in the Prince’s Palace.

An alley bearing the name of the old ceramic workshop is situated opposite the Little Africa Gardens.

The famous “Egg of Monaco” by Ernest Sprega

Photo provided by Le Comité National des Traditions Monégasques

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

From July 6th to September 1st 2024

TURNER The Sublime Legacy

In Dialogue With Contemporary Artists

Joseph Mallord William Turner, Venice Quay, Ducal Palace , exhibited 1844

, Photo © Tate

In collaboration with:

Until June 2

I ART

TOP SPRING ART EXPOSITIONS

By Nicole Laffont

“WE WILL GO AS FAR AS THE SUN”: JESSICA BACKHAUS AT THE MOUGINS PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER

Asingular atmosphere indeed. Its very colourful, slightly mystical images, in particular, the cut-outs, are anchored in the Matissian themes or evoke the painted squares of Joseph Albers. Jessica Backhaus’ art represents a small, very personal universe at the Mougins Photography Center. A colourful world, with its reality cut into sequences like in a film.

Window

Constellation

© Jessica Backhaus

© Jessica Backhaus

Jessica Backhaus is considered one of the most prominent voices in German contemporary photography. Her new “Cut Outs” series are created using the simplest means, reducing photography to its basic elements: light and shadow, form and colour. The transparent cut paper reacts to the heat of intense sunlight, deforming, lifting and casting shadows.

We ignore the origin of these abstract compositions with an undeniable hypnotic power. Here the colours dance and go beyond reality.

The second “The Nature of Things” series is an observation of everyday objects and elements, resulting in some indecipherable still lifes. This is how mere water glasses finish up in a constellation...The images impose themselves with their indisputable presence. Yet they go beyond the observation of things, or even that of an artistic arrangement. It is as if a new look at reality was piercing the paper. Colours, a play of light and shadow give rise to a new approach to the photographic art. Only under the sun.

“We will go as far as the sun.” Jessica Backhaus Photography Center 43 Rue de l’Eglise, Mougins, France

MARTINE DOYTIER, A RETROSPECTIVE IN NICE

Until July 31

This unique exhibition immediately shakes up, challenges, grabs your guts and your heart. For the first time, a retrospective is paying tribute to an artist who greatly marked the cultural life of Nice and the French Riviera in the 70s and 80s. This young woman died far too soon, at the very moment her art and notoriety were asserting themselves.

Having explored the naive style and inspired by a new spirit, Martine Doytier created a captivating style, reinacting an astonishing human comedy. Pale faces eaten by enormous black eyes, broken up or mishandled bodies, an accumulation of disturbing characters halfway between a child’s candour and a monster’s darkness we all have inside.

“Salons de l’Artistique” in Nice are now presenting some forty paintings and a number of unpublished drawings, revealing a story of this demanding, radical and tormented woman.

The curator of the exhibition, Marc Sanchez, meticulously brought together all these works, some of which have never been exposed. Two of them particularly stand out. The “SelfPortrait” is an ultimate and unfinished painting. The result of a five-year work, it is describing the daily universe of the artist, parading a number of characters having largely influenced “The School of Nice”. Her unique sculpture “M. Martin” is another impressive, lively composition set in the midst of the exhibition space. This is a jumble of sensations, questions and contradictory feelings. This work says a lot about the tortuous journey of this visual artist, strongly committed to her art.

“Autoportrait” (detail)

Сut Out

Martine Doytier. Une rétrospective L’Artistique; centre d’Arts et de Culture – Espace Ferrero 27B, Bd Dubouchage, Nice, France

© Jessica Backhaus

© Michel Coen

Martine Doytier and “M. Martin”

© Raph Gatti, Nice

PASOLINI IN CHIAROSCURO AT THE VILLA SAUBER IN MONACO

Until September 29

There’ve been films (some really great ones), writings, poems, political statements, sulphurous remarks, controversies, scandals and a sudden death... assassination on a beach near Rome in 1975.

Pasolini is known all over the world and leaves no one indifferent. His influence is palpable to this day, fifty years after his passing away. He is being read, commented on, adapted and inspiring for contemporary artists. Cinema being a major part of his work, it is currently honoured by a fascinating exhibition: “Pasolini in Chiaroscuro” at the Villa Sauber, Monaco.

His films should be seen in the light of classical and contemporary art, with his aesthetic largely anchored in visuals. Excerpts from “Accatone”, “Theoreme” or “Salo” thus rub shoulders with paintings by Pontormo, Pieter Claesz, Giorgio Morandi, Fernand Léger or Francis Bacon.

The second part of the exhibition bears witness to what extent a number of international artists were inspired by Pasolini, some of them sourcing their work from the very material of his films. In this respect, we may state that the Italian filmmaker, a scandal in his own time, remains a central

figure in the history of modern and contemporary art.

Pasolini in Chiaroscuro

New National Museum of Monaco – Villa Sauber

17, Avenue Princesse Grace, Monaco

Pier Paolo Pasolini. “La Ricotta”, 1963. Photogram

Angelo Novi. Pier Paolo Pasolini on set of “Teorema” film, 1968

Courtesy of Compass Film

Cineteca di Bologna / Fondo

Angelo Novi

BONNARD AND JAPAN IN AIX-EN-PROVENCE

Until October 6

Pierre Bonnard is known to have been strongly influenced by the azure. This colour guided his pictorial research all through his stays in Le Cannet, currently hosting the artist’s museum. The “nabi” who moved from impressionism to symbolism, however, drew his pure colours, suave lights, peaceful contours and soft nuances from the country of the Rising Sun.

Pierre Bonnard has well integrated Japanese aesthetics into his art. His processing of space, time and movement is inspired by Japanese prints, with their delicate vision of the world. According to the painter, “Through contact with these crude popular images, I came to understand that colour could express all things without the need for relief or modelling”.

This interaction between Pierre Bonnard and Japan is celebrated by an exhibition for the very first time.

The Hôtel de Caumont, in Aix-en-Provence, is exhibiting the works of the French painter alongside a selection of Japanese prints

from the prestigious Leskowicz collection, illustrating their similarities and affinities.

This dynamic scenography demonstrates how works of artists so distant in time and space may raise surprisingly close aesthetic questions. A true revelation.

Bonnard and Japan

Hôtel de Caumont – Art Center 3, Rue Joseph Cabassol, Aix-en-Provence, France

Pierre Bonnard, A Woman in a White Polka Dot Dress, 1890–1891, Tempera on paper mounted on canvas, decorative panels, 160,5 × 48 cm (each panel), Paris, musée d’Orsay, Photo © RMN-Grand Palais (musée d’Orsay) / Hervé Lewandowski

Katsushika Hokusai, The Great Wave off Kanagawa, From “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji” series, circa 1831, Stamp, 26,1 × 38,8 cm, Georges Leskowicz Collection, © photo Thierry Ollivier / © Fundacja Jerzego Leskowicza

Pierre Bonnard, Terrace in the South of France, Circa 1925, oil on canvas, 68 × 73 cm, Fondation Glénat, Grenoble, Photo : akg-images / Fine Art Images / Heritage Images

Utagawa Hiroshige, A Prince and a Woman in a Blossoming Plum Orchard, 1853, Stamp, Georges Leskowicz Collection © Fundacja Jerzego Leskowicza

ANNA CHROMY:

A Lifetime of Global Groundbreaking

Artistry Complemented by Her Monaco Connection

By Justin Brisk

“Cloak of Conscience” by Anna Chromy in the Larvotto beach area

Jean Ronin for Hello Monaco

Numerous sculptures on the streets of Monaco turn the city into an engaging open-air museum. Many famous masters have considered it an honour to donate their works to the Principality. One of the most famous sculptures is the “Cloak of Conscience” by Anna Chromy situated near the Grimaldi Forum. It is the most famous creation of the Czech-born sculptor who became the first woman to be awarded the Michelangelo Prize, an annual Italian prize for sculptors. Anna Chromy lived on the Côte d’Azur for several decades, being a prominent person in the cultural life of Monaco.

FIRST STEPS AFTER PRAGUE, IN SALZBURG, VIENNA AND PARIS EXPOSED ANNA TO DALÌ AND MOZART

The extraordinary odyssey that Anna Chromy traversed is a tribute to her determination, reverence for the aesthetics of life, and her dedication to her artistic calling. Her roots trace back to the picturesque shores of the Moldava River, forging a bond with the art and cultural tapestry of Europe. During her formative years, the resplendent Renaissance castles and grand Baroque churches that adorned Český Krumlov, her hometown, and Prague, her mother’s birthplace, cast an imprint upon her soul.

