Prince Albert and Princess Charlene Attend Blessing of New Bells on Saint-Honorat Island

HSH Prince Albert and HSH Princess Charlene recently graced the historic Saint-Honorat island, located in the picturesque Bay of Cannes, to partake in the blessing of two newly cast bells for the island’s iconic fortified monastery. The visit underscored Monaco's deep historical ties with the site, where the bells, named ‘Marie Augustin’ and ‘Marie Anne’, will soon resonate from the ancient tower, further enriching the spiritual and cultural ambiance of this revered landmark.

The princely couple was cordially received by Father Abbot Vladimir Gaudrat and given a guided tour of the monastery, a revered structure declared a “Historic Monument” and currently under meticulous restoration. Slated for a public unveiling in the summer of 2025, the monastery promises to offer insight into its storied past and the monastic life that has thrived there for centuries.

The ceremonial highlight of their visit took place at the abbey church where, after participating in a solemn mass, Prince Albert and Princess Charlene proceeded to the church’s forecourt for the official blessing of the bells. The couple has the distinct honor of being named the godparents of ‘Marie Augustin’, a bell that pays homage to Augustin Grimaldi, a commendatory abbot of Lérins and historic lord of Monaco, whose influential leadership played a crucial role in the principality’s history.