Olga Taran , Founder, Editor-in-Chief of HelloMonaco
Dear Readers,
Welcome to the vibrant summer issue of Hello Monaco magazine, where we celebrate the essence of Monaco through thrilling events, luxurious experiences, and timeless stories.
This season, we revel in the exhilarating world of motorsport. From the unforgettable moments of Formula E to the nostalgia and speed of the 14th Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, we bring you chronicles that capture the heart-pounding excitement of these iconic races. The Monaco Grand Prix made history once again, with our very own Monegasque hero, Charles Leclerc, securing a victory that will be remembered for years to come.
Speed and luxury intertwine as we delve into the opulent festivities surrounding the Bugatti Chiron’s exclusive Monaco GP parties on a superyacht. These events epitomize the glamour and extravagance that define the Monaco lifestyle.
LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER
In our “Did You Know?” section, we uncover the enduring connection between the legendary tenor Enrico Caruso and Monaco, adding a touch of cultural heritage to our pages.
Stéphane Valeri shares his words of wisdom, offering insights into the Principality’s unique charm, while Björn Dahlström gives us a glimpse into his fascinating world.
We also commemorate significant milestones with a tribute to the Rainier III Animal Garden, celebrating 70 years of love and dedication, and the 50th anniversary of the Salle des Étoiles, a venue that has hosted countless memorable events.
Our HM Photo Shoot feature titled “Bold and Seductive Jewellery ORLOV Monte Carlo” captures the essence of luxury and sophistication. This exclusive photoshoot highlights the exquisite craftsmanship and timeless beauty of ORLOV Monte Carlo Jewellery, set against the stunning backdrop of Monte Carlo. Each piece radiates elegance, making it the perfect complement to Monaco’s glamorous lifestyle.
For those seeking the ultimate beachside experience, we present the best beach clubs on the French Riviera, perfect for a summer retreat. Indulge your senses with our top culinary experiences, as we guide you through the finest dining Monaco has to offer.
In our “Made in Monaco” segment, we introduce you to Federico Uribe, a beautiful mind whose creativity knows no bounds.
Immerse yourself in the art de vivre with a visit to Domaine du Fortin, where luxury, calm, and authenticity converge.
We honour the memory of Françoise Hardy, Monaco’s representative at the 1963 Eurovision, celebrating her enduring legacy.
For those with a passion for travel, we take you on a journey to Château La Coste, a wine estate that masterfully blends art and nature. Our travel expert guides you through Goudargues, the “Little Venice of Provence,” a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
As we embark on this summer journey together, we hope you find inspiration, excitement, and a deeper connection to the enchanting world of Monaco.
Publisher assumes no responsibility for the products or services advertised within this publication. Editorial contained within does not necessarily reflect the opinions of HelloMonaco editorial team.
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This magazine was printed following all ecological certificates and rules by a printing company using certified materials.
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EDITORIAL OFFICE
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, FOUNDER: Olga Taran
EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Olga Chereshneva
PROOF-READER: Justin Brisk
TRANSLATOR: Angelina Clibbens
CONTRIBUTORS/WRITERS:
Justin Brisk
Xania Keane
Nicole Laffont
Helena Litvak
Julia Saint-Germain
Natalia Bezruk
Angelina Clibbens
Olga Taran
Olga Chereshneva
DESIGNER: Irina Roina
PHOTOGRAPHERS: Valentin Bréton, Sabine Scheckel
Print run: 20.000 FOUNDED AND PUBLISHED BY HelloMonaco by Olga Taran 2 Avenue des Ligures, 98000 Monaco Registre: 15P08559 COVER PHOTO:
Model: Nour Rizk Photographer: Sabine Scheckel On model: ORLOV Monte Carlo jewellery
Unforgettable Moments: Witnessing The Thrilling Monaco E-Prix From Fairmont Hairpin Curve
Chronicle Of Thrills, Speed And Nostalgia
A 93 Year Record Bites The Dust! Monegasque Leclerc Victorious At The Monaco Grand Prix
Speed Meets Luxury: The Bugatti Chiron’s Unique Monaco GP Parties On A Super yacht
Enrico Caruso: The Legendary Tenor’s Enduring Connection With Monaco
A Place Under The Sun: The Best Beach
Maeght Foundation: 60 Years Of Love
How World-Famous Auctioneer Simon De Pury Brought The Hammer Down On The Work Of Daria Usova For 50,000 Euros At Just 36
Château La Coste: A Walk Through A Wine Estate, Revealing Masterful
The “Little Venice Of Provence”
Grand Ball Of Princes And Princesses:
Night Of Elegance And Artistry At The Carlton
Monaco is one of the hottest and interesting places on the Mediterranean coast eventswise, its cultural and social life being very diverse. There have been several important happenings and news worth recalling over the last few months. We offer you this selection which features a kaleidoscope of noteworthy events that made the headlines in the media.
First edition of the PADEL BEST EXPO lived up to all its promises
For three days (7–9 April), the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco was the setting for an international event devoted to the world of PADEL, a popular sporting discipline accessible to all. The inauguration was attended by Secretary of State Yvette Lambin-Berti, Louis Ducruet, President of the Barbagiuans of Monaco, and Mathilde Le Clerc, President of the National Council’s Education, Youth and Sport Committee. Representatives of FIGHT AIDS MONACO were also present (at various times over the three days) with Mrs Christine Barca and Mr Hervé Aeschbach. Part of the funds raised will be donated to this HIV
charity, founded and chaired by H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie. Several ephemeral PADEL courts were built for the occasion. A “PADEL FORUM” area was also designed to host conferences at various times during the day… in the presence of personalities and participants in the PADEL BEST EXPO. This was an opportunity for the enthusiasts present to (re)discover the sport and its accessibility, in contact with experts in the field. The second edition of the FIVE PADEL CUP took place in the heart of Monaco’s Grimaldi Forum, on the ephemeral PADEL courts. Five competitions were held simultaneously to celebrate the universality of the sport.
VIP SPORTS TOURNAMENT with the likes of Andriy Shevchenko, Fabio Cannavaro, Dario Marcolin and many others in attendance was a hotly contested competition that showed that the competitive spirit is never lost on such legends of sport, and football in particular. Despite this, the two teams representing the Barbagiuans of Monaco, the group chaired by Louis Ducruet, expressed themselves in the finest of ways by reaching the final of the competition undefeated. After a hard-fought match, it was Manuel Vallaurio and Jordan Klein who finally won the tournament, giving the Barbagiuans an extra trophy.
Djokovic’s Defeat, Tsitsipas’ Triumph: The Surprises of the Monte-Carlo Masters
Nothing is predictable and this year’s Rolex Monte-Carlo from 7th to 14th April proved just that. This was the 117th occasion where thousands of French and Italians gather to cheer for their tennis heroes. This year was perfect.
It is the year where the old guard of Nadal, Federer and Djokovic yield. The new hero is Jannik Sinner, in form and fresh off his win in the Australian Grand Slam and Miami. An Italian for the crowds to embrace, cheer and make the Principality rock with
frivolity and excitement. Sinner was showing his brilliance taking some big scalps in the process including Rune… the feverishly excited Italian crowd were just waiting for the award ceremony. Djokovic believers knew their man would stop this upstart Sinner. And he dutifully wound his way through the draw defeating the popular Italian Musetti, revenge for taking Nolo’s scalp last year, and an in-form Alex de Minaur in the quarter-finals. In the semifinals there is Sinner against Tsitsipas and Djokovic against Ruud, which ended with the finals with Tsitsipas versus Ruud. Even as Ruud recovers his form in the second set and makes a game of it, Tsitsipas is unyielding. And the winner of the 117th Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters is Tsitsipas who is the new King of Monte-Carlo. After Nadal he is now Emperor of Centre Court in MonteCarlo. A poignant moment as the Greek ended up in tears at the edge of the court. With this third title in Monte-Carlo and the 11th title of his career, he is in great company here with Masters of Clay Năstase, Borg, and Muster as the most titled players of the Open era behind the GOAT Rafael Nadal who has an untouchable 11 victories to his credit
The 33rd edition of the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles du Maroc was set to kick off in the Principality of Monaco, April 13, 2024. This extraordinary event brings together 400 women from diverse backgrounds, aged from 18 to 71, for a remarkable journey through the Moroccan Sahara. Under the patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco, the race started at the Chapiteau de Fontvielle, with a spectacular send-off expected by enthusiastic crowds. Among the competitors are two Monegasque civil servants, Céline Cottalorda and Sylvie Bertrand, proudly representing the “Meerkats of Monaco” team. Their mission extends beyond the race as they drive across the desert to raise funds for the Panzi Foundation, supporting vulnerable individuals through targeted causes. With 17 nationalities represented among the 200 competing crews, Monaco stands as a beacon of global unity and solidarity.
Stefanos Tsitsipas
SBM signs Partnership with Camille Gottlieb and ‘Be Safe’
Camille Gottlieb, President of ‘Be Safe Monaco’, and Stéphane Valeri, Deputy Chairman of the Société des Bains de Mer, signed a partnership on 16 April. SBM will be financ-
ing two new drivers, allowing a second Be Safe shuttle to run all summer. The partnership comes on the heels of a tragic series of six fatal alcohol-related accidents in Monaco in 2023 alone.
Founded in 2017 by Camille Gottlieb and four of her friends, Be Safe brings night owls home safely by free shuttle in order to prevent accidents linked to alcohol consumption.
New Xpress Lines connect East and West Monaco
The Prince’s Government and the Compagnie des Autobus de Monaco have launched a total of four new express lines in Monaco. The first two new lines connect the East and West of the Principality, while two other lines connect the new Salines car park with Monaco-Ville. Line X3 connects the Larvotto district and the Fontvieille Shopping Centre. The route begins at the Larvotto Terminus and ends at the Albert II terminus. Line X4 goes from the Saint-Roman stop, along boulevard du Larvotto before going through La Dorsale to reach the Albert II terminus alongside the X3 line. One week before the launch of the X3 and X4 bus routes, two other bus routes were launched. The new routes were created to meet the needs of the new Salines Car Park. The car park has 1,790 parking spaces for cars and 100 spaces for twowheeled vehicles and opened to the public on 16 April. The new car park also features two Monabike electric bike stations with a total of 63 attachments installed at -1 and -15 of the car park, which are currently available.