Following the conclusion of World War II, Chromy’s family faced expulsion from Bohemia, finding themselves in Vienna, Austria. The farewell she bid to her “stone” companions on Prague’s iconic Charles Bridge marked a profound juncture in her life. Her formative years in the cities of Salzburg and Vienna, Austria, gave her not only a language but also membership in the European Union. It was during this period that the harmonies of Mozart, Schubert, and other composers mingled awaiting their rebirth in her future sculpture.

Arriving in Paris, “The City of Light,” was a transformative experience for Anna. The Louvre, “Civilisation Française,” and the presence of foreign artists like Dalì and Picasso in this cultural mecca fueled her desire to create art. It was during her studies in Paris that Anna met her mentor, Salvador Dalì, who also became a personal friend. As his pupil, Dali inspired Anna’s imagination and creativity with his personal style of art known as surrealism. Dalí once praised Anna saying, “ You are the first woman to paint with the strength of one man, you will enter the history of painting.”

To cope with the overwhelming influence of this new world, she channeled her emotions into painting and decided to attend the Beaux Arts and Academy de la Grande Chaumière.

Despite professors’ attempts to steer her toward sculpture due to her three-dimensional approach to drawing, Anna was resolute in her desire to paint. The convergence of Parisian influences with her Central European heritage began to surface in her art.

Her early affinity for surrealism gradually evolved into a more visionary style, characterized by soft, Turner-like colours, akin to the Vienna School of “Phantastic Realists.”

A GENIUS IN 3 DIMENSIONS: SCULPTURE WAS A NATURAL MAGNET

As life often unfolds with unexpected twists, Anna’s path was no different. A grave accident disrupted her life, rendering her incapable of painting for an extended six-year period. Driven by an inherent restlessness, she embarked on a new artistic exploration — sculpture. Serendipitously, her residence on the scenic Côte d’Azur, close to the Italian border, placed her in the vicinity of renowned sculptural hubs in Pietrasanta and Carrara.

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

“Ulysses” is situated opposite the Monaco Yacht Club

Italy became a place of profound reconnection to her heritage. Here, she embraced her deep religious faith and found herself immersed in a culture where life resembled a grand theatrical production, surrounded by an abundance of artistic treasures. The enduring legacies of ancient Greece and Rome, the resplendent epochs of the Renaissance and Baroque under the patronage of the Medici and the Popes, resounded with a resolute call to champion beauty.

KALEIDOSCOPE OF EUROPEAN AND ASIAN SCULPTURES

In 2002, Anna’s sculpture, “The Heart of the World,” was presented to Pope John Paul II in St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican. In 2008, Anna received the “Primo Michelangelo” which is the highest award for a sculptor in Italy. Never forgetting Austria’s musical influence, Anna was the first sculptor to do the characters of Don Giovanni in life-size bronze. In 2000, Anna had her showing of her Don Giovanni and the Sound of Bronze Exhibition in Prague. This exhibition was an enormous success and brought her great exposure. Today, Anna’s fountain of Czech musicians is located in Prague’s Semovazni Square.

Her artwork, such as “The Cloak of Conscience,” “Olympic Spirit,” “Eurydice,” “Sisyphus,” “Prometheus,” “Gaia,” “Europe,” and “Ulysses,” as part of the “Mythos Revisited” exhibition, first displayed at the National Archaeological Museum in Athens, stands as a testament to her talent.

Though Anna’s art gained global recognition, it was her connection to Monaco that held a special place in her heart. Her sculptures left an indelible mark on the Principality. One can find her works gracing the reaches of the Palace, and opposite the Yacht Club. However, the most renowned of her Monaco-based sculptures is “Le Manteau de la Сonscience.” Anna wanted to raise people’s awareness, prick their conscience and this sculpture has had global reach in doing so. She wrote: “Having created the Cloak spontaneously, with my gut feeling, I decided to find out more and discovered that in the past, the image of a coat or cloak was used by many wise men as a metaphor for the protection of people in need or to recommend a conscience-building exercise. From Saint Francis, who recommended our own body as a mantle of meditation in the absence of a place of worship, to Mahatma Ghandi, who recommended swapping the clothes of the occupants for garments woven by his people, the examples are legion.”

Anna Chromy’s other sculptures of the Cloak of Conscience outside Monaco can be seen at the National Archeological Museum in Athens, Foundation Ferrero, Foundation C’a la Ghironda, Bologna, Museo dei Bozzetti, Pietrasanta, Italy, in Austria and at the Salzburg Cathedral, at Keitum Church, Sylt, Germany.

It was the year 1992 that had marked the beginning of her sculpting journey, and her passion led her to produce sculptures throughout her life. Despite the passage of time, her enthusiasm for art remained undiminished. When she celebrated her 79th year, she made a triumphant return to European cities and the streets of Pisa, for example, signifying her creativity and impact. Returning to Europe with the “Spiritual Archetypes” exhibition in Pisa in 2019 was a significant chapter in Anna’s artistic journey. The exhibition featured her sculptures spread throughout the city, inviting viewers to engage with her works in a unique way.

From Monaco, Anna Chromy’s influence extended far and wide. She was particularly celebrated in China, earning the status of a real star in the Middle Kingdom. Anna had the distinction of being the first foreign artist to present her works at the prestigious National Museum of China in Beijing. In 2009, China invited Anna as the first foreign sculptor to join the Chinese Academy of Sculpture and her work is mainly perceived as a message of peace and harmony. Anna’s sculpture, “Carmen,” was donated as a showpiece of the new opera house in Guangzhou and her sculpture, “Sisyphus,” has a place of honour in the Museum of Modern Art in Guangzhou.

The sculptures “La France Triomphante” and “Le Coq” can be seen in Roquebrune town, close to Monaco.

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

Also Anna’s sculpture, Olivier d’Or, was presented by Albert II, Prince of Monaco, to the Nobel Peace Prize Winner, Elie Wiesel.

Her global exhibition footprint extended to London, New York, Prague, Jerusalem, and several other international destinations.

In 2012 at the London Olympic Games, Chromy’s “Olympic Spirit” was positioned in the Olympic Village, the home of the athletes for the duration of the games. It was a compliment to the sportsmen and women competing at the Games. Some of them posed next to it to have their photograph taken, including Matthew Mitcham who climbed to the top of it for his photo. Ulysses, another of the Olympic collection, was positioned in the harbour of Monaco in 2011, and Sisyphus has been positioned at the University of Pisa.

ANNA CHROMY’S CONNECTION TO MONACO

Anna’s story in Monaco was emblematic of her enduring spirit and her relocation to the Principality’s borders brought her much happiness.

Fate played a role in Anna Chromy’s connection with Monaco. Her husband crossed paths with a lawyer named Maître Die, who happened to be a board member of Radio Monte-Carlo. This chance encounter sparked their interest in living in the Principality. At first, they declined the offer of a villa on the Rock, opting instead for a house close by in Cap-Martin with a garden.

I nterestingly, the villa they had not taken up on the Rock later became Princess Caroline’s property, which brought about some friendly good intentioned humour regarding their choices. After four decades of residing in the embrace of Monaco, they had undeniably found their true home. Anna had developed a fondness for the Prince, the sea, the tranquility, and the safety of Monaco. It was these very reasons that led the artist to settle in nearby Roquebrune-Cap-Martin.

MODESTLY BREAKING BARRIERS, ANNA HAD A GROUNDBREAKING GLOBAL IMPACT

Anna’s journey in the realm of art possessed a distinct quality. As a woman navigating a predominantly male domain, it was notable that, on certain occasions, a larger number of attendees gravitated toward her husband at gatherings.

This might be attributed to his fluency in the French language or her groundbreaking position as a female pioneer in the industry.

She broke barriers, achieving significant milestones, such as the Michelangelo Prize in 2008, and ultimately making her mark in the male-dominated art world.

Despite her global acclaim, Anna remained modest. In her own words, she preferred people to recognize her work and engage with her sculptures, rather than her fame. Her focus was not on personal recognition, but on the impact of her art.

During her life, Wolfgang Stein, her husband, her constant companion for 54 years, remained a steady presence, providing an unshakable foundation amidst the undulating tides of her art. As a united pair, they created a seamless duet.

