His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco embarked on a captivating journey to the picturesque communes of Saint-Paul-de-Vence and La Colle-sur-Loup in the Alpes-Maritimes. This wasn’t just a casual visit; it was a deliberate and heartfelt exploration of the enduring legacy of the Grimaldi family, whose historical ties to this charming corner of France run deep.
Echoes of the past: A royal connection to Saint-Paul and beyond
The Grimaldi family’s influence in this region stretches back centuries. In the 18th century, two members of the family served as governors of Saint-Paul, a formidable fortified town whose reach once extended to present-day La Colle-sur-Loup and Roquefort-les-Pins. This rich history is far from forgotten, with a future visit to Roquefort-les-Pins already on the horizon, promising to continue this fascinating historical odyssey.
Saint-Paul-de-Vence: A royal welcome and a Grimaldi milestone
The day’s events kicked off in the enchanting Saint-Paul-de-Vence, where Prince Albert II received a warm welcome from Mayor Jean-Pierre Camilla. Against the breathtaking backdrop of the ancient town, the Prince unveiled a ceremonial plaque, officially inducting Saint-Paul-de-Vence into the prestigious “Grimaldi Historical Sites of Monaco” network. This act served as a powerful testament to the profound connection between the Principality and this historically significant region.
The celebration continued in the Place du Général de Gaulle, where the Prince and mayor addressed a captivated crowd, reflecting on their shared heritage. A truly special moment followed with the unveiling of a totem for the “Grace Patricia Kelly 1955” (GPK’55) trail. This poignant project, brought to life through the lens of photographer Paul Louis and now preserved in Monaco’s Audiovisual Institute, commemorates the beloved Princess Grace’s own visit to the region 70 years prior. The morning concluded with a touching return to the past as Prince Albert II signed the guestbook at the legendary La Colombe d’Or restaurant, mirroring the very signature his mother had left there decades ago.
La Colle-sur-Loup: Reinforcing the bonds of history
In the afternoon, the Prince journeyed to La Colle-sur-Loup, where Mayor Jean-Bernard Mion extended a gracious welcome. The visit culminated in the unveiling of yet another plaque, proudly affirming La Colle-sur-Loup’s rightful place within the “Grimaldi Historical Sites” network. This further solidified the deep-rooted historical bonds between the commune and Monaco.
Through these meticulously planned gestures—the unveiling of plaques, the signing of historic guestbooks, and genuine engagement with local communities—Prince Albert II’s visit wasn’t just a ceremonial affair. It was a vibrant reaffirmation of the living connection between Monaco and the Alpes-Maritimes. It served as a powerful day of reflection, not only on the storied past of the Grimaldi family but also on their unwavering commitment to preserving these precious ties for generations to come.