Camille Gottlieb and Stéphane Valeri
12th Monte-Carlo Fashion Week: Sustainability and Diversity on the Catwalk
The twelfth Monte-Carlo Fashion week saw resort and cruise collections and esteemed guests from 22 to 26 April. This year’s fashion shows and presentations revolved around the main themes of sustainability, inclusiveness and diversity. After the official launch at the Principality’s Town Hall, the event continued in the exclusive Yacht Club de Monaco. Godmother of the event, Stella Jean, opened the catwalks with a collection created in collaboration with artisans from Umbria. She gave a sneakpeek at Haiti’s Olympic uniforms, which will be shown to the world during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Beach & Cashmere Monaco by Federica Nardoni Spinetta had an environmental approach by presenting a collection created with recycled sails from the Yacht Club de Monaco, highlighting the theme of circularity. Another highlight was when Chiara Ferragni participated as a mentor for emerging designers by awarding the Haute Couture lingerie brand, Les Dessous de Monaco, which stands out for its entirely Made-inMonaco collection.
Chiara Ferragni
Paws and Royal Prestige: Inside the Glamorous 2024 Monaco International Dog Show
The 2024 Monaco International Dog Show on 4th and 5th of May marked a record-breaking year, boasting a staggering 1,400 dogs from 247 diverse breeds. Held under the grand Chapiteau in Fontvieille, this prestigious event witnessed the gracious presence of Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène, alongside Melanie-Antoinette de Massy, President of the Monaco International Dog Show. The royal couple exuded elegance, with Prince Albert II adorning a tie emblemmed with graceful greyhounds, and Princess Charlène captivating onlookers with her timeless attire. As they strolled through the exhibition, their relaxed demeanor spoke volumes as they lavished affection upon the winning canines. From the majestic Australian Shepherd to the dignified Newfoundland, the showfloor was a mesmerizing display of canine splen -
dour. In the final, it was the Australian Shepherd with a merle blue coat who was elected “best subject of the exhibition”, followed in
and, in third, by a Yorkshire
Photo: Chiappalone
second place by a bushy Pomeranian Spitz
Terrier with long, silky hair.
Chokolashow’s Charity Chocolate Extravaganza Finds Its Winner
The inaugural CHOKOLASHOW, the event showcasing the creative prowess of young artists tasked with sculpting blocks of chocolate, debuted on May 9th within the confines of the unique Riva tunnel carved under the Palace Rock. This year’s thematic inspiration revolved around the vintage racing cars competing in the Monaco Historic Grand Prix, challenging the interpretive skills of the participating sculptors. Caroline Bergonzi, a professional Monegasque artist was also tasked with crafting out-of-competition chocolate-art. Adding a philanthropic dimension, the chocolatey sculptures were sold in an auction orchestrated by Wannenes, raising a total of 5,000 euros which was donated to 8 associations selected by SAS the Prince of Monaco, as well as by Hereditary Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, who also signed a chocolate bar and sold it immediately after. The eight charitable associations within the Principality of Monaco benefiting were: Les Enfants de Frankie, Action Innocence, Passion Sea, Fight Aids Monaco, MAP, AMAPEI, Association de Bienfaisance Eugenio Benedetti Gaglio and Société protectrice des animaux.
Lights, Camera, Compassion: Who Won The
Monaco Charity Film Festival?
The Monaco Charity Film Festival, now in its 19th edition, is an annual celebration of cinema and compassion held in the heart of Monaco, Monte Carlo, this year at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort on May 13th, fast on the heels of the Historic Grand Prix. The festival is not just about showcasing outstanding films with great stories but also about making a meaningful impact on the lives of underprivileged children worldwide. And the festival is an enchanting affair, filled with captivating performances, this year notably by the sons of the singing group Gipsy Kings, accompanied by mesmerizing dance routines. And then the true highlight of the evening was the showing of “Unbroken Ties,” based on a story by Mary K. Yap. “Unbroken Ties,” based on this novel story by Mary K. Yap, clinched the Best Feature Film Award. The Monaco Charity Film Festival gave the film, which had not yet been released, its successful European premiere. It drew praise for its powerful story and stellar performances. “Unbroken Ties” stellar cast included Myanmar Academy Award Winners Htun Aeindra Bo, Lu Min, and Co-Director Grace Swe Zin Htaik. Grace Swe Zin Htaik, a luminary in the film industry with a repertoire spanning over 200 movies, was also honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Prince Albert II, Hereditary Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella at the Chokolashow
Chokolashow
Fantastical World of Cuddly Teddy Bears: Monaco’s Surprise Charity Auction with a Royal Twist
This charming event on May 14th at the Hôtel de Paris centred around the auction of teddy bears by Karelle and Marco Traverso to support the Monaco Disease Power Association, led by Muriel Natali-Laure. The Empire Room was transformed into a fantastical realm filled with balloons, sweets, and, of course, teddy bears. The production was brought to life by kind-hearted partners who created a series of delightful and sugary activities. Generous patrons stepped up to sponsor each teddy bear, resulting in a diverse lineup of 21 endearing stuffed animals. For the second consecutive year, auctioneer Simon de Pury, donning a bear costume, enchanted the audience.
By the auction’s end, a Golden Palm was awarded to the benevolent donors who collectively raised nearly 35,000 euros, surpassing last year’s total. A special highlight of the evening was the Jury’s special Palm, awarded to the surprise “Carabinier Bear,” sponsored by Prince Albert II of Monaco.
This bear, named FIDEON by the Prince— a blend of the Carabinieri Corps’ motto: Honour, Fidelity, and Dedication—stole the show during a private event hosted
by the Moghadam House. What began as a beautiful filmed story became a heartwarming reality, raising nearly 40,000 euros, with more donations pledged.
Record-Breaking Munegu Cup Brings Joy
and
Unity to Stade Louis II
The second edition of the Munegu Cup saw a spectacular turnout, with over 400 eager schoolchildren from the Principality descending upon Stade Louis-II on May 28. Organized in partnership with the Department of National Education, Youth, and Sports (DENJS), this event doubled down on its previous success. This year’s competition saw a notable increase in participants, with about a hundred more children than last year, all brimming with excitement and energy. These young athletes, representing seven Monégasque schools formed forty teams and kicked off the tournament with the group stage matches. The final phase of the tournament delivered nail-biting excitement and unexpected twists. Amidst loud cheers from their classmates, the teams from FANB 1 and Condamine 6 emerged as the finalists. The grand finale, marked by roaring support, culminated in a decisive 3-0 victory for FANB 1. Dmitry Rybolovlev, reflecting on the event, highlighted the growing bond between AS Monaco and the Principality’s football enthusiasts. He expressed his gratitude for the support from the Department of National Education, Youth, and Sports, and emphasized the club’s commitment to fostering a passion for sports among the youth through various initiatives like the Kids Tour, ÜNSEME Cup, and the Munegu Family stand.
Fast Times and Fun: Monaco’s 41st International Swimming Meeting Makes Waves
Mare Nostrum is a series of swimming competitions with three meets around the Mediterranean culminating in the most famous one in Monaco at the Louis II stadium. The very best of the world’s swimmers faced off in Monaco on 1–2 June, to celebrate this 41st edition with spectacular results. And so the Prince Albert II Nautical Center in Monte-Carlo was the epicenter of thrilling swimming action as the 41st International Swimming Meeting concluded. In the Louis-II stadium pool, the elite swimmers delivered performances that broke records left and right. Saturday saw a stunning start when Sunwoo Hwang from Korea set new Mare Nostrum and Monte-Carlo meet records in the men’s 100m freestyle. Hwang clocked in at 47.91 seconds, making him the only swimmer to finish under 48 seconds, leaving his competitors far behind. The women’s 200m freestyle was next, and Siobhan-Bernadette Haughey from Hong Kong didn’t disappoint. She set both Mare Nostrum and meet records with a time of 1:54.53, coming just shy of the world record set by Australian Mollie O’Callaghan in July 2023.
Supercars, Royalty, Celebrities, and Cybertrucks: Top Marques Monaco in Full Throttle
Monaco’s prestigious Top Marques car show kicked off its 19th edition on 5–9 June with an array of exciting new features and historical moments. This year, the event showcased 11 supercar debuts and one of the first regional presentations of the Tesla Cybertruck, drawing automotive enthusiasts and industry leaders from around the globe. The event was set in motion with a grand preview at the iconic Place du Casino, where Prince Albert II made history by becoming the first person in Europe to drive the Tesla Cybertruck. Top Marques Monaco featured a rich program, including halls dedicated to classic cars and supercars, a section for superboats,
an exhibition space for watches and jewelry, an automotive art gallery, and a Ferrari auction in collaboration with MonacoCarAuctions. This year’s show was marked by the debut of nine supercars, including the Aston Martin New Vantage V8, Audi RS6 GT Avant, McLaren Artura Spider, and Porsche Macan Electric. The event also highlights innovations in green technologies and future transportation solutions. In addition to modern marvels, the show pays homage to automotive history with over 60 classic 20th-century sports cars. Highlights include a rare 1937 Mercedes “Silver Arrow” from the National Automobile Museum of Mulhouse and a 1990 Land Rover Defender 110 V8 Nomad from Boutsen Classic Cars.
Upaint Street art Festival raises €31,000 for the Prince Albert II Foundation
Monaco’s Upaint Festival took place on June 7 on the Promenade du Larvotto in the presence of Prince Albert II until 10 June. This eighth edition welcomed the public to admire live painting by twelve international street artists. The festival helped raise public awareness about important environmental causes. Before this year’s auction, 31,000 euros was presented to the Sovereign for the Prince Albert II Foundation. The money was raised during the previous edition. The festival closed with this year’s live auction, curated by the Hôtel des Ventes de Monte-Carlo.
