In a quiet continuation of centuries-old regional heritage, Monaco’s Princely Family gathered on Tuesday evening, June 23, to observe the traditional celebrations of the Fête de la Saint-Jean.
The observance began in the late afternoon within the historic confines of the Palatine Chapel (Chapelle Palatine). There, Their Serene Highnesses Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène, accompanied by Hereditary Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, participated in the benediction of the Holy Sacrament. The solemn religious service was presided over by His Excellency Monsignor Dominique-Marie David, the Archbishop of Monaco.
Following the chapel service, the Princely Family moved to a terrace of the Princely Palace to observe the centerpiece of the evening’s cultural festivities: the lighting of the traditional batafoegu.
The bonfire, which serves as a symbolic marker of the summer solstice, was accompanied by performances from the local folklore group La Palladienne de Monaco. Dressed in customary attire, the group perpetuated the seasonal tradition by executing a series of coordinated dances around the pyre.
The gathering on the palace grounds brought together both local residents and international visitors, who shared the open-air spectacle alongside the sovereign family in a collective display of community tradition.
Photo Credit: Michaël Alesi / Palais princier