Monaco’s Prince Albert II Marks 20th Anniversary with Palace Celebration

 

Prince Albert II of Monaco is set to mark a significant milestone in his reign with a public celebration at the Prince’s Palace this summer, commemorating 20 years since he ascended to the throne.

The Principality’s sovereign, who officially became ruler in 2005 following the passing of his father, Prince Rainier III, has invited Monegasques, residents, and visitors to join in a day of festivities at the historic Palace Square on July 12, 2025.

According to the official statement released by the Palais Princier, the event will feature a blend of cultural performances, musical entertainment, and an address from Prince Albert himself. The celebration aims to honor both the legacy of the Grimaldi family and the modernization efforts spearheaded by Prince Albert during his two decades of leadership.

“This anniversary is not only a personal milestone for His Serene Highness but also a moment of unity and pride for the people of Monaco,” the statement read. “All are welcome to take part in this historic day.”

Prince Albert II has been widely recognized for his commitment to environmental conservation, innovation, and international diplomacy. Under his reign, Monaco has strengthened its reputation as a hub for sustainable development and scientific research, particularly through the work of the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation.

The July celebration is expected to include a ceremonial guard parade, an open-air concert, and a fireworks display over the Port of Monaco, culminating in a festive evening under the stars.

Further details about the schedule and access to the palace grounds will be released by the government in the coming weeks.

The 20th anniversary marks a rare opportunity for the public to join the princely family in celebration — a gesture reflective of Prince Albert’s deep-rooted connection with his people and his ongoing efforts to maintain transparency and accessibility in the principality’s monarchy.

It's Back! Nice Rainbow Festival 2025

 

The Nice Rainbow Festival returns for its third edition from May 10 to 17, 2025, transforming the city into a vibrant celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride, inclusion, and activism.

Organized by the Centre LGBTQIA+ Côte d’Azur, this week-long event coincides with the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia on May 17, and aims to promote equality, diversity, and solidarity through a rich program of cultural and community activities.

Festival Highlights

Saturday, May 10 – Nice Rainbow Village

The festival kicks off with the Nice Rainbow Village at Jardin Albert 1er, a family-friendly space filled with colorful stands, workshops, and performances.

Highlights include:

• Picnic Drag at 12:30 PM: Enjoy a lively outdoor lunch accompanied by drag performances.

• Roundtable Discussions: Engage in conversations on LGBTQIA+ rights and issues.

• High Heels Race at 6:30 PM: A fun and spirited race in high heels.

• Evening Festivities: Live music and entertainment to conclude the day.

  
   
  
  May 10–17 – Citywide Events

  Throughout the week, various venues across Nice will host:

• Film Screenings: Showcasing LGBTQIA+ stories and perspectives.

• Debates and Panels: Discussions on topics such as trans rights and combating discrimination.

• Art Exhibitions: Featuring works by LGBTQIA+ artists.

  
  Saturday, May 17 – March Against LGBTphobia

  The festival culminates on May 17 with a vibrant march through Nice, uniting participants in a stand against LGBTQIA+ discrimination. The event promises music, color, and a powerful message of unity and respect.

  Join the Celebration

  The Nice Rainbow Festival is free and open to everyone, reflecting the city's commitment to inclusivity and human rights. Whether you're a local resident or visiting the French Riviera, the festival offers a welcoming space to celebrate diversity and advocate for equality.

  For more information and the full program, visit the official Nice Rainbow Festival website.

  Come and be part of a week that celebrates love, diversity, and the ongoing fight for LGBTQIA+ rights in the heart of Nice.

Cannes 2025: Queer Palm Unveils Vibrant New Poster by Marie Rouge

 

As the Cannes Film Festival approaches its 78th edition, the Queer Palm—a prestigious award celebrating LGBTQIA+ cinema—has unveiled its 2025 poster, crafted by acclaimed French artist and photographer Marie Rouge. Known for her evocative imagery that blends cinematic aesthetics with emotional depth, Rouge brings a fresh yet timeless perspective to the festival’s visual identity this year.