Monaco’s Roca Team Rocks Paris: A Repeat Championship Victory to Remember
In a night that will be remembered for its sheer dominance, Monaco’s Roca Team on 12 June clinched their second consecutive French basketball championship with a decisive victory over Paris Basketball. The game, held at the packed Adidas Arena in Paris, saw the visitors crush their opponents with a stunning
scoreline, wrapping up the series 3-1 in the best-of-five finals. Monaco’s strategy was clear from the outset: take control early and never look back. Coach Saša Obradović emphasized the importance of not allowing the series to extend to a fifth game, a message his players took to heart. This victory not only
solidifies Monaco’s status as the preeminent force in French basketball but also highlights their impressive consistency and resilience. Their path to the title was marked by a series of outstanding performances, including a dominant win in Game 3 and an unyielding display in the deciding Game 4.
Photo:
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Prince Albert II with the participants of the street art festival
The 5th Meeting of the Historical Sites of the Grimaldis of Monaco
The
TOhis year the event was held on 15 and 16 June. This “5th Meeting” sees the communes of Breil-sur-Roya, Bathernay, Ventimiglia, Olivetta San Michele, Airole, Ripacandida, Campagna, Monteverde, Spinazzola, Poggiorsini, Terlizzi and Canosa di Puglia all hosted on Palace Square of the Princely Palace. There are cultural parades and activities, local delicacies to taste, and demonstrations of regional arts and crafts. A spectacular sound and light show on the walls of the Prince’s Palace is the big highlight of this special evening on Saturday 15 June.
Principality of Monaco Welcomes the Olympic Flame
n June 18 the Principality of Monaco celebrated a momentous occasion as the Olympic flame arrived in the city, marking an important milestone in the lead-up to the 2024 Summer Olympics. The event featured the participation of six distinguished Monegasque nationals in the prestigious Olympic Torch Relay.
The relay commenced at 2:15 PM in front of the iconic statue of Juan Manuel Fangio in Port Hercule, a location synonymous with Monaco’s rich motorsport heritage. The celebrated Formula 1 champion Charles Leclerc had the honour of being the first torchbearer, symbolizing Monaco’s excellence in the world of sports.
Other torchbearers were: Alexandra Coletti, the accomplished skier, showcasing Monaco’s prowess in winter sports, XiaoxinYang, a prominent table tennis player, reflecting the diversity of sports in which Monaco excels, and Rudy Rinaldi, the bobsleigh racer adding to the dynamic representation of Monegasque athletes.
The torch relay reached a crescendo at the Place du Palais, where T.S.H. Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène joined the ceremony in front of the statue of Malizia. Their participation underscored the importance of this event to the Principality and its enduring commitment to the Olympic spirit.
Prince Albert II at the 5th Meeting of the Historical Sites of the Grimaldis of Monaco
The princely family and four Monegasque torchbearers in the square in front of the Palace
Witnessing the Thrilling Monaco E-Prix from Fairmont Hairpin Curve
By Justin Brisk
The Formula E World Cham pionship took centre stage in Monaco on April, 27 for the eighth round of the 2024 season. It took place on the famous circuit of the Principality, the same one used for F1, with its 3.337 kilometres and 19 turns with intense competition from 22 drivers. In a captivating showdown, Mitch Evans of Jaguar TCS Racing orchestrated a flawless race, securing his maiden victory in the Principality.
Despite missing out on pole position, Mitch Evans, alongside teammate Nick Cassidy, surged to the forefront, clinching a remarkable double triumph for Jaguar TCS Racing. The day commenced with Evans setting the pace in both free practice sessions, signaling a promising start for the Coventry-based team. However, qualifying setbacks relegated them to less favourable grid positions, setting the stage for a thrilling battle to the finish.
In a testament to Formula E’s unpredictable nature, pole-sitter Pascal Wehrlein faced adversity, slipping from first to fifth during the
race. Meanwhile, the DS Penske duo of Jean-Eric Vergne and Stoffel Vandoorne fiercely contested victory, with Vandoorne securing a historic podium for the team.
Incidents prompted the intervention of two safety cars, adding to the intensity of the competition. Nevertheless, Evans’ victory marked the seventh different winner in eight races, underscoring the championship’s thrilling unpredictability.
Watching the E-Prix 2024 from the Fairmont hairpin curve was absolutely unforgettable. Hello Monaco readers were right there in the heart of all the action! The Fairmont Hotel in Monaco does offer the most incredible view of the famous hairpin curve. It’s a favourite spot for racing fans and tourists alike. You could feel the tension as everyone held their breath while the cars zoomed by. The scenery is simply breathtaking! It’s one of those places that grabs your attention, whether you’re a racing fan or just there to take in the beauty of Monaco. Plus, the atmosphere is filled with energy.
With Evans’ triumph, Jaguar TCS Racing reaffirmed their dominance, solidifying their position at the top of the construc-
tors’ standings with a remarkable double victory. As the season unfolds, Pascal Wehrlein maintains his lead in the drivers’ championship, while Nick Cassidy ascends to second place, leaving reigning champion Jake Dennis to reflect on a challenging outing.
GEN3 EVO
Ahead of this Monaco E-Prix, Formula E and the FIA presented the next generation of car for the series: the GEN3 EVO. This evolution of the current generation of FE cars will make it the single-seater with the fastest acceleration, as it is expected to go from 0 to 100 km/h in 1.82 seconds. This will make its acceleration 30 % faster than that of a Formula 1 car, according to organizers. Another major improvement of this car will be that all four wheels will be powered. However, drivers will only be able to use all-wheel drive during qualifying duels, race starts, and during the Attack Mode. These cars are designed to be faster, more agile, durable, and aggressive.
ROYAL PRESENCE
Prince Albert and Princess Charlène, together with their children Crown Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, attended. Prince Albert presented the trophy to the winner, driver Mitch Evans. As New Zealander Mitch Evans lives in Monaco it is a home win of sorts for the Principality. Meanwhile, the second-place finisher, Nick Cassidy, received his prize from Princess Charlène.
MONACO HOME TEAM MASERATI
Adifficult race for the team. With both cars starting inside the top 10, Maserati had a reasonable hope of scoring a double points finish. The start of the race went well and Max Günther did an excellent job to move into the top five. After that, things didn’t go as planned. Surrounded by a lot of drivers who were teammates meant that team games played with strategy won out. At one stage, Maserati were on course for a top six finish but Max had an incident with Oliver Rowland. It was hard racing, but fair, but it cost three positions. The race could have been better, but the home team scored points which is the main thing. Jehan Daruvala did a great job and was set for a good finish but had an issue with the Attack Mode activation which Maserati engineers are investigating.
Monaco can be tricky and this race was no exception. At the start Max and Jehan managed to gain some positions and were consistent and hungry for most of the race. Max was able to gain valuable points by finishing in the top 10 — he never gave up until the chequered flag — and Jehan showed that he is capable to fight in the top 10 among the top drivers
Maserati has showed its best in 2022, when it ended the season in second place for teams worldwide. Led by Chairman and Managing Partner Scott Swid, the Monaco-based brand, head-quartered only 500 metres from the track, is the most genderdiverse team in Formula E and is at the forefront of sustainability: it promotes the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion, technical innovation and excellence.
The winner Mitch Evans is receiving the trophy from Prince Albert II and Hereditary Prince Jacques.
The award ceremony in the presence of the Princely family.
Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco
Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco
MONACO’S HISTORIC GRAND PRIX: A Chronicle of Thrills, Speed and Nostalgia
By Justin Brisk
Step into the past and buckle up for a thrilling ride through the annals of motorsport history. It is the 14th Grand Prix de Monaco Historique. Over three exhilarating days, this iconic event transformed the streets of Monaco into a nostalgic playground.
Photo: Valentin Bréton for Hello Monaco
A JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY
From the roaring engines of pre-war classics to the sleek lines of 1980s speedsters, the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique showcases the evolution of motorsport over eight distinct eras. What began as a celebration of Monaco’s rich racing heritage in 1997 has blossomed into a biennial extravaganza, attracting over 200 cars and capturing the hearts of motorsport aficionados worldwide.
The event is spread across three actionpacked days offering a tantalizing lineup of races and events. From training laps on the Friday to qualifying sessions on Saturday, and then the main races on Sunday each moment is a testament to the passion and dedication of drivers and teams. As the engines roared and the cars thundered through the streets of Monaco, spectators were transported through time, witnessing the evolution of race cars with each passing lap. From the simplicity of pre-war machinery to the technological marvels of the 1980s, every corner offers a glimpse into the relentless pursuit of speed and innovation.
The excitement didn’t end there. Within each series, a set of races unfold, culminating in a gripping showdown on race day. From pole position battles to wheelto-wheel duels, every moment is charged with adrenaline and anticipation.
GREAT CARS … GREAT DRIVERS
The 14th Historic Grand Prix is all about almost a 100 years of great cars and great drivers. And. the greatest Drivers are honoured by naming each race after them. The list of races for the « 14th Historic » says it all:
Race A1 – Monaco Hero Louis CHIRON : Pre-war Grand Prix cars and Voiturettes
Race A2 – Juan Manuel FANGIO : Frontengine Grand Prix cars built before 1961
Race B – Graham HILL : Rear-engine, 1500, F1 Grand Prix cars from 1961 to 1965 and F2
Race C – Vittorio MARZOTTO : Front-engine Sport Racing cars from 1952 to 1957
Race D – Jackie STEWART: F1 Grand Prix cars 3L from 1966 to 1972
Race E – Niki LAUDA : F1 Grand Prix cars 3L from 1973 to 1976
Race F – Gilles VILLENEUVE : F1 Grand Prix cars 3L from 1977 to 1980
Race G – Ayrton SENNA : F1 Grand Prix cars 3L from 1981 to 1985
Here is flashback, by decade since 1924, on cars and drivers in the spotlight in 2024:
l 100 years ago (1924), the iconic Bugatti 35 was unveiled in Lyon, then winning the first two editions of the Monaco Grand Prix in 1929 and 1930
in its compressor version. In 1984, Automobile Club de Monaco organized a Bugatti race to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the legendary Bugatti 35;
l 9 0 years ago (1934), the Mercedes single-seaters that won the last three prewar Monaco Grand Prix races in 1935, 1936 and 1937, appeared. Also appearing on the circuits in 1934 was ERA (winner of the first Prince Rainier Cup in 1936, monopolizing the podi um).
