Eleven years ago, on January 7, 2015, the Principality of Monaco celebrated a moment of historic significance when Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene presented their newborn twins, Hereditary Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, to the public from the balcony of the Prince's Palace.
The twins had been born on December 10, 2014, with Princess Gabriella arriving first, followed two minutes later by her brother Jacques. Under Monaco's succession rules, which follow male-primogeniture, Jacques became the hereditary prince and heir to the throne despite being the younger twin.
That January day was declared a public holiday in the principality, allowing citizens to gather and witness the young royals' first official appearance. Held in their parents' arms, the infants symbolized continuity for the House of Grimaldi, one of Europe's oldest ruling families.
The event, steeped in centuries-old tradition, underscored the twins' future roles as representatives of Monaco. It remains etched in the nation's collective memory, a symbolic occasion that continues to resonate with Monégasques.
Photo credits: Direction de la Communication / Palais Princier de Monaco