Marie Rouge: The Artist Behind the Vision

Marie Rouge, who has risen to prominence through her work in fashion, editorial photography, and visual storytelling, is no stranger to capturing human emotion and cinematic ambiance. Her work often explores intimacy, memory, and identity through a lens that is both contemporary and nostalgic.

“It’s a tremendous honor to be entrusted with this year’s poster,” Rouge said in a statement.

Rouge is the latest in a line of artists and filmmakers invited by the festival to interpret its most emblematic symbol. Her selection reflects Cannes' ongoing commitment to celebrating not only cinematic excellence but also visual innovation across creative disciplines.

Celebrating 15 Years of the Queer Palm

Established in 2010, the Queer Palm honors films that explore LGBTQIA+ themes, feminist perspectives, or challenge gender norms within the Cannes Official Selection and its parallel sections. As the award celebrates its 15th anniversary in 2025, the new poster serves as a visual testament to its enduring mission.

Marie Rouge's design not only commemorates this milestone but also encapsulates the spirit of inclusivity and artistic expression that the Queer Palm represents.

Looking Ahead to Cannes 2025

The 78th Cannes Film Festival is set to take place from May 13 to May 24, 2025. With the unveiling of the new Queer Palm poster, anticipation builds for a festival that continues to champion diverse voices and groundbreaking cinema.

For more information on the Queer Palm and its initiatives, visit queerpalm.org.

Breathing New Life into Royal Walls: The Prince’s Palace Restoration Begins

 

The iconic Prince’s Palace of Monaco, a symbol of sovereignty and centuries-old heritage, has embarked on a major renovation project aimed at modernizing the royal residence while preserving its rich historical character. The extensive works come as part of a broader initiative to ensure the palace meets the evolving needs of the Princely Family and future generations.

A Historic Landmark Renewed

Built in 1191 as a Genoese fortress and transformed over centuries into a royal residence, the Prince’s Palace stands as a blend of medieval fortifications and refined Renaissance and Baroque architecture. While regular maintenance has preserved much of its structure and opulence, this latest renovation marks the most comprehensive overhaul in recent decades.

The renovation is not only structural but symbolic, reflecting a commitment by Prince Albert II to maintain Monaco’s cultural legacy while adapting to contemporary standards of living, security, and sustainability.

Scope of the Renovation

According to official sources from the Palace, the renovation covers multiple aspects:

• Structural Reinforcements: Vital areas of the palace are being fortified to ensure seismic safety and long-term resilience, especially in light of new engineering standards.

• Modernized Living Quarters: The residential areas for the Princely Family are being updated with modern amenities, improved energy efficiency, and enhanced comfort—without compromising the architectural integrity of the historic spaces.

• Art Restoration: A team of experts is working meticulously to restore frescoes, tapestries, and antique furnishings, many of which date back to the reign of Prince Honoré II.

• Sustainable Technologies: Solar energy panels, improved water systems, and eco-conscious materials are being integrated into the palace’s infrastructure to align with Prince Albert’s strong environmental values.

• Enhanced Security Systems: Upgraded security and surveillance measures are being discreetly incorporated to ensure the safety of the Princely Family and visiting dignitaries.

  
  Public Access and Tourism

  While certain areas of the palace are closed to the public during renovations, authorities have ensured that key attractions such as the State Apartments and the palace square remain accessible during peak tourist seasons. Guided tours have been adapted to include insights into the ongoing renovation, offering visitors a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the transformation.

  
  A Legacy for the Future

  In a statement, Prince Albert II expressed pride in the project, noting that "preserving the palace is preserving a part of Monaco’s soul. These renovations are not only about restoration—they are about progression, sustainability, and ensuring that the Prince’s Palace remains a vibrant seat of heritage and hospitality for the generations to come."
  

  The renovations are expected to be completed by late 2026, with a grand reopening planned to coincide with Monaco’s National Day festivities. As the works progress, the palace continues to stand as a symbol of continuity and change—bridging the past with the future under the stewardship of Monaco’s beloved royal family.