Prince Albert II and Thierry Boutsen
Before the Série C race
THE 14TH GRAND PRIX DE MONACO HISTORIQUE
ERA was again on the starting grid in 1950 for the 1st edition of the Monaco Grand Prix, counting for the brand-new Formula 1 World Championship;
l 7 0 years ago (1954), Mercedes was still at the top of the bill, with the appearance of the W196 which crushed the Grand Prix scene in 1954 and 1955, Juan-Manuel Fangio winning World Championship titles in the same two years. Also in 1954, the appearance of the Maserati 250F left no one indifferent. The Italian cars were present in Monaco from 1955 to 1959, winning twice: in 1956 with Juan-Manuel Fangio, and in 1957 with Stirling Moss at the wheel;
l 60 years ago (1964), John Surtees, already a multiple Moto World Champion, also became one in Formula 1 with Ferrari. The Englishman was always present at the start of Monaco Grand Prix from 1960 to 1971, making 12 appearances. Later, Surtees became a full-fledged brand and manufacturer in the discipline, his single-seaters taking part of the Monaco Grand Prix between 1971 and 1978;
l 50 years ago (1974), the short-lived Hesketh brand entered the discipline. A young and flamboyant Lord, Thomas Alexander Fermor-Hesketh, along with his driver James Hunt, gave F1 a glamorous image in keeping with that of the Principality. It was also the year of the revelation for engineer Harvey Postlethwaite, who not only designed the first Hesketh, but also the Wolf WR1 which won three Grands Prix in its very first season in 1977, including the Monaco GP with the experienced Jody Scheckter at the wheel;
l finally, 40 years ago (1984), Ayrton Senna‘s already proven talent, in his modest Toleman-Hart, shone through when he took 2nd place in the rain, behind Alain Prost, at the 5th Grand Prix of his F1 career, held under torrential downpours in Monaco.
SENNA PARADE AND GRAND PRIX HISTORIQUE 2024 FINAL RESULTS
Pr ince Albert II participated in the 14th Monaco Historic Grand Prix parade, which paid tribute to the
memory of Ayrton Senna on 11 May. Bruno Senna (Ayrton Senna’s nephew), Thierry Boutsen and Charles Leclerc all joined the Prince in commemorating the triple F1 world champion and six-time winner of the Monaco Grand Prix. Ayrton Senna lost his life thirty years ago, on 1 May 1994, after a crash on the Imola circuit.
Five of the racing legend’s cars were featured in the parade, from the kart he drove to become South American champion in 1977 to his 1990 McLaren MP4/5 B. Behind the wheel of Senna’s 1985 Lotus 97T was non other than Thierry
Boutsen. Ayrton Senna won the Monaco Grand Prix race more times than any other driver, with six victories (including five consecutive wins between 1989 and 1993) and his record remains unbeaten to this day.
Those nostalgic for the “F1 of yesteryear” and so many fans of Ayrton Senna, attended this exceptional parade in honour of the great Brazilian champion, organised by the Automobile Club de Monaco (ACM), in close collaboration with the Instituto Ayrton Senna, Lotus Héritage and the McLaren Academy.
Participants in the Série A1 race
Here is more information on the beautiful Senna iconic racing machines paraded:
Senna’s go-kart in 1977
At the wheel of this go-kart, 17-year-old Ayrton Senna became South American Champion in 1977, during a race organised in Uruguay, in the town of San José. Young Senna also finished 2nd at the Brazilian Championship, on the Interlagos track. This go-kart now belongs to McLaren F1 Team Principal Zak Brown.
Formula Ford 2000: Senna’s Van Diemen RF82 in 1982
After a very successful 1981 season (12 wins in 20 Formula Ford 1600 races, British Champion), Senna discovered the Van Diemen RF82 equipped with a much more powerful 2-litre engine. At just 22 years of age, he went on to win a record number of races (22) and the European Championship title.
The Kart and Van Diemen RF82 were driven by Gabriele Bortoleto and Cristina Gutiérrez, two McLaren “Drivers Academy” drivers.
Formula 3: the Ralt RT3 at the 1983 Macau Grand Prix
The 1983 Formula 3 season was dominated by an insatiable Ayrton Senna, despite the formidable competition from a young Englishman, Martin Brundle, who gave him a hard time. The Brazilian came even closer to F1 by finishing British Champion with 12 victories. On November 20, 1983, Senna rounded off his masterclass with a prestigious victory at the Macau Grand Prix, at the wheel of this Toyota-powered Ralt RT3 entered by West Surrey Racing team and local billionaire Teddy Yip.
The Ralt RT3 was driven by Eddie Irvine, Formula 1 World Championship runner-up in 1999 and Senna’s teammate at the time.
Formula 1: the 1984 Toleman TG184
This was the first F1 car driven by Ayrton Senna in the World Championship. Designed by Rory Byrne, it was very heavy, without power steering and powered by a British turbo engine, a Hart with around 600bhp. He scored three podiums in this
A moment in the Série F qualification
Claudia Hürtgen won the Série A2 race of the 2024 Historic Grand Prix of Monaco, onboard a Ferrari Dino 246.
CRASHES IN THE HISTORIC GRAND PRIX
Motorsport still means crashes. Fortunately nowadays, and much due to pioneering work by Jackie Stewart on safety, crashes are rarely fatal. And let’s admit it, crashes are spectacular and you certainly get your fair share at the “Historic”.
Charles Leclerc in 2022
Surely you will be surprised to see the name Leclerc pinned to a crash in the Historic. Formula 1 points leader at the time Charles Leclerc crashed an ex-Niki Lauda classic Ferrari Grand Prix car during a demonstration run at the 2022 Monaco Historic event. The 2022 Bahrain and Australian GP winner was on his third lap aboard the 1972 Ferrari 312B3 as part of a parade alongside ex-Ferrari driver and six-time Le Mans 24 Hours victor Jacky Ickx. There he lost the rear of the 312B3 into the famous La Rascasse right-hander.
Leclerc backed out of the barriers but pulled up on the
main straight with smoke wafting from the rear of his car, and Ickx stopped a little further up the road in his earlier 312B. A frustrated-looking Leclerc and a pair of marshals inspected the damage before chatting with Ickx. He later tweeted: “When you thought you already had all the bad luck of the world in Monaco and you lose the brakes into rascasse with one of the most iconic historical Ferrari Formula 1 cars.”
Jean Alesi and Marco Werner in 2021
The Historic Grand Prix has its fair share of exciting incidents for spectators. They often involve controversy especially when it costs a driver a winning place on the podium.
After not taking place in 2020, the Historic Grand Prix of Monaco finally went ahead in 2021 and featured a huge number of famous drivers and cars from Formula 1’s history. One such
car, including his famous 2nd place in Monaco, behind Alain Prost, in torrential rain that prompted Jacky Ickx to wave the red flag.
They remain the only three podium finishes in the history of the British team founded by Ted Toleman.
The Toleman was driven by Stefan Johansson a Swedish racing driver who drove in Formula One for both Ferrari and McLaren, among other teams.
Formula 1: the 1985 Lotus 97T
Powered by a 1.5-litre Renault V6 turbo engine developing 760bhp, the Lotus 97T (T for turbo) was the F1 car in which the future “Magic Senna” won his first two
driver was Canadian Grand Prix winner Jean Alesi. He lined up on the grid in the Ferrari 312B3 that Niki Lauda drove for the entirety of 1974, his first year with the Italian team, and for the first two races of his title-winning campaign in 1975.
Lining up in P2 behind three-time Le Mans 24 hour winner Marco Werner, who was in the 1976 Lotus, Alesi flew off the line to take the lead at the start. With slightly more modern and quicker machinery, Werner had much more pace and immediately began to pressure the Frenchman but couldn’t find a way through on the narrow streets of Monte-Carlo, coming perilously close to hitting the back of his rival on a number of occasions. With three laps to go, he finally did so, clipping the Ferrari on the start/finish straight, sending Alesi into the barriers and out of the race.
Werner crossed the line first but was handed a penalty for the incident that
dropped him back down to P3, meaning that the McLaren M26 of Michael Lyons claimed victory.
Harsh words followed when Jean Alesi and Marco Werner both spoke out following this controversial clash in a historic Formula 1 race at Monaco. “When there is no space, you cannot pass,” Alesi said afterwards.
Alesi was critical of his German rival: “… I was enjoying it, sliding this fantastic car around the streets of Monaco, but twice he touched me out of the chicane” said the 1995 Canadian Grand Prix winner. “He had a lot more torque than my car. Already that’s a warning …”
But Werner, who says a clutch issue hampered his start and helped Alesi jump ahead, was also unhappy with the Ferrari driver. “I was the faster one. Unfortunately, he missed a shift and I was just too close to avoid contact. That’s it… I would never have done it on purpose,” said Werner.
A moment in the Série B race
Grands Prix, at Estoril and Spa-Francorchamps. It was equipped with several liquid crystal displays in the cockpit, a novelty at the time. It was a delight for Senna, who was very data-hungry. This now legendary single-seater also enabled the Brazilian to take his first seven pole positions, all in 1985.
This Lotus 97T was driven in the Parade by Belgian Thierry Boutsen, who has won three times in F1 and who finished on the podium 15 times.