Regrettably, Anna Chromy, the artist driven by a quest for perfection, departed at the age of 81. Nevertheless, her memory and influence persist, celebrated not only through her extraordinary artworks but also for the deep impression she left on the lives of those fortunate enough to have crossed her path.

The “Cloak of Conscience,” in the Saint-Martin Garden, was created from a single block of Carrara marble weighing 3 tons.

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

A FRAGNANT WALK IN THE INTERNATIONAL PERFUME MUSEUM'S GARDEN IN MOUANS-SARTOUX

By Nicole Laffont

This truly extraordinary garden is there to awaken all our senses. Multicoloured blossoms popping out of the greenery, rose bushes, lavender fields, generous orange trees, delicate jasmine shading the pergolas... A treat to the eye, this carefully preserved space in Mouans-Sartoux is just a stone's throw from the International Perfume Museum of Grasse and a conservatory of perfume plants.

No matter what illustrious brand signs a bottle, the magic of a fragrance is always down to what nature treasures. A walk across these gardens is but a brilliant demonstration of that.

This is a chance to rediscover the spirit of these agricultural and horticultural lands. Once very extensive in the Grasse region, they have been absorbed over the years by the real estate boom. Out of many thousands of tons of flowers processed in the early 20th century, a few dozen tons of jasmine, roses, tuberoses, violets and mimosa are still preciously guarded in this countryside... Their primary qualities are well highlighted here: vivacity and blossoming in a privileged and partly wild place, with their subtle perfume mingling with other garden essences.

An exquisite experience to try as a family in this magical place, with a lunch set among the flowers.

Les Jardins du Musée International de la Parfumerie

 979 Chemin des Gourettes, Mouans-Sartoux  +33(0)4.92.98.92.69

Prices:

w Full price 4 €

w Student 2 €

w Set price group adults 2 €

Open: 9 AM – 6 PM from March 1, 2024 until November 11, 2024

© Nicole Laffont

© Nicole Laffont

PEILLE: WHERE MONACO GOES TO RELAX

By Xania Keane

Perched on a cliff between wild forests, mountains and the Mediterranean sea is an ancient village that has remained unchanged for over five centuries. A stone’s throw from the staggering modernity of Monaco, the village of Peille is the antithesis of all things fast and futuristic, the yin to Monaco’s yang and a refuge for anyone longing to escape the stresses of contemporary life.

Peille is one of the most attractive villages in the region.

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

WHAT TO DO IN PEILLE

Amedieval gateway welcomes visitors into the pedestrianized village. Cars are left at the edge of town and exploring on foot is the way to go. Steep and narrow streets lead to a must-see 15th century fountain on Place de la Colle. The 14th century Palais des Consuls and the 17th century Palais des Lascaris, located on the edge of the cliff (now used as the local mediatheque) are other highlights. More important than visiting Peille’s landmarks is simply enjoying the village itself, because history is steeped in every house, every street, every cobblestone.

TIME STANDS STILL

Aside from its architecture, another remarkable feature of Peille is its surrounding natural splendour. From the Palais des Lascaris, a breathtaking panoramic view over pine forests and oak woodlands can be enjoyed. Surrounding the village are five walking paths (ranging from 20 minutes to 3 hours) that wind through natural landscapes, trees and wild flowers.

Traces of Monaco’s own history can be visited and discovered across Peille. The baroque altarpiece in the St. Marie Church was painted in the 18th century by Antoine de Lima, a Monegasque painter. In 1989, Prince Rainier III donated a valuable organ

from the chapel of the Prince’s Palace to the church. The sundial in the church was restored in 2008 thanks to two Monegasque patrons. A stele monument honouring the memory of Princess Grace can be visited in the garden of the St. Martin Chapel. Mona -

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

Mont Agel mountain

Place de la Colle with its 15th century fountain

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

co’s SPA (Society for the Protection of Animals shelter) is located in Peille and was opened this year. When the building was first constructed, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène laid the first stone.

WARRIOR ANCESTORS

Peille has been occupied since the Neolithic era. Between 700-300 BC, the Ligurians were joined by Celts to form a Celto-Ligure civilization, led by a king. They settled at the foot of Mont Agel, near SaintMartin de Peille and at Mont des Mules (in the current town of Beausoleil). Tombs found in the Val de Ville tell the story of these strong warriors who mastered the mountains and resisted the Romans for 160 years.

In 1197, the Count of Provence yielded the rock of Monaco to the Genoese. The Peillasques became divided, some were supporters of the Count of Provence, others of Genoa. This split created Peillon, which Peille lost in 1235. At the end of the 12th century, the village became entirely fortified by ramparts, towers and battlements.

MONTE-CARLO GOLF COURSE FOUNDED 113 YEARS AGO

Before the First World War, in 1911, the Monte Carlo golf course was established on the slopes of Mont Agel.

Redesigned and expanded since the Belle Epoque, the club is now equipped with modern watering systems and hosts the best players in the world during the MonteCarlo professional open.

VILLAGERS PROTECT JEWISH CHILDREN DURING WWII

In 1940, during the Second World War, the area’s forts resisted Italian attacks, but were disarmed following the armistice of June 1940. In 1944, violent fighting took place between resistance fighters of Peille and German garrisons of the Col des Banquettes and Mont Agel. The village was bombed twice on 19th and 30th August 1944. The Sisters of the local hospice and Peillois villagers hid Jewish children and saved them from the horrific roundups in Nice between 1943-1944. The village was liberated on 5 September 1944 by American and Canadian troops, who lost five soldiers on Peille territory as well as three American artillerymen who fell at the Col de la Madone.

WWII GERMAN RADIO STATION BECOMES HOME TO PRINCESS STEPHANIE’S ELEPHANTS

In 1943, during the occupation, the Germans built a radio station to broadcast propaganda on the south -

ern slope of Mont Agel. After the war, the building was taken over by Monaco and became the headquarters of Radio Monte Carlo. When the facilities became obsolete, the land and station became a home for two elephants who were rescued from euthanasia and adopted by Princess Stephanie.

“ROC AGEL IS WHERE WE CLOSE THE DOOR TO THE WORLD.” — PRINCESS GRACE

In 1956, Prince Rainier III bought Roc Agel, a 56-hectare property on the southern slope of Peille, not far from the golf course. For almost 70 years, the property has been a peaceful respite for the Princely family. 2,300 feet above sea level (so high up it’s sometimes veiled in clouds) Rocagel is protected from the prying eyes of the paparazzi.

“Prince Rainier drives a tractor and tinkers with wrought iron in his workshop, and Princess Grace plays the piano (for her parrot Berlioz) and makes quite professional ceramics and collages of dried flowers and

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

Palais des Lascaris

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

The vaulted passages add further to the charm of the old village.

leaves,” wrote Fred Hauptfuhrer for People

Grace and Rainier planted willows and poplar trees around Roc Agel that have grown so high, they can be seen from the Palace today. Near the house’s terrace, an elm tree brought back from America by Princess Grace in her handbag in the early 1960s continues to flourish. Princess Grace took care of the vegetable garden and the corn plants that she brought back from the United States are still thriving. Roc Agel’s organic garden currently produces fruit and vegetables which supply the kitchens of the Palace all summer long. Cows, horses, chicken and sheep roam around the property.

Roc Agel was where Prince Albert II and his family spent part of quarantine during the pandemic. It was where Princess Charlène spent part of her recovery after a severe sinus infection. As a child, Roc Agel was

Symbolic laying of the first stone of the Monaco SPA refuge by Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène in the village of Peille in September 2022

© Eric Mathon / Palais princier

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

The Monte-Carlo Golf Club is a green paradise surrounded by blue at 900 metres above sea level with an 18-hole golf course.

The Sainte-Marie Church with its sundial

magazine in 1975.

Prince Albert’s first introduction to nature. And today, it is a place of natural wonder for his children, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella.

PRINCE ALBERT AND PRINCESS CHARLÈNE, HONORARY CITIZENS OF PEILLE

In 2019, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène unveiled a ‘Grimaldi Historic Sites of Monaco’ plaque before being

his gratitude to the Prince and Princess for everything they do for Peille. Since 1982, when Prince Albert II succeeded Princess Grace in presiding over the Monegasque Red Cross, the Prince has given one hundred parcels to the Peille Communal Social Action Committee every year on Monegasque National Day. Since 2014, the Princess Charlène Foundation has taught Peille’s elementary school children how to swim as part of the ‘Learn to Swim’ program. To celebrate their citizenship, the Princely couple were given gifts including a painting, two medals, a barrel of beer

Grace and Rainier planted willows and poplar trees around Roc Agel that have grown so high, they can be seen from the Palace today.

made honorary citizens of Peille. At the time, Mayor Cyril Piazza wanted to show

brewed in Peille and a photograph of a Princely visit to Peille from 1961.

