This weekend Monaco gathered in the Palace Square to celebrate the tenth anniversary of Prince Albert II’s ascension to the throne. The Prince celebrated with his wife, Charlene, Princess of Monaco, and their seven-month-old twins, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella.
The actual date of the anniversary was back on the 6th April, but was celebrated last week. Much of the extended family were in attendance, including Albert’s sisters, Princess Caroline and Princess Stephanie, along with their families.
The event did not involve a balcony appearance as the couple instead chose to join the people down in the square, making the event more informal and intimate.
In support of her husband, Charlene made a speech and surprised the crowds by speaking publicly for the first time in French: the Princess was born in Zimbabwe. She then brought the Prince to tears with her special personal note, calling him ‘the Prince of Hearts, of my heart’.
Albert himself then made a speech, saying how moved he was by the surprise and that he realised he had ‘underestimated her’. Princess Stephanie spoke to reporters also commenting on how moved she was by her sister-in-law’s speech.
The couple were presented with gifts on behalf of the Monegasque people including baptism gifts for Jacques and Gabriella; the twins were christened in May. Some of the gifts for the twins were a 1925 Cartier belt buckle brooch and a Cartier tank watch!
The second day of celebrations consisted of a concert by the former Take That star, Robbie Williams. After introducing Robbie to the stage, Prince Albert and Charlene clearly enjoyed the concert, getting up and dancing to some of his biggest hits, Angels, Rock DJ and Let Me Entertain You.
The weekend appeared to be a great success and it was clear to see just how much the Royal couple were enjoying the celebrations. The next big event for Monaco comes at the end of this month when Pierre Casiraghi, Prince Albert’s nephew, weds Beatrice Borromeo. The religious ceremony will follow on the 1st August.
Featured image: Nebunel1