Formula 1: the 1990 McLaren MP4/5B
This McLaren MP4/5B was driven in 1990 by Ayrton Senna and his new team-mate Gerhard Berger, following Alain Prost’s departure to Ferrari. It was an evolution of the previous season’s MP4/5, fitted with a new Honda V10 engine. This model took 6 victories and 12 pole positions that year, which concluded with two new world titles, drivers’ and constructors’, for Senna and McLaren. And there was a spectacular finale at Suzuka, when the Brazilian deliberately eliminated his great French rival. In
the Parade in the streets of Monaco, this amazing single-seater was driven by Bruno Senna, the nephew of the three-time world champion, who competed in 46 F1 Grands Prix.
WINNERS OF THE 14TH EDITION OF THE GRAND PRIX HISTORIQUE DE MONACO
And following Saturday’s emotional Parade was Sunday’s finale of the races in the 14th Grand Prix Historique. On race day the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique delivered a spectacle as each car crossed the finish line. History was made anew, ensuring that the legacy of Monaco’s racing heritage continues to inspire generations.
Race A2 – Juan Manuel FANGIO : Claudia Hürtgen (Germany)
Race B – Graham HILL : Andy Middlehurst (Great Britain)
Race C – Vittorio MARZOTTO: Max SmithHilliard (Great Britain)
Race D – Jackie STEWART: Katsuaki Kubota (Japan)
Race E – Niki LAUDA : Stuart Hall (Great Britain)
Race F – Gilles VILLENEUVE : Michael Lyons (Great Britain)
Race G – Ayrton SENNA: Stuart Hall (Great Britain)
Stuart Hall received the Prince Albert II Cup and also a special cup as the winner of the Série G ‘Ayrton Senna’ race.
A participant in the Série D race
An unforgettable moment: Charles Leclerc, visibly joyful and elated, is on top of the Monaco Grand Prix podium!
A 93 YEAR RECORD BITES THE DUST! MONEGASQUE LECLERC VICTORIOUS AT THE MONACO GRAND PRIX
By Justin Brisk
Looking at the vista of the flotillas of incredible luxury yachts stretched to the horizon and the whole Principality primed to party the 2024 Grand Prix weekend promised something special. The excitement and tension was palpable. It was 93 years ago that a Monegasque Louis Chiron won his home Grand Prix. Nearly a century later this feat was in the sights of the brilliant new world champion contender Charles Leclerc driving for Ferrari. The stakes for this, one of the greatest shows on earth, the jewel of the Grand Prix races, are high.
Prince Albert II celebrating a historical success with Charles
It’s also the 30th anniversary of Ayrton Senna’s death at the wheel, racing. Tributes to him abound and his record of 8 Qualifying wins in a row was in the front of everyone’s mind. Reigning world champion Max Verstappen had just equalled that at Imola, prior to Monaco. Bitter-sweet for Monegasque Charles Leclerc who was himself “Prince of Qualifying in waiting” only to see the title almost cruelly snatched away from him early in the 2024 season by the Dutchman. And now Verstappen had a chance to break that record this weekend. But Charles Leclerc, the master at winning poles, would say something about that.
McLaren, winners of more Grand Prix than any other, are also on a tear. They are back in form and threatening Red Bull’s dominance; not to mention a thorn in Leclerc’s side. Orlando Norris and Oscar Piastri have no fear of Red Bull or Ferrari. But it would be Monegasque Charles Leclerc
who would give his all, throwing in the kitchen sink to take the crown at last.
AND THE 2024 DRAMA UNFOLDS
Rain, crashes, mechanical problems, pit disasters it’s all happened before. We are about to find out that 2024 had its share of that. And the first obstacle the Qualifying Round assumed absolutely vital importance.
After the first runs in Q3, Piastri for McLaren was just 0.026s behind Leclerc’s Ferrari at the top of the charts, but the Monegasque driver found nearly two-tenths to lower his time and put pole out of Piastri’s reach. Verstappen was dangerously perched in third, but striking a wall on his final attempt fell to sixth. Sainz, Norris and George Russell snared the remainder of the top five places. Verstappen,
who was charged-up ready to break Ayrton Senna’s record of eight straight pole positions … instead will be a lowly sixth, his worst start since 11th in Singapore last season.
When McLaren’s Oscar Piastri, who was to go on to qualify and finish second, returned to the pits after his run, he looked at the timing sheets and reportedly asked his team: “Is Leclerc’s time real?” After the session, Max Verstappen also reportedly said Leclerc was “miles ahead”.
So he’s back, the pole-master! This is Leclerc’s third pole here. It’s the race he has geared himself up to win over all others. So what if he didn’t finish on the podium in his five previous appearances … persistence featured in this his daring determination to win. In 2021, he was on pole but a crash in qualifying damaged his driveshaft put him out of the race. Then in 2022, once more starting from the front of the grid, Ferrari scuppered
his chances with a ruinous strategy. Luck had abandoned him on his very doorstep. Third time lucky has a good ring to it but Leclerc could not bank on it.
Theoretically qualifying is the hardest part of the weekend in Monte-Carlo but Leclerc knew only too well he and his Ferrari team had to now execute with absolute precision. He would finally kiss goodbye to that early Monaco curse.
RED FLAG DRAMA AT THE START OF THE GRAND PRIX
The Monaco Grand Prix began with high drama as the race was halted just seconds after the start,
Imarked by multiple incidents at the front and rear of the grid. Pole-sitter Charles Leclerc managed a clean getaway, navigating through Sainte Dévote without issue. However, trouble brewed behind him as Oscar Piastri and Carlos Sainz collided at the first corner. The contact left Sainz with a front-left puncture, forcing him to stop at the exit of Massenet. Simultaneously, a more significant incident unfolded up Beau Rivage.
Kevin Magnussen, attempting to overtake Sergio Perez, clipped the rear of Perez’s Red Bull, sending both cars crashing into the wall at high speed. The chaos also ensnared Nico Hulkenberg, who had nowhere to go and became part of the wreckage. Adding to the turmoil, Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly, both from Alpine, clashed
t has featured two of the greatest races ever and been won by a spy and by the driver widely acknowledged as the greatest of all time… twice! We know it as the jewel in the crown of Grand Prix races, Charles Leclerc’s home Grand Prix, that of the Principality of Monaco.
Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of legends such as William Grover-Williams, Louis Chiron, Fangio, Prost “the Professor”, the Red Baron Michael Schumacher and the incomparable Ayrton Senna. Not to mention modern greats Lewis Hamilton and emerging great Max Verstappen… and
at Portier. Ocon’s aggressive move resulted in his car briefly going airborne, while Gasly vented his frustration over the radio.
With debris scattered across the track and damaged barriers, Race Control swiftly issued a red flag, halting the race and bringing the cars back to the pits for repairs and tyre changes.
FINALLY FINALLY … CHIRON’S RECORD IN SIGHT
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc held his nerve on the restart to convert pole position at his home Monaco Grand Prix into a controlled victory after that
the current Monegasque world champion contender Charles Leclerc.
Did you know there are two Monegasque winners? Considering Monaco’s native Monegasque population consists of only about 10.000. That is nothing short of a miracle.
The Monaco Grand Prix could well be titled “the greatest show on earth” given its popularity and legend. Read on to find out who was the ultimate star of the show in 2024 and why that energized a nation!
Charles is driving his Ferrari towards the dream success of a life-time.
The princely couple, showing great emotion themselves, congratulating a new national hero.
huge first-lap pile-up. The collision between the two Haas cars and Red Bull’s Sergio Perez that caused the red flag led to a race of extreme tyre management by the leaders.
POLES & WINS
Leclerc controlled McLaren’s Oscar Piastri, team-mate Carlos Sainz and McLaren’s Lando Norris all race without any of them making a pit stop to take Ferrari’s second win of 2024. France striker Kylian
Monaco’s narrow streets make it famously difficult to overtake. But do you think that capturing pole position guarantees a win. Think again:
Charles Leclerc grabbed pole twice and failed to win. It took three poles to claim the ultimate prize. And famously Jim Clark took pole position at Monaco four times, yet never claimed victory at the track! And even the great Fangio also failed to win twice when he was on pole, just like Monegasque Charles Leclerc (though also won twice when he was).
And if you are not on pole, a bit of rain helps to produce spectacular surprises and memorable upsets and wins. Stretching a famous quote from Shakespeare’s Richard III, if you are not on pole shout: “Rain, rain my kingdom for some rain”.
Last five Monaco GP pole-sitters:
l 2024 — Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
l 2023 — Max Versstappen(Red Bull)
Mbappé had the honour of waving the Monegasque driver over the line.
Charles Leclerc has finally got his winning Monaco moment after waiting a very long
l 2022 — Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
l 2021 — Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
l 2019 — Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
In those qualifying trials for the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix
Mercedes pilot Lewis Hamilton took the pole position with an incredible record-setting lap time of 1 minute 10.166 seconds continuing on to win Monaco for the third occasion.
Last five Monaco GP winners:
l 2024 — Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
l 2023 — Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
l 2022 — Sergio Perez (Red Bull)
l 2021 — Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
l 2019 — Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
Lap record: 1:12.909, Lewis Hamilton (set in 2021).
Fastest Monte-Carlo race in history also in 2021 set by Max Verstappen with 157.833 km/h average speed.
time to experience victory on home soil. The party went on long into the night for the Ferrari driver’s first win and podium in the Principality. Prince Albert was obviously delighted hugging Charles in celebration.
So Charles Leclerc has won the F1 Monaco GP after avoiding that monster of an accident. The local boy has won his home grand prix for the first time, leading from start to finish. He did not put a foot wrong.
Leclerc had long appeared destined to win this race, yet fate seemed to continually obstruct his path. In the end, these obstacles only made his eventual victory all the sweeter. Leclerc is the first-ever Monegasque driver to win the Monaco Grand Prix in the world championship era, and the first since Louis Chiron in 1931, which was the third edition of the race. 26-year-old Leclerc is also now second
only to the legendary Michael Schumacher in the list of Ferrari pole-sitters.