PRINCE ALBERT II AND PRINCESS STÉPHANIE INAUGURATE PRINCE RAINIER-III AVENUE IN PEILLE

An avenue in Peille between the Fontbonne intersection and the entrance to the Mont Agel military road now bears the name of Prince Rainier III. The new name was unanimously voted for by members of the municipal council. Prince Albert II, Princess Stéphanie and Mayor Cyril Piazza, who is also president of the ‘Grimaldi Historic Sites of Monaco’ Association, unveiled an inaugural plaque for Prince Rainier-III Avenue. Another Princely reference in Peille is the Princess-Grace Garden.

Only ten kilometres away from Monaco, Peille is a place reverberating with the immense weight of history and natural beauty. A place between mountains and the sea. A place favoured by royalty. A place where modern anxieties melt away.

© Frédéric Nebinger / Palais princier

Prince Albert II, Princess Stéphanie and the Mayor of Peille, Cyril Piazza during the inauguration of the ‘Prince Rainier-III Avenue’ plaque in 2023

DUBAI OPERA UNVEILS CULTURAL SPLENDOUR: THE GRAND OPENING GALA & UPCOMING SPECTACLES

By Katya Taran

As I stepped into the grand foyer of Dubai Opera, the air was abuzz with anticipation and excitement for the grand opening of The Swann Lake by the Hungarian State Ballet. The elegant chandeliers illuminated the opulent surroundings, casting a soft, warm glow on the marble floors and intricately designed walls. It was the opening night of a new season full of innovations thanks to the young and talented new Italian Superintendent Paolo Petrocelli who is giving this institution programming worthy of the beauty of the place. I also had the privilege of being a VIP guest at this prestigious event…

On my way to my seat, I couldn’t help but marvel at the stunning architecture of the venue. Designed to resemble a traditional sailing vessel, Dubai Opera exudes a sense of grace and sophistication. The main stage, orchestra, and seating are housed in the ‘bow’ of the structure, while the elongated ‘hull’ featured waiting areas, taxi drop-off points, and parking facilities. The rooftop restaurant offered breath-taking views of the iconic Burj Khalifa, adding to the allure of the evening.

Taking my seat, I felt a sense of anticipation building within me. The curtain was about to rise, and I knew that I was in for a remarkable experience. I had seen “The Swann Lake” before but witnessing it in the grandeur of Dubai Opera promised to be an entirely new and enchanting experience, also because the quality

© Dubai Opera

of the staging was as spectacular as the rest of this season’s programming.

“The target of the company as a whole is increasingly to make Dubai Opera an attractive hub of cultural tourism in Dubai, bringing in top-class productions that reflect the multicultural soul of the country,” declares Paolo Petrocelli. The Red Carpet was crowded with eminent personalities from all over the world including Alessandro Maffi, CEO Van Cleef and Arpels, Anthony Liguer-Laoubhouet, icon of Middle East and North Africa, Manuel Rabaté, director of the Louvre Abu-Dhabi, and Rana Hatem Haddad, Head of Vogue Arabia. Additionally, there was a long list of ambassadors and consular heads from the major European countries.

As the lights dimmed and the music began, I was transported into a world of magic and beauty. The exquisite movements of the dancers, accompanied by the graceful melodies of the orchestra, mesmerized the audience. The precision and artistry displayed on stage were nothing short of breath-taking. I found myself captivated by the seamless storytelling and emotional depth conveyed through each movement. Without forgetting the perfect acoustics of the hall, which, as Petrocelli emphasises, “is essential for enjoying both the pop, rock, folk or jazz concerts we have on the bill and the great classical events, such as the debut of the orchestra of Milan’s La Scala Theatre on 1 December”.

Being a VIP guest heightened the experience even further. Throughout the evening, I was treated to impeccable service and attention to detail. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with warmth and hospitality. The staff ensured that every aspect of my visit was taken care of, from the luxurious amenities to the delectable cuisine served during the intermission.

Attending the opening of a new season at Dubai Opera was truly a privilege. It was an evening that combined elegance, culture, and artistry in a way that left a lasting impression on me. The venue itself was a testament to architectural brilliance and its audience is young, international, and enthu-

siastic, while the performance showcased the immense talent and dedication of the artists involved.

“Dubai Opera continues to lead as an iconic ‘House of Cultures “ a vibrant and innovative hub, a meeting point where languages and cultures from across the globe intersect and meld daily, delivering a truly unparalleled and memorable experience to all audiences,” says Dr. Paolo Petrocelli, Head of Dubai Opera. “We are dedicated to serving our diverse community, forging connections between esteemed companies and world-renowned artists who grace the stage of our exceptional venue.”

HelloMonaco: How will the partnerships with Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism and Dubai Culture enhance the cultural vibrancy of the region?

Dr. Paolo Petrocelli: These partnerships are designed to catalyse the regional artistic ecosystem and reinforce ties with local communities. Through an array of ventures, including music festivals, educational initiatives, theatrical performances, and workshops, these synergistic collaborations aim to celebrate Dubai’s rich cultural heritage, engage the community meaningfully, and deepen cultural roots.

: Can you provide more information about the Training Programme and the Lullaby Project launched by Dubai Opera?

Dr. Paolo Petrocelli: This programme equips aspiring performing arts professionals with the requisite skills and knowledge in both a theoretical and practical setting for sound, light, and stage operations, fostering a broader understanding and appreciation for cultural diversity, thereby aligning with Dubai Opera’s

Dr. Paolo Petrocelli

© Dubai Opera

© Dubai Opera

ethos of promoting global cultural harmony.

Leaving Dubai Opera that night, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness such a remarkable event. It was a reminder of the transformative power of the arts and the ability of cultural experiences to leave a lasting impact on our lives.

THRILLING SECOND PART OF THE SEASON 2023–2024

Just one part of the season is behind us but it has already sounded loudly. Only in February Dubai Opera organised an intense chamber music season with 15 performances featuring internationally renowned names, such as Maxim Vengerov, Stella Chen with the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Gold Me -

dalist of the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition Yekwon Sunwoo among many others.

But it will be on the weekend of 27 and 28 April that Dubai Opera’s spring season will touch one of the unsurpassed peaks of the current international music scene, with the extremely rare and almost unique arrival in the West of the now legendary symphony orchestra Musicaeterna, led by its mentor and founder: the eccentric, extravagant, creative Greek conductor Theodor Currentzis, by now an undisputed icon for music lovers all over the world.

Then the season will continue to grow in its splendour. Gidon Kremer with his Kremerata Baltica, the pinnacle of European musical quality, and Russian pianist Denis Matsuev will arrive in Dubai on 3 and 4 May respectively, followed on 9 and 10 May by two evenings dedicated to the

great symphonic film music of the multiaward-winning and Oscar-winning Ennio Morricone, conducted by his best interpreter, his son Andrea.

This will be followed by three more live events dedicated to great music for the cinema with Star Wars — A New Hope in concert, Pirates of the Caribbean — The Curse of the Black Pearl live in concert and Charlie Chaplin The Kid live in concert.

T he season will be closed by the double date on 16 and 17 May of the cello star HAUSER, formerly 2Cellos, with his intriguing reinterpretations of the great classics, but also pop and rock repertoire, with a strongly rhythmic and virtuosic character, and his great spectacular and acting talent that can enchant audiences all over the world. Finally, the jazz star and best selling American instrumentalist Chris Botti.

DUBAI OPERA — UPCOMING BRIGHT PERFORMANCES

MusicAeterna

& Teodor Currentzis in the

Middle East

April 27–28, 2024

In a groundbreaking regional first, MusicAeterna, one of the world’s most celebrated ensembles that constantly pushes the boundaries of its creative powers, will perform two concerts on April 27–28, 2024, dedicated to Tchaikovsky and Wagner.

Gidon Kremer and Kremerata Baltica

May 3, 2024

Dubai Opera proudly presents an evening of unmatched classical elegance, featuring the extraordinary Gidon Kremer alongside his ensemble, Kremerata Baltica. Globally acclaimed for his deep interpretations and inventive artistry, the legendary violinist Gidon Kremer is accompanied by Kremerata Baltica — a chamber orchestra encapsulating the quintessence of Baltic musical heritage.