A ROYAL CELEBRATION FOR LECLERC’S TRIUMPH
In a scene that epitomized joy and national pride, Prince Albert II of Monaco, accompanied by members of his family, celebrated Charles Leclerc’s monumental victory. A Royal Hug says it all. The air was filled with excitement as Leclerc, fists raised, shouted, “Tonight is going to be a big night!”
From their vantage point, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène watched the jubilant paddock below, the cacophony of yacht horns from Port Hercule adding to the festive atmosphere. As Leclerc approached
the podium, an emotional Prince Albert descended to meet him. In a touching moment, the Prince embraced the victorious driver, sharing heartfelt words before they stood together atop the podium. The scene was crowned by the playing of the Monegasque national anthem, a fitting tribute to Leclerc’s historic win.
That’s a 25 point win to Charles compared to Verstappen’s 6th place 8 points … which puts Charles after Monaco within 31 points reach of the world championship. Everyone thought it was over and Verstappen was a shoe-in. It’s absolutely not over. And new contender Lando Norris for McLaren is just 25 points back from Charles following the Monaco Grand Prix breathing down his neck too.
It’s all on the line for the remainder of the season … Go Charles! In the Monegasque language: DAGHE CHARLES!
The Bugatti Chiron’s Unique Monaco GP Parties on a Superyacht
The Monaco Grand Prix, a cornerstone of the Formula 1 calendar, is synonymous with luxury, celebrity appearances, and extraordinary spectacles. This year’s 81st running of the Monaco GP continued this tradition with a remarkable display of opulence: a bright blue Bugatti Chiron was showcased on the deck of the superyacht named “Seven Sins.”
Hello Monaco welcomed their guests on this 52-metre luxury yacht. It was the most soughtafter venue to watch the race and enjoy exclusive parties, making it an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
A COLLABORATION OF VISIONARIES
In an extraordinary demonstration of wealth and style, Film Director Tom Claeren, in collaboration with Libertex Europe Official, HelloMonaco, the premier media outlet in Monaco, and Boutsen Classic Cars, orchestrated this breathtaking event. Claeren’s team had already set a high standard last year by displaying a Ferrari F40 on a yacht during the Grand Prix. This year, they elevated the spectacle by showcasing the Bugatti Chiron, a modern marvel of engineering and luxury.
THE BUGATTI CHIRON: ENGINEERING MASTERPIECE
The Bugatti Chiron, finished in iconic French Racing Blue, was delicately hoisted onto the yacht’s deck using a crane. This process was both intricate and risky, requiring exceptional precision and careful handling to ensure the multi-milliondollar hypercar was safely placed on the yacht’s bow. The operation was meticulously documented and shared on Tom Claeren’s Instagram, capturing the dramatic moment when the Bugatti was
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
DJ Rampa final F1 party at the «Seven Sins»
suspended mid-air before being gently positioned on the yacht. The presence of the Bugatti Chiron on the “Seven Sins” superyacht served as a testament to the event’s status as a pinnacle of sophistication and extravagance.
ART ON THE WATER
The inclusion of Joseph Klibansky’s artwork on “Seven Sins” highlighted the event’s dedication to celebrating not just speed and luxury, but also creativity and artistic expression.
Positioned strategically on the yacht, Klibansky’s thought-provoking artworks became a focal point for guests and onlookers alike. The combination of the stunning Mediterranean backdrop and the sleek lines of the yacht provided the perfect setting for his art. It reinforced the idea that the Monaco Grand Prix is a multifaceted event, offering something for everyone, from racing enthusiasts to art aficionados.
DAILY PARTIES AND CELEBRATIONS
Every day of the “Seven Sins” was marked by exclusive parties, curated by a renowned chef, each one more lavish than the last. Attendees were treated to a vibrant atmosphere filled with high-profile guests, flowing champagne, and stunning views of the race. These gatherings were the epitome of Monaco’s social scene, providing a perfect blend of glamour and excitement.
GRAND FINALE: DJ RAMPA PARTY
The festivities reached their peak on the final night with an incredible party featuring DJ Rampa. Known for his electrifying sets and unique sound,
DJ Rampa delivered a performance that kept the energy high and the crowd dancing well into the night. This grand finale was a fitting end to a week of unparalleled luxury and celebration, leaving guests with unforgettable memories of the Monaco Grand Prix.
Joseph Klibansky and «The Thinker»
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
ENRICO CARUSO:
The Legendary Tenor’s Enduring Connection with Monaco
By Justin Brisk
Enrico Caruso, born on February 25, 1873, in Naples, emerged from humble beginnings as a steelworker’s son to become one of the most iconic tenors in the history of opera. Now, 150 years after his birth, we delve into the multifaceted journey of Caruso, and his significant links to Monaco.
Enrico Caruso in the role of Canio in Leoncavallo’s ‘I Pagliacci,’ 1910. Oil over a photograph.
The Monte-Carlo Opera
MONACO’S OPERATIC TRIUMPH: LA BOHÈME AND BEYOND
In 1900, the visionary director of the Monte-Carlo Opera, Raoul Gunsbourg, sought to elevate Monaco’s cultural standing by introducing Giacomo Puccini’s La Bohème. To complement the renowned soprano Nelly Melba, Gunsbourg set his sights on the relatively unknown 27-year-old Enrico Caruso. The debut on February 1, 1902, marked a sensational opening of the opera season, establishing Caruso’s warm and impactful voice in the hearts of the Monegasque audience.
Caruso’s connection with Monaco extended beyond this triumph. He returned in 1903 to perform La Tosca and graced the Principality in 1904 with four stellar works: Rigoletto, Elixir of Love, La Bohème, and Aida. Monaco revelled in Caruso’s glory, and his recordings, initiated in a Milan hotel in 1902, launched his international career.
After lukewarm reviews in his hometown Naples, Caruso said: “I will never again come to Naples to sing; it will only be to eat a plate of spaghetti”.
MONACO’S NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATION: CARUSO’S STORIED COLLABORATION
Caruso’s rich collaboration with Monaco extended to its National Day celebration. From his debut in 1902 until 1904, Caruso embodied major roles with the Monte-Carlo Opera before venturing into the American star system. In 1915, facing World War I challenges, Caruso waived extravagant fees to honour his promise to Raoul Gunsbourg, reviving Monaco’s lyric season.
In 2023, to commemorate Caruso’s 150th anniversary, esteemed artists like Sir An -
tonio Pappano, Jonas Kaufmann, and Davide Livermore united in Monaco on National Day for a memorable evening, acknowledging the tenor’s pivotal role in opera history.
RAOUL GUNSBOURG: THE STALWART DIRECTOR WHO ATTRACTED CARUSO
Raoul Gunsbourg, the legendary director, shaped the Monte-Carlo Opera for an unprecedented 60 years.
Gunsbourg’s journey from a heroic act during the Russo-Turkish War to his enduring legacy as the director mirrors the resilience and dedication that marked Caruso’s career. Gunsbourg’s ability to attract luminaries like Caruso, Massenet, Saint-Saëns, Fauré, Ravel, and Puccini speaks to his profound impact on Monaco’s cultural landscape.
The exhibition at the Grimaldi Forum stood testament to Gunsbourg’s lasting influence, capturing the essence of a director known as “Divan the Terrible” and who was able to tighten the embrace between Caruso and Monaco.
Camille Blanc, owner of the Monte-Carlo casino, son of its founder François Blanc (on the left) in MonteCarlo walking with Raoul Gunsbourg, director of the Monte-Carlo Opera in 1913
AND TRIBULATIONS
Caruso had a most remarkable recording career, from the first commercially released recordings in 1902 to his association with the Victor Talking Machine Company. His success as a recording artist, extensive performances, and enduring collaborations with renowned venues like Monte Carlo Opera, La Scala and the Metropolitan Opera define Caruso’s musical odyssey.
Enrico Caruso in Verdi’s ‘Rigoletto’ at the Metropolitan Theatre. Photo by A. Dupont, New York, USA, 1903
The Monte-Carlo Opera
As Rodolfo in Puccini’s opera ‘La Bohème’ in 1912 CARUSO’S MUSICAL ODYSSEY: TRIUMPHS
Caruso’s personal life, marked by triumphs and challenges, is unveiled — from his early struggles in Naples to his love life. Prior to World War I, Caruso had been romantically linked to an Italian soprano, Ada Giachetti, who was a few years his senior. Though she was already married, Giachetti bore Caruso four sons during their liaison, which lasted from 1897 to 1908. Two survived infancy: Rodolfo Caruso and singer/actor Enrico Caruso Jr. Ada’s relationship with Caruso broke down after those 11 years together after which they separated. In 1917, Caruso met and courted a 25-year-old socialite, Dorothy Park Benjamin. She was the daughter of Park Benjamin, a wealthy New York patent lawyer and author. In spite of the disapproval of Dorothy’s father, the couple wed on 20 August 1918. They had a daughter, Gloria Caruso.
Caruso & The San Francisco Earthquake
The famous tenor Caruso was a skilled amateur caricaturist and drew humorous portraits of himself & friends.
Caruso’s dedication to charitable causes during World War I and resilience during the San Francisco earthquake showcase a multifaceted personality beyond his tenor prowess.
CARUSO’S ENDURING LEGACY IN MONACO AND BEYOND
Enrico Caruso’s journey intertwines with Monaco’s cultural history, leaving an indelible mark on the Principality’s operatic legacy. As we emerge from the celebrations of the 150th anniversary of his birth, Caruso’s warm voice continues to resonate, echoing through the halls of the Monte-Carlo Opera and beyond, immortalizing him as one of the greatest tenors in the annals of music history.
Caruso had visited San Francisco in April 1906 for a series of performances. Following an appearance as Don José in Carmen at the city’s Grand Opera House, a strong jolt awakened Caruso at 5:13 on the morning of the 18th in his suite at the Palace Hotel. He found himself in the middle of the San Francisco earthquake, which led to a series of fires that destroyed most of the city. All the sets, costumes and musical instruments were lost. Holding an autographed photo of President Theodore Roosevelt, Caruso ran from the hotel but was composed enough to walk to the St. Francis Hotel for breakfast. Charlie Olson, the broiler cook, made the tenor bacon and eggs. Apparently, the quake had no effect on Caruso’s appetite, as he cleaned his plate and was reported as tipping Olson $2.50. Caruso made an ultimately successful effort to flee the city, first by boat and then by train. He vowed never to return to San Francisco and kept his word.
Caruso’s Home Town Naples Gave him a Lukewarm Reception
In December 1901, Caruso made his debut at the San Carlo Opera House in Naples in L’Elisir d’Amore to a lukewarm reception; two weeks later he appeared as Des Grieux in Massenet’s Manon which was even more coolly received. The indifference of the audiences and harsh critical reviews in his native city hurt him deeply and he vowed never to sing there again. He later said: “I will never again come to Naples to sing; it will only be to eat a plate of spaghetti”.
Though Eventually Rich Caruso Struggled Financially for Years
Enrico Caruso came from a poor but not destitute background in Naples. To raise cash for his family, he found work as a street singer in Naples and performed at cafes and soirées. Aged 18, he used the fees he had earned by singing at an Italian resort to buy his first pair of new shoes. Money continued to be in short supply for the young Caruso even during his early career in Opera. One of his first publicity photographs, taken on a visit to Sicily in 1896, depicts him wearing a bedspread draped like a toga since his sole dress shirt was away being laundered.
Caruso the Skilled Caricaturist
The famous tenor Caruso was a skilled amateur caricaturist who portrayed himself in operatic roles and drew humorous portraits of friends, as a release from his stressful professional life. He also loved to make mocking sketches of his own amiable, round face. There exists even a silver and enamel vanity box modelled after his self-portrait.
Enrico Caruso with self-caricatures
HELLO MONACO PRESENTS: WORDS OF WISDOM IN MONACO
BUILDING A LIBRARY OF HUMAN WISDOM
Monaco is a unique place in the world. But in the wider public’s mind, the names Monaco and Monte-Carlo remain synonymous with casinos, Formula One, luxury yachts, and offshore tax havens. But there is so much more to Monaco than these clichés. It’s the residents of the Principality who truly make Monaco unique: outstanding sportsmen, businessmen and women, film stars, artists, creative entrepreneurs, scientists, philanthropists, art collectors and more.
We come from different countries with different cultural heritage, religions and traditions. People who move to Monaco have a different personality and outlook on life. And we all manage to peacefully co-exist, literally side-by-side, in 2 square kilometres of territory. It could be argued that Monaco is the perfect prototype for countries of the future, where multi-cultural people live and create together.
Our project, “HelloMonaco: Words of Wisdom in Monaco” (WOW), will introduce you to the residents of the Principality who have achieved much in life. We will also interview eminent guests of the Principality, visiting Monaco on tour, for a concert, or here on holiday. Each person’s experience in life is different, but they all have valuable lessons to share. These interviews will be an invaluable resource, vital to our mission of building a library of human wisdom. We won’t be asking the usual questions — we will be asking questions about life, love, wellbeing, success and more. And many answers could be life changing.
Both of our summer WOW guests have new leadership roles in first class Monaco institutions and have international reputations. Björn Dahlström was appointed director of the New National Museum of Monaco in April 2021, and Stéphane Valéri became president of the Société des Bains de Mer in April 2023. We thought it interesting to highlight changes that are occurring in the functioning of NMNM and SBM during this time, and the way its new leaders are managing to find a balance between tradition and innovation.
WORDS OF WISDOM IN MONACO WITH STÉPHANE VALERI
By Nicole Laffont
If you want to approach the SBM Presidency, the best way is by having a biscuit and a hand out and gentle caress. You will be welcomed by an adorable four-year-old Yorkshire terrier. Patty never leaves her master’s office except perhaps seeing you off to the elevator. Her presence is so discreet, it does not disturb any meeting. Presiding over the prestigious Société des Bains de Mer for a year and a half, Stéphane Valeri is inseparable from his little dog. As to his big Belgian shepherd, he is home on duty watching over the youngest. Nine month old Diana is a little sister to his two grown-up children, aged 29 and 32… “Patty is on an open-ended contract, assigned to public relations, — jokes Stéphane Valeri, — and she is more grateful than certain employees…”
Father of three, his love of animals goes hand in hand with an empathy for humans. The Principality’s leading employer with some 5,000 staff in high season, Stéphane Valéri is happy to be able to provide a comfortable income to the SBM employees. He is ever conscious of their wellbeing, all the more so that they represent an established “savoir-être” brand, symbolizing a certain art of living. It is all about elegance on the outside, but most of all, on the inside.
Hello Monaco: Has this appointment come as a surprise to you? Have you ever thought of becoming the SBM President?
Stéphane Valeri: No, absolutely not. It is true that I have been in contact with SBM from very early on. My father was the Casinos’ deputy director. As for me, I discovered SBM as part of my European casino marketing internship. When I finished my studies in 1986, my first job was that of an executive assistant.… But since then, many years have gone by. In 1988, I created my own company “Promocom” organizing events and trade fairs for the general public. The Monaco International Fair, the International Antiques Fair, children, seniors, gastronomy fairs among others… I was managing a company with some hundred staff. I have never thought I would return to SBM and certainly not as its president!
: Prior to this appointment to lead SBM you have held important positions with the Principality’s government…
SV: At age 25, the minimum age for Monaco, I was elected to Parliament. The venture with “Promocom” took me five years. Following this, I stood for election in 2003.
I was then elected President of the Monaco Parliament, or the National Council. Re-elected five years later, in 2010 I was invited by Prince Albert II to join the Government as State Councilor for Social Affairs and Health.
: Which important cases did you handle?
SV: I was in charge of pension reform, introducing teleworking and the Hospital Center’s medical program that the Prince
Stéphane Valeri and Virginie Cotta, Secretary General of the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer Group, visiting Domaine d’Agerbol in September, 2023
Stéphane Valeri with members of the Executive Committee. From left to right: Vincent Bouvet, Sophie Vincent, Pascal Camia, Albert Manzone, Stéphane Valeri, Virginie Cotta, Julien Munoz, Rudy Tarditi, Julien Chenaf
had entrusted me with. Seven years after, I decided to run for elections again. I then chaired the National Council from 2018 to 2023. At the end of my mandate, the SBM Board of Directors, of which the state is the majority shareholder, invited me to become Deputy President. I thus moved from the legislative to the executive branch…
: A significant leap it’s been….
SV: It’s not the same job! And SBM has changed a lot. I had the management team renewed. Out of ten executives, there are now six Monegasques including myself. I inherited a thriving business and I will therefore do everything possible to preserve a social model that is a
private company unique to Europe. Salaries are indexed every three months to beat inflation. Employees benefit from a 13th month of pay, an incentive bonus, free concerts in the Sporting Salle des Étoiles and holidays largely financed by the social fund etc.
SBM has largely contributed to creating the Monte-Carlo legend. It has become a world-famous brand. We are therefore proud to be part of it, but also responsible for keeping the legend alive. Careers are long at SBM. Employees are attached to the company, bringing their loved ones along.
But apart from this family spirit, SBM also stands for excellence. We are managing
the most beautiful palaces and starred restaurants on the Riviera…
: It looks like you have created new positions, particularly within Management…
SV: I have a lot of respect for my predecessor who left me the company in a very sound state, but I do have a road map of my own. I changed a number of positions on the executive committee. We now have eight new directors, including myself. I make sure I surround myself with brilliant people, very competent in their field. And I am proud to say that six directors are of Monegasque nationality, including the General Director who dedicated most of his career to the United States and whom I eventually brought back here.
: What are your current priorities for SBM development?
SV: I have two priorities. First of all, real estate development. A special position is created just for that. SBM is in fact the largest property owner after the State. We must therefore boost our real estate development, working on several projects. The Casino terraces feature ultramodern and medicinal thermal baths, and luxury shops. We have planned for rebuilding the Méridien hotel on Princesse Grace avenue, of which we are co-
The cellars of the Hôtel de Paris contain real treasures, extremely rare bottles which will soon take their place in a small museum currently being developed.
landow ners with the State. We would also like to open hotel residences in this exceptional location.
My second priority is going international. With my international development department, we have already purchased a hotel in Courchevel, in the heart of the Al -
pine garden, at an altitude of 1,850 meters... It needs a total renovation to become one of the most beautiful palaces in Europe with some fifty very large rooms and suites. We will open in December 2026.
: You are known to be very committed to sustainable development and
about to design an energy-efficient spa…
SV: We intend, indeed, to make the entire building highly energy efficient, including the SPA. I really like swimming pools overflowing onto the forest and snow. But we will have to wait on that unless we find an energy-efficient system.
We have signed a joint venture with the “D.ream International” group, one of the world leaders in luxury festive restaurants. A Monegasque restaurant in Dubai is about to open, featuring Riviera food specialties. Monaco, however, remains our priority. We designed a new Café de Paris, created the Monaco One, completed the total restructuring of the Casino Square, opened a new restaurant at the Maona etc... A Japanese restaurant “L’Abysse” has also just been opened at the Hermitage hotel specializing in seafood. We are going to give soul to “Moods” with live music groups and comedy nights …a new style music bar that will be very popular with locals. The “New Moods” is to open in autumn.
: Talking about heritage, how can you modernize the Principality whilst preserving the old?
SV: We are heirs to 160 years of history. It must be said that the SBM has been chaired by a woman since 1877. When her husband died, Marie Blanc took over the
The Hôtel de Paris, the emblematic palace of the Société des Bains de Mer
The legendary Café de Paris offers a cosy atmosphere and panoramic terraces.
MCSBM
WORDS
reins. François Blanc had somehow established Las Vegas on the French Riviera 70 years earlier! His wife, for her part, founded the Opera and the Hôtel de Paris cellars which are celebrating their 150th anniversary this year. “We are Monaco” is one of our slogans. We are incredibly lucky to have this heritage and it must be preserved!
I am very confident about SBM’s future, and am very optimistic by nature.
We have initiated a restoration program for the Hôtel de Paris cellars. A small museum will be exhibiting our most famous bottles, including two from 1902 labelled by Napoleon I in honour of his son’s birth, the King of Rome. All in all we have 350 thousand bottles, a few hundred of which are priceless and part of the collection.
: Are you optimistic about SBM’s future but also more globally, that of the Principality and the planet?
SV: I am very confident about SBM’s future, and am very optimistic by nature. But
I can’t really act on the planet that much. I do believe, however, that human beings, once up against the wall, know how to show imagination and creativity. Human technology will help us resolve the problems created by technology and industrial development. And we do have goals in this direction. Some of our buildings are partly supplied by electricity pumping water from the port of Monaco. We are developing more solar panels, growing certain organic vegetables, but we need to accelerate local production.
: Do you have a dream?
SV: Carry on serving the Monegasque state well. I want to make this presidency a success for the future, particularly on an international scale. My dream is for the 21st century to live up to the 19th. May we always be an innovative, creative group, a leader in our field. In a way, keeping the legend alive… “Since1863”.
From left to right : Marta Seco, co-founder of Amazónico, Albert Manzone, Managing Director of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, Jean-François Casanova, CEO of the D.ream International group, Sandro Silva, co-founder of Amazónico, H.E.M. Minister of State Pierre Dartout, HSH Princess Charlène, HSH Prince Albert II, HSH Princess Stéphanie, Stéphane Valeri, Deputy Chairman of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, Ferit F. Sahenk, President and CEO of the Doğuş group, and Jérémy Vacher, Director of Amazónico Monte-Carlo
Stéphane Valeri is never separate from Patty, his adorable Yorkie
Photo: Nicole Laffont
Crédit : Eric Mathon / Palais Princier
WORDS OF WISDOM IN MONACO WITH BJÖRN DAHLSTRÖM
By Nicole Laffont
HelloMonaco: Multidisciplinarity is your signature trait. How do you relate to the NMNM history?
Björn Dahlström: I actually follow in the footsteps of Marie-Claude Beaud whilst
Established in the Principality since 2001, Björn Dahlström succeeded Marie-Claude Beaud at the head of the New National Museum of Monaco (NMNM). Whilst pursuing her strategy, he is also introducing a personal touch to each exhibition: a great open-mindedness, a keen intellectual curiosity and a taste for establishing a dialogue between different arts. A transversal way of seeing things. Eclecticism in the best sense of the word. This somehow sums up the man presenting two major events of this summer: “Pasolini in chiaroscuro” at the Villa Sauber (until September 29) and “Miquel Barceló, oceanographer” at the Villa Paloma (until October 13).
These choices reflect his desire to mix visual arts and the world of ideas, cinema and literature, sculpture and painting, fashion and design. He is ever conscious of the bridges linking the ancient world to that of today, guiding artists throughout centuries.
respecting a certain transversality. She was the one who trained me. I worked in a number of different museums: ethnographic, monographic, fashion, literature... My first experience was at the Museum of Modern Art in Luxembourg. Marie-Claude was indeed a true pioneer in terms of bringing together different arts. I just want to maintain this transversal approach.
Since this is the only contemporary art museum in Monaco, I believe we must remain
Photo: Direction de la communication / Stéphane Danna
Björn Dahlström following in the footsteps of Marie-Claude Beaud as director of the NMNM
extremely open. You have to capture the public interest, surprise, astonish. This is the brand image of the museum, with myself pursuing its history. It is for this reason that I feel so comfortable here. I find thoughtprovoking exhibitions, like “Pasolini in chiaroscuro”, particularly interesting ...
: It’s still a somewhat rebellious choice...
BD: Indeed, since we are evoking a somewhat sulphurous personality. But Pasolini was also a great intellectual, a rich character, full of contradictions. Poet, writer, filmmaker, he even painted and drew pictures... This exhibition has different perception levels that would relate to everyone. Those new to Pasolini may learn something from it and so can his great connoisseurs. This is what we must aim for: attracting different audiences.
: Among the great personalities who influenced your life is Bob Wilson... What is his heritage?
BD: It was back when I working with Bob Wilson in his US Foundation that I met Marie-Claude Beaud. Alongside with her and Pierre Bergé who I also met through Bob Wilson, he is a role model to me...
: When we think of Pierre Bergé, it evokes Yves Saint-Laurent. Was he the one to introduce you to the world of fashion?
BD: We live with fashion. Yves Saint-Laurent remains very contemporary. I started working in this museum at the moment when fashion exhibitions had never been that important. Fashion is synonymous with today’s world, and that’s what interests me most. We all have a relationship
with clothes. Yves Saint-Laurent drew from men’s wardrobe to create fashion, emblematic for women. The 20th century marked freeing from dress codes, with each form delivering its message.
: Is there a major exhibition underway along these lines?
BD: Yes, we have a great fashion personality in mind. We are working on it...
: May we know who it is?
BD: Gabrielle Chanel. The exhibition at the Villa Paloma will be establishing a dialogue between the works of contemporary artists and Chanel models.
: And how does Barcelò fit into this? Isn’t it more of an eco-conscious exhibition?
BD: Not really. This exhibition naturally conveys the love of the sea. Barcelò is a great Mediterranean figure, a native of the Balearic Islands. He is a true genius both as an artist and ceramist. Magnifying the sea, he is questioning our ecological conscience. But I do prefer exhibitions that provoke rather than explain. We are also displaying embroideries he made four-handed with his mother. A sort of marine bestiary on tablecloths.
Villa Sauber, one of the last Belle Epoque villas in Monaco, formerly a museum of dolls and automatons, now hosts temporary exhibitions.
Villa Paloma built at the beginning of the 20th century has been the NMNM’s second exhibition venue since 2010
Magliani & Barbara Piovan 2011
: What is your museum’s DNA?
BD: Its DNA is first and foremost about its collections. They are plentiful, and to be confronted through the perspective of guest artists. Putting heritage into perspective with our modernity. Our contemporary art collection is relatively young, just like the museum, but rich nonetheless. On top of it, we also have some 4000 costumes, automatons and dolls... The history of this country must also be taken into account. Transversality is indeed the museum’s hallmark.
Two acquisition committees meet every year. Collectors are involved in what we
: And what about your own DNA?
BD: I have three role models as I mentioned. Marie-Claude Beaud, Bob Wilson and Pierre Bergé. Their approach, their vision of creation inspired me. But I do have DNA of my own... As for my taste for the arts, it all started by visiting the Louvre. Back when I was a child, I was passionate about mythology.
: Rehabilitating Zola’s house and creating the Dreyfus museum, wasn’t it somewhat of a civic commitment?
BD: It was Pierre Bergé’s political standpoint. Same as when he asked me to crea -
Since this is the only contemporary art museum in Monaco, I believe we must remain extremely open. You have to capture the public interest, surprise, astonish.
are doing, lending us art works. This is what the museum’s DNA is all about. The history of the Principality, the transversality, older collections rubbing shoulders with contemporary art.
te a Berber museum in Marrakech. A civilization museum promoting the culture of the North African original population. Opening the Dreyfus Museum was paying homage to the committed Zola. This
museum establishes a dialogue between two great French destinies. Pierre Bergé has always been advocating the unprivileged suburbs.
: Aren’t artists messengers of the unprivileged suburbs?
BD: They are, in one way or another. Some activist artists are particularly committed. But they all are in the sense of offering us an interpretation of the world. Artists are different. Some are difficult to decipher. Thence the importance of the mediation...
: In what way is this mediation ensured at the NMNM?
BD: An audience needs to be prepared. We go to schools, carrying out real educational work and have been doing so for fifteen years. All the children who visit our museums necessarily get something out of it. A form of enlightenment they had previously not been exposed to. I personally have faith in school. It meant a lot to me. I was forged by certain experiences, my first visits to the Louvre among them. Passionate about mythology as I was....
: Speaking of educational work, I believe that young people do have their say in the Museum’s acquisition policy...
A monumental staircase leads to the upper floors, the exhibitions being presented on three levels
Villa Paloma was transformed into a museum by the architect Alexis Blanchi.
Crédit Photo NMNM-Adrien Missika 2010
BD: They do. Through the apprentice collectors program, its eighth edition having taken place in April. This project is amazing! I look forward to this event every time. Nineteen high school students (Première to Terminale), specialized in visual arts, come to Paris to carry out research and selection work. They have an acquisition budget of €20,000 to spend at the Art Paris fair. Having stood their ground in front of a prestigious jury, they persuaded us to acquire a set of works from the “The Song of Birds” installation by Franco-Algerian artist Katia Kameli. This program is going big, preparing the collectors of tomorrow.
: Are you a collector yourself?
BD: No, I own some art but I don’t consider myself a collector. My tastes are varied. I buy on impulse. I am surrounded by objects very close to the contemporary world.
: Is beautiful a derogatory word today? Many contemporary artists refuse this qualifier...
BD: Quite the opposite, beauty exists! I confronted it very young, during my first visits to the Louvre.
: Do you have a dream?
BD: A completely unrealizable one. To be allowed to choose one hundred
art works from all around the world, in any institution, without any constraints or limits. To put on an exhibition, my perfect exhibition. This is not feasible. Some works never leave their museum... I would take great pleasure working on it, but this is not possible..
Katia Kameli. The Song of Birds, The Peacock, 2022 Ceramic sound sculpture 33 × 45 × 16 cm
Courtesy of the artist and Galerie 110 Véronique Rieffel
An apprentice collector from the Lycée Saint François d’Assise Nicolas Barré (FANB) in front of a prestigious jury in April, 2024
Photo: Direction de la communication / Manuel Vitali
Clinging right to the legendary rock, with direct access to the port of Fontvieille, this one-hectare of sunny terraces is a happy home to some 450 animals of 65 species. As of 2023, the animal garden bears the