Denis Matsuev

May 4, 2024

Brace yourselves for an unforgettable night at Dubai Opera as the world-renowned pianist Denis Matsuev takes centre stage, presented by M Premiere and MN Live. Performing under the theme “Classics & Jazz,” Matsuev will showcase masterpieces from Grieg and Rachmaninoff to Gershwin and Bernstein, spanning centuries and continents. Joining him are his friends, jazz musicians Andrey Ivanov on double bass and Alexander Zinger on drums.

Ennio Morricone — The Official Concert Celebration

May 9–10, 2024

Launching the series on May 9–10, 2024, is the “Official Concert Celebration of Ennio Morricone” paying tribute to one of cinema’s most revered composers, directed by Andrea Morricone, the late maestro’s son. Immerse yourself in the magic of Morricone’s music, as we traverse the landscapes of spaghetti westerns, epic adventures, and heartfelt dramas.

Teodor Currentzis

Photo by Olya Runyova

Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert May 11, 2024

Witness the iconic saga of a rebellion against the dark forces of the Empire at Dubai Opera as the esteemed Armenian State Symphony under the baton of conductor Anthony Gabriele, take you on a thrilling journey through the stars. In this special presentation, experience the magic of Disney’s Star Wars: A New Hope with the complete score by legendary composer John Williams performed live to the film.

Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl Live in Concert May 12, 2024

Experience the thrill of high seas adventure like never before at Dubai Opera, as the renowned Armenian State Symphony Orchestra and Dubai Festival Chorus, conducted by Anthony Gabriele, bring to life Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black

Pearl. Composer Hans Zimmer’s complete score, featuring Klaus Badelt & Hans Zimmer’s iconic music, will be performed live to the film, promising an unforgettable cinematic and symphonic fusion.

Charlie Chaplin’s The Kid Live in Concert May 13, 2024

Transport yourself to the charm of silent cinema at Dubai Opera, where we proudly present Charlie Chaplin’s cinematic masterpiece ‘The Kid.’ Immerse yourself in the endearing story of the Tramp and his unexpected companion, enhanced by the live, emotive soundtrack performed by the talented Armenian Symphony Orchestra and conducted by Timothy Brock.

HAUSER May 16–17, 2024

Dubai Opera proudly presents an extraordinary musical event featuring the renowned instrumentalist and co-founding member of 2CELLOS, HAUSER. HAUSER’s meteoric rise to global acclaim is attributed to his exceptional fusion of classical, pop, and rock music. He captured the hearts of millions with his iconic rendition of Michael Jackson’s ‘Smooth Criminal,’. Today, HAUSER stands as one of the most significant instrumentalists of the twenty-first century.

Chris Botti May 19, 2024

Since the release of his 2004 critically acclaimed CD When I Fall In Love, Chris Botti has become the largest-selling American instrumental artist. His success has crossed over to audiences usually reserved for pop music and his ongoing association with PBS has led to four #1 jazz albums, as well as multiple Gold, Platinum and Grammy Awards.

To follow up with the detailed program at the Dubai Opera please follow the link https://www.dubaiopera.com to check the latest updates.

HAUSER

Photo : Krisztián Bódis

Gidon Kremer

Photo : Angie Kremer Photography

Courtesy The Kurland Agency

Chris Botti

PADEL BEST EXPO 2024

From 7 to 9 April 2024, Monaco's Grimaldi Forum will host the first edition of the PADEL BEST EXPO, a prestigious exhibition dedicated to the world of padel created by the Italian company BSG, following their initiative of the first FIVE PADEL CUP. The event will be attended by a number of iconic figures and legends of international sport… many of them from football but not only...

PADEL BEST EXPO will host the CUPRA FIP TOUR 2024, worldwide professional circuit of the International Padel Federation. Among the 120 tournaments organised throughout the year and across five continents, the stage is scheduled inside the Grimaldi Forum of Monaco during the PADEL BEST EXPO with a competition dedicated to the players taking part in this prestigious championship. The competition will be official and the points awarded for each player's performance will count towards the world ranking of the CUPRA FIP TOUR 2024.

THE EXPOSITION

The PADEL BEST EXPO is THE event not to be missed by padel enthusiasts. And with good reason! For three days, BSG has selected some of the world's leading brands/companies and suppliers to come to Monaco and expose their main products related to the practice of this fast-growing sport. Roberta Ceccarelli, CEO of BSG: “The PADEL BEST EXPO is based on three fundamental focuses... entertainment, presentation of the world of padel and innovation (new products and hardware developments...).” The aim was to spotlight current trends in an environment conducive to sporting and professional encounters.

The Grimaldi Forum will be set up to showcase the latest equipment, materials and courts… with the goal of showing to their very best these elements to the many observers already expected. The exposition will also give regular players the chance to meet up and enjoy a unique experience based on their shared passion... padel. It's also an opportunity for the more novice players to discover the specificities of the sport and the playing characteristics, through contact with the sector professionals who will be here, at PADEL BEST EXPO.

Roberta Ceccarelli

THE SECOND EDITION OF THE FIVE PADEL CUP INSIDE MONACO'S GRIMALDI FORUM

Inside Monaco's Grimaldi Forum several ephemeral padel courts will be set up. This will enable the FIVE PADEL CUP to take place at the heart of the PADEL BEST EXPO. Five tournaments will be held simultaneously on the above-mentioned courts over the three days. The aim is to highlight the universality of the sport by bringing together, at the same time and in an exceptional setting, personalities from

a wide range of backgrounds. It's a way of demonstrating that the richness of padel is found in the diversity of the participants...

PADEL BEST EXPO = EXPOSITION + FIVE PADEL CUP 2 + CUPRA FIP TOUR 2024

The five competitions have already been presented on the official website of the event: https://www. padelbest.net. The organisers confirm the presence of Ukrainian legend Andriy Shevchenko. Winner of the Golden Ball in

2004, the former AC Milan striker will be taking part in the PADEL BEST EXPO... As Ambassador of “Football for Ukraine”, funds will also be raised for this association.

A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN BSG AND THE MONEGASQUE PADEL FEDERATION

The Monegasque Padel Federation is an official partner of PADEL BEST EXPO. This is an opportunity to directly involve and promote those who enable Monegasque padel to shine internationally, through the competitions they take part in over the years.

Roberta Ceccarelli, CEO of BSG, the company organising PADEL BEST EXPO: “I am very proud of this partnership with the Monegasque Padel Federation. Together,

we hope to make this project a great success. PADEL BEST EXPO confirms itself as a credible body capable of hosting one of the most prestigious events in the world of this sport (CUPRA FIP TOUR 2024...) which will complement the other activities (FIVE PADEL CUP, expo...) that we already scheduled for the occasion. Our collaboration with the International Padel Federation represents also a great driver for the enhancement of the entire padel sector and a real added value to the important event we are organizing, with BSG’s team.”

Cécilia D'Ambrosio, President of the Monegasque Padel Federation: “I am delighted to be able to support and take part, under the aegis of the Federation, in this magnificent project set up by BSG. The PADEL BEST EXPO is fully in line with the values we wish to convey and our day-to-day objectives of developing the sport in the Principality. This is

the beginning of a collaboration whose main aim will be to promote locally a sport that is growing in popularity all over the world. It's all very positive.”

The Barbagiuans of Monaco will also be taking part in the PADEL BEST EXPO. In particular, they will be doing so through the FIVE PADEL CUP tournament for sports VIPs. The group founded by Prince Albert II and now chaired by Louis Ducruet will field several teams, most of which will be made up of iconic figures from local and international football.

In addition to “Football For Ukraine”, part of the funds raised will be donated directly to Fight Aids Monaco, the HIV charity founded and chaired by H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie.

Tickets available on padelbest.net/book

Extraordinary Gala at La Scala Theatre by Franchesca

Rava foundation

The Francesca Rava Foundation – NPH Italy ETS was founded in 2000 to help children and adolescents in need, as well as vulnerable mothers and women in Italy, Haiti, and around the world.

Last September, for the first time in Monaco, the Foundation organized a glamorous event at the Yacht Club, sponsored by the Italian embassy, where Italian excellence in cuisine and design met solidarity, focusing on environmentally sustainable values, which are the cornerstone of all the Foundation’s projects and are in line with the goals of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda.

There are many ways to support the Foundation, such as child sponsorship, participating in summer camps in Italy and abroad, or attending numerous fundraising events. Save the date: on May 6th, the Extraordinary Gala at La Scala Theatre in support of the Foundation’s projects in Italy and around the world will take place.

Learn more: www.fondazionefrancescarava.org

A young volunteer working during the campus in Dominican Republic

From the left: Lia Riva, Mariavittoria Rava, Giulio Alaimo, Ambassador of Italy to the Principality of Monaco, and his wife Susanna

A young volunteer playing with a kid in the home in Dominican Republic

© Fondazione Francesca Rava

© Fondazione Francesca Rava

© Fondazione Francesca Rava

© Fondazione Francesca Rava

Mariavittoria Rava, President of Fondazione Francesca Rava, and volunteers during the event in Monaco last September

Susan Tomassini

HelloMonaco is pleased to introduce Susan Tomassini, a licensed nutritionist and co-owner of The Clever Kitchen and Foodwise in Monaco. She contributes a column on healthy lifestyle to give our readers important information on eating well, staying healthy and finding balance in our often-hectic lives. Susan spent over 20 years as a model in Milan and after having children, devoted her life to studying health and nutrition. Her website, Foodwise (www.foodwise.life), offers practical nutrition and lifestyle advice. Through Monaco-based The Clever Kitchen (www.thecleverkitchen.com), Susan offers nutrition workshops with inspirational and realistic ways to stay healthy, featuring healthy recipes based on fresh, seasonal produce and nutrientdense Superfoods.

TOP 4 FOODS TO LOWER YOUR CHOLESTEROL

Do you want to safely and effectively optimize your cholesterol levels? The first thing to realize is that simply lowering your dietary cholesterol is not the best way.

IT’S NOT ENOUGH TO KNOW WHAT FOODS TO AVOID WITH HIGH CHOLESTEROL

75

% of your cholesterol is produced by your liver, which is influenced by your insulin levels. Foods that increase your insulin levels contribute to high cholesterol by making

your liver produce more of it. Therefore, if you optimize your insulin levels, you will also regulate your cholesterol levels.

The most powerful ways to do that is by exercising and paying attention to the foods you eat. With that in mind, here are my top four recommendations for safely keeping your cholesterol levels within a healthy range:

Oatmeal, oat bran and high-fibre foods

Oatmeal contains soluble fibre, which reduces your low-density lipoprotein (LDL) — the “bad,” cholesterol — by reducing the absorption of cholesterol into your bloodstream. Soluble fibre is also found in foods such as kidney beans, apples, pears, barley and prunes.

How much? Five to 10 grams or more of soluble fibre a day can decrease your total and LDL cholesterol. Eating 1 1/2 cups of cooked oatmeal provides 6 grams of fibre. If you add fruit, such as bananas, you’ll add about 4 more grams of fibre. To mix it up a little, try steel-cut oatmeal or cold cereal made with oatmeal or oat bran.

Fish and Omega-3 fatty acids

Walnuts, almonds and other nuts

Walnuts, almonds and other nuts can all help reduce blood cholesterol. Rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, walnuts also help keep blood vessels healthy.

How many? Eating about a handful (20–30 grams) a day of most nuts, such as almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, pecans, some pine nuts, pistachio nuts and walnuts, may reduce your risk of heart disease. Just make sure the nuts you eat aren’t salted or coated with sugar!

All nuts are high in calories, so don’t exaggerate. To avoid eating too many nuts and gaining weight, replace foods high in saturated fat with nuts. For example, instead of using cheese, meat or croutons in your salad, add a handful of walnuts or almonds.

Olive oil

antioxidants. Keep in mind that “light” olive oils are usually more processed than extra-virgin or virgin olive oils and are lighter in colour, not lighter in fat or calories.

A FEW MORE TIPS ON CHOLESTEROL DIET

For any of these foods to provide their benefit, you need to make other changes to your diet and lifestyle.

Cut back on saturated and trans fats. Saturated fats, like those in meat, fullfat dairy products and some oils, raise your total cholesterol. Trans fats, which 1 2 3 4

Eating fatty fish can help protect heart health because of its high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce your blood pressure and risk of developing blood clots. Eat at least two servings of fish a week. The highest levels of Omega-3 fatty acids are found in: mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna, salmon and halibut.

How to eat: Lightly grill fish to avoid adding unhealthy fats. If you are vegetarian, or don’t like fish, you can also get small amounts of Omega-3 fatty acids from foods like ground flaxseed, walnuts or canola oil. Try to eat organic fish if possible.

Taking an Omega-3 or fish oil supplement will give you some of the same benefits as eating fish, but you won’t benefit from other nutrients, such as selenium. Make sure to get enough through your diet. Brazil nuts are a good source.

Olive oil contains a potent mix of antioxidants that can lower your “bad” (LDL) cholesterol while protecting your levels of “good” (HDL) cholesterol.

Consume about 2 tablespoons of olive oil a day in place of other fats in your diet to get its heart-healthy benefits. To add olive oil to your diet, you can sauté vegetables in it, add it to a marinade or mix it with vinegar as a salad dressing. You can also use olive oil as a substitute for butter on bread. Olive oil is high in calories — don’t eat more than the recommended amount.

are often found in margarines and storebought cookies, crackers and cakes, as well as commercially fried foods, are particularly bad for your cholesterol levels. Trans fats raise low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the “bad,” cholesterol, and lower high-density lipoprotein (HDL), the “good,” cholesterol.

The cholesterol-lowering effects of olive oil are even greater if you choose extravirgin olive oil, meaning the oil is less processed and contains more heart-healthy

In addition to changing your diet, keep in mind that making additional hearthealthy lifestyle changes are key to lowering your cholesterol. So, exercising, quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight are key!

GIVENCHY LUXURY AT THE MÉTROPOLE MONTE-CARLO

By Nicole Laffont

Look no further! The Givenchy spa is exceptional. There is one in Switzerland, one in Fez, Morocco, and another one in… Monaco. The brand is exclusive, involving sophisticated rituals, expert hands and informed advice. The Métropole Monte-Carlo is emphasizing its relaxing environment with sober colours enhanced by golden notes and a very refined decor by the interior designer, Didier Gomez. The walls of the treatment rooms, covered with a delicate moss, reveal soothing figures and some very aesthetic arabesques. Both the sauna and hammam have a warm mosaic background, whilst the boutique highlights an elegant packaging of Givenchy perfumes, skincare products and make-up. From the very moment you walk in, you feel the attention paid to the smallest details, a true mark of excellence.

Photo: Charly HEL

The perfume is part of a “private collection” resembling in its spirit that of heralded haute couture clothing. Depending on the year and season, there may be innovations, and the fragrances all bear evocative names. Each client can thus choose the atmosphere for his own treatments, opting for a grapefruit “Cœur Fou” (Crazy Heart), a fig leaf “Trouble-Fête” (Troublemaker) or a “Oiseau Rare” (Rare bird) scented with pittosporum peppery notes…A fragranced atmosphere permeating the bathrobes, bed linen and towels is perfectly matched by soft music.

The Givenchy spa offers traditional facial and body cryotherapy-based treatments to boost your skin and give it a refreshing note. Its particularly impressive “Le Soin Noir” protocol uses a new elixir, made from algae found in the depths of the oceans and older than humanity. This exceptionally resistant plant is capable of proliferating in extreme conditions and surviving volcanic temperatures. Nowadays it is grown in the laboratory, where its active ingredient, a powerful elixir for cellular regeneration, is extracted.

On top of using very sophisticated ingredients to combat wrinkles, fine lines and sagging tissues, the “Le Soin Noir” requires a specific know-how. The beautician’s expert movements thus contribute to an exceptional face drainage. Acupressure is used

Photo: Will Pryce

Photo: Studio Phenix

to boost the effect of creams and ointments. This is a technique based on acupuncture, but needle-free, using finger pads only. Total relaxation and a luminous face is guaranteed. The session is sometimes crowned with a touch of make-up to highlight the result.

TIBETAN BOWLS, A SOOTHING “SOUND BATH”

Sound baths are another of the Métropole novelties. These unique sessions using vibrations give energy, and combat psychological and physical tensions. Founder of the “Uman Project”, Marine Giovannini, uses fourteen Tibetan bowls and two instruments to produce chakra-transforming vibrations. Stretched on a mat, eyes closed, let yourself be guided by Marine’s voice, gradually letting everything go. Meditation sessions and energy treatments complement these sound baths, prompting a spiritual envelopment.

Photo: Studio Phenix

Photo: Studio Phenix

For the well-being of your body and mind, yoga classes are conducted at the Métropole by an expert, Florence. In summer, they are held on the hotel’s rooftop in an exceptional setting.

THE OVERALL BEAUTY EXPERIENCE, INVOLVING MAKE-UP

According to the Spa director, William Cardelin, to “live a global beauty experience”, a make-up step is essential. On top of the little touch offered after facial treatments, special courses are taught by Joe Ghannam, a make-up expert looking after Princess Charlène herself. This is an opportunity to learn the right gestures, mistakes to avoid and little touches to bring the best out of your face or mask imperfections.

“Make-up is not an accessory or a piece of clothing... It’s about allowing a woman to give the best of herself. I really like drawing and I often do my make-up on paper. As for fashion, I only follow it if it serves beauty.”

Joe Ghannam underlines the importance of eyebrows which the current trend wants quite thick. A “hair by hair” technique makes them look particularly natural. For the eyelids, he warns against iridescent or

glittery shades which do not suit slightly wrinkled skin. And last but not least, a good foundation in fairly light tones to avoid highlighting wrinkles, is vital. Many

other tips are included in these expert lessons, allowing each one of us to choose the brushes, products and colours best suited to our type of beauty.

Photo: Nicolas Le Coq

Photo: Hotel Métropole

Photo: Loïc Thébaud

TOWARDS THE PERFECT BEACH BODY WITH WORLD CLASS MONACO

Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes the desire to flaunt that perfect beach body. With just three months to go, now is the perfect time to kick-start your fitness journey and achieve the summer body of your dreams. Fortunately, our gym is here to help you every step of the way

First and foremost, we understand that life can get hectic, especially as the summer months approach. That’s why we offer a variety of short memberships tailored to fit your busy schedule. Whether you’re constantly on the move or just need a quick boost before summer hits, our flexible membership options ensure that you can still prioritise your fitness goals. But it’s not just about convenience — it’s also about quality. Our gym prides itself on having the best and most up-to-date equipment available. From cutting-edge cardio machines to topnotch strength training equipment, we have everything you need to sculpt your perfect body.

In addition to our equipment, we also offer a variety of group classes designed to target every muscle group and fitness level. Whether you’re looking for a full-body workout with our Circuit Training group classes or prefer a more

persona lised approach with one-onone sessions with our qualified fitness instructors, we have something for everyone. But achieving your fitness goals requires more than just showing up at the gym and going through the motions. It’s about having the right support system and tools in place to help you maximise your efforts.

Our coaches have the ability to assess your strengths and abilities and then create a personalised plan that is tailored to your body type, fitness level, and goals.

Our instructors will provide the accountability and encouragement you need to stay on track and push past your limits. They will also introduce you to different exercises and equipment to keep your

© World Class Monaco

workouts fresh and exciting while ensuring continuous progression towards your desired summer body! But we don’t stop there. We believe that achieving your ideal summer body is about more than just physical activity — it’s also about selfcare and pampering.

Our Beauty Spa has gathered several recommendations and offers a variety of effective treatments designed to complement your fitness routine and enhance your results. At Beauty Spa, we understand that consistency is key to seeing real results.

We offer a variety of body treatments aimed at toning your muscles, softening your skin, and improving your skin’s elasticity. From body wraps to lymphatic drainage massages, we have everything you need to look and feel your best this summer. One of our signature treatments, the Atlantic Refresh by Thalion, is the perfect way to kickstart your summer body transformation. This luxurious treatment begins with exfoliation in our sauna to warm up your muscles and prepare your skin for the next steps. Next, you’ll enjoy a relaxing body scrub and a seaweed body wrap to help detoxify your body and deeply hydrate your skin.

For those looking for immediate results, we also offer Endospheres Body and Cryotherapy Body treatments. Endospheres Body is known for immediate results after just one session, with no downtime required. It is recommended to undergo between 6 to 12 sessions for optimal results. Meanwhile, Cryotherapy Body effectively targets fat cells to help you achieve a slimmer, more toned physique in no time. Our certified beauty specialists will work with you to determine which treatments best suit your needs and help you achieve your perfect summer body this spring.

With our Gym and Beauty Spa on your side, there’s no limit to what you can achieve. So why wait? Start your journey to a confident, beach-ready body today!

World Class

6, Avenue Marquet

06320 CAP D’AIL France

+33 4 92 092 092 https://www.wclass.fr/

Credit: Trimedia for World Class Monaco

Credit: Trimedia for World Class Monaco

Credit: Trimedia for World Class Monaco

Credit: Trimedia for World Class Monaco

Model: Alexandra Zabelina

Trainer: Maxence Picardet

Monaco offers the most unique choice of business and leisure events every single year, and it seems that the choice is getting richer and richer every time. This year is not an exception and the Principality is ready to host world-class events, business and leisure ones. Sponsors and participants flock from all over to attend them. Hello Monaco has prepared for you a selection of key events for the upcoming period. We suggest you buy tickets and reserve places in advance to be sure you’ll definitely have prized invitations to your favourite events. And don’t forget to save the dates in your personal organizer!

Superyacht Chef Competition

April 4

Nine chefs working on 40+m superyachts have a rendezvous with the Superyacht Chef Competition. With 40 minutes to prepare a mouth-watering dish from a surprise bag of ingredients, and impress the jury, all whilst being live streamed around the world, who will make it through to the final! Held under

the aegis of YCM’s La Belle Classe Academy training centre, the competition puts the spotlight on gourmet cuisine at sea, another facet of yachting professions.

https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/ home/

https://ru.freepik.com/

Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters

This year the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters will be held from 6 April to Sunday 14 April, at the Monte-Carlo Country Club. The Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters is one of the oldest tournaments in the world of tennis. Previously known as the “Monte-Carlo Tennis Championship”, the famous competition on

April 6–14

clay originated in 1897. It is now part of the Masters 1000, a category of events organised by the ATP that includes nine tournaments staged annually in Europe, North America and Asia.

www.montecarlotennismasters.com

Rafael Nadal with his eleven victories is the absolute star of the tournament in Monte-Carlo.

© Realis

Padel Best Expo

April 7–9

From 7 to 9 April 2024, the host, Monaco’s Grimaldi Forum, has the first edition of the Padel Best Expo, a prestigious exhibition dedicated to the world of padel created by the Italian company BSG, who already had taken the initiative with its first Five Padel Cup. The event is attended by a number of iconic figures. Padel Best Expo also hosts the CUPRA FIP TOUR 2024, worldwide professional circuit of the International Padel Federation. Among the 120 tournaments organised throughout the year and across five continents, a stage is scheduled inside the Grimaldi Forum of Monaco during the Padel Best Expo with a competition dedicated to the players taking part in this prestigious championship. Five tournaments will be held simultaneously on the above-mentioned courts over the three days. The aim is to highlight the universality of the sport by bringing together, at the same time and in an exceptional setting, personalities from a wide range of backgrounds.

https://www.grimaldiforum.com/fr/actualites/padel-best-expo-2024

https://www.padelbest.net/

Monte-Carlo Fashion Week

April 22–26

The 12th Monte-Carlo Fashion Week will become one of the most glamorous spring events of the Principality. One of the main goals of the MCFW is to focus on sustainable and ethical fashion and help to raise awareness of the importance of protecting our planet and the life in it, following the guidelines of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco.

https://www.chambremonegasquemode.com/

Monaco E-Prix

April 27

The Monaco E-Prix 2024 will take place on April 27. Free practice sessions, qualifying, races, on-track demonstrations: a dense and varied programme. Since 2021, the electric cars have been driving on the full circuit, thus underlining the technological progress made by the discipline since its creation less than 10 years ago.

www.acm.mc

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

Monaco International Dog Show

May

M4–5 14th Grand Prix de Monaco Historique

May 10–12

https://pixabay.com/

onaco International Dog Show will take place on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 May 2024, in the Principality. The International Monaco Dog Show is pleased to welcome 9 judges from different countries who will make their verdict designating the best subject of the exhibition. The Dog Show will be held under the aegis of the Société Canine de Monaco — Monaco Kennel Club chaired by Mélanie-Antoinette de Massy. Not by chance, Monaco International Dog Show is grounded in the history of the Principality, being founded in 1927 by H.S.H. Princess Charlotte who chaired the expo until 1950 when she handed over the presidency to her daughter, Princess Antoinette, and then to Baroness Elizabeth-Ann de Massy who held the post from 2011 until her death in 2020.

https://www.monacokennelclub.com/

This Grand Prix Historique will mark the 14th edition of this prestigious event in the Principality. During two and a half days, all competitors will share their passion for high level motor racing with thousands of fans — on a mythical track where 80 % of the straight lines and turns are exactly the same as in 1929, and still used every year for the most glamorous Grand Prix of the Formula 1 World Championship. Following the great success of the previous edition, the Automobile Club de Monaco has decided to keep the 8 series and classes put in place for 2024 without any changes. The event will culminate in a series of tributes and anniversaries during real races in the authentic and majestic setting of the Principality’s circuit.

www.acm.mc

Ready for IT

May 14–16

The unmissable event for IT decisionmakers! Experience 3 days of business and discussion around digital transformation. The promise of Ready For IT is to bring together, in a friendly environment and around quality content, all the major players in IT, but also start-ups that know how to go beyond the limits of innovation. Articulated around three areas of focus: Cloud, Cybersecurity and Data, the event aims to become a real place of convergence between technological and innovation departments, based on four major pillars: live demonstrations and feedback, one-to-one meetings between suppliers and decision-makers, a forum for presenting innovations and conferences and expert round tables on major trends in the sector.

https://www.ready-for-it.com

© iDlaterale

Cannes Film Festival

May 14–25

The 77th Cannes Film Festival will take place from May 14 to 25 2023. Spring on the Côte d’Azur is the time when the French Riviera begins to wake up after the winter season. In May, the rich and famous flood Monaco and the Côte d’Azur for two reasons: the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix. The American director, screenwriter, and actress Greta Gerwig is to preside over the feature film Competition Jury of this edition. The Cannes Film Festival is an annual film festival held in Cannes, France, which previews new films of all genres, including documentaries, from all around the world. Founded in 1946, the invitation-only festival is held annually at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès.

https://www.festival-cannes.com/en/

The Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses Monte-Carlo

May 22

81st Grand Prix de Monaco F1

During Cannes 2024, the Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses will take place at the iconic Carlton Hotel in Cannes. The venue was immortalized in 1954, when the master of suspense Alfred Hitchcock starred Grace Kelly in his film “To Catch a Thief”. The action of this romantic thriller takes place on the Côte d’Azur. But of all the sets that made this film so beautiful, the audience remembered most of all the Carlton Hotel and still reverberating in their minds, of course, the subsequent fairy tale wedding of Princess Grace to Prince Rainier III.

Decades later, the magic of cinema continues to work and fans of Grace Kelly, who became the beloved Princess of Monaco, are still immersed in warm memories of their idol. This fabulous evening, a fairy tale in itself, held under the high patronage of Prince Albert II of Monaco, is organised by the Noble Monte-Carlo events agency. Delia Grace Noble, opera singer and founder of the company, has already gained an impeccable reputation for organising stylish shows, unforgettable private parties and unique corporate events all over the world.

https://noblemontecarlo.mc

May 23–26

There will be plenty of excitement in the Principality as the 8th round of the 2024 Formula 1 World Championship gets underway over the 4 days in Monaco. The F1 single-seaters won’t be the only ones livening up proceedings on the streets of this legendary track, as the extra series (F2 / F3 / Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup) will also be taking part. Since its creation back in 1929, drivers and teams alike have always relished the challenge of competing around such a narrow circuit through the undulating streets of the glamorous Principality, with countless changes of elevation, tight corners and the famous tunnel. A young Monegasque pilot, Charles Leclerc, will perform on the Monaco circuit on behalf of the Ferrari team. We are sure we are about to enjoy the great spectacle!

https://acm.mc/edition/81e-formula-1-grand-prixde-monaco/

Depositesphotos.com

© ACM - Olivier Caenen

41st Monte-Carlo International Swimming Meeting – Mare Nostrum

June 1–2

The Monaco Swimming Federation is also a founding member of the Mare Nostrum Swim Tour and welcomes swimmers and fans alike on 1–2 June, for the final leg of the 2024 edition! This circuit is unique in the world of swimming, as confirmed today by the presence of a galaxy of international-level swimmers, and is an outstanding technical opportunity for coaches, with three very high-level meetings held over eight days. All the countries of the world come to take part in the Mare Nostrum swimming event.

https://marenostrumswimtour.com/

Top Marques Monaco

June 5–9

Top Marques Monaco is the world’s greatest supercar show on earth. Cutting-edge technology, top performance, sophisticated styling, and even a concern for the environment make the Top Marques Monaco a truly remarkable window onto the supercar industry and the world of luxury. It is predominantly a supercar show but it also showcases other luxury items such as elegant watches, state-of-the-art super boats and bespoke jewellery. This year’s edition of Top Marques will take place from June 5th to 9th, with a greater line-up of supercars, hypercars and transport innovations than ever before. All these wonders will be presented at the show that will be held at the Grimaldi Forum.

https://www.topmarquesmonaco.com

Festival de Télévision de Monte-Carlo

June 14–18

Originally created by Prince Rainier III of Monaco, and now under the Honorary Presidency of Prince Albert II of Monaco, The Monte-Carlo Television Festival has, for more than half a century, presented the very best of television from around the world. The Festival has also been at the forefront in showcasing the highly talented professionals associated with many of the most successful programs in the history of the medium. Offering a blend of global premieres, anniversary tributes, behind-the-scenes panels and signing sessions, the Festival creates a compelling must-attend experience for audiences, press and studios alike and platforms. The Golden Nymph Awards are among the most prestigious prizes in international television, rewarding the best TV programs and actors. Over the course of the Festival, an international jury of leading actors and industry professionals attend screenings of all the programs in the competition. The Festival offers free entry and is open to the public.

https://www.tvfestival.com/

Andriy Govorov who holds the world record in 50 metres butterfly at the Mare Nostrum swimming event in Monaco

Josh Duhamel, an American actor, at the 62nd MonteCarlo TV Festival in 2023

©

Hello Monaco

Fête de la Mer

June 22

Every year St Peter, the patron saint of fishermen, is celebrated in a day-long festival organised by the YCM in partnership with other Monegasque institutions, including Monaco City Hall, Société Nautique de Monaco (rowing club), Association des Pontons de Monaco (pleasure boats), Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, Oceanographic Museum, Club d’Exploration sous-marine de Monaco (scuba diving), and the Association Monégasque de la Protection de la Nature (Environment Protection Association). Port Hercule will once again celebrate the Fête de la Mer during which a large parade will be organised at sea. Sailing, motor, rowing, all units are welcome to participate in this event.

https://yacht-club-monaco.mc/evenements/fetede-la-mer/

11th Monaco Energy Boat Challenge

July 1–6

The Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, this year taking place from 1 to 6 July 2024, is a race with an ambitious finishing line: not just getting there first, but utilising alternative propulsion systems that reduce environmental impact. These could be solar energy, hydrogen, electricity and other renewable energy sources. The competition, which will see the presence of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, has attracted 46 teams from 25 countries, with 31 universities involved. Recently, the Yacht Club de Monaco revealed a cutting-edge addition to Port Hercule: a floating pontoon equipped with a hydrogen generator. This innovative installation, adorned with solar panels, is set to make waves during the upcoming 11th Energy Boat Challenge.

https://energyboatchallenge.com/

Monte-Carlo Jumping International

July 4–6

The Monte-Carlo Jumping International equestrian tournament 2024, which takes place in the heart of Monaco, Port Hercule, is an indicator of the high level of both sports performance and organization of an event. In Monaco, nothing is impossible, even building a giant arena for show jumping, which requires hundreds of tons of special sand to cover the arena. Well-known is that the main initiator of the sports event is Charlotte Casiraghi. Monaco is one of the finest stars on the Longines Global Champions Tour, the prestigious world circuit of 5-star show jumping competitions. Suspense, top-level sport and shared emotions between riders and spectators make the Jumping International de Monte-Carlo a unique and endearing event.

https://www.jumping-monaco.com/

© Jean Ronin for Hello Monaco

Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco

19 Galerie Charles III Avenue de la Madone In the Golden Square

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CERTAINES RENCONTRES MARQUENT POUR TOUJOURS.

BAGUE, CLIPS D’OREILLES ET BRACELETS EN OR BEIGE, OR BLANC ET DIAMANTS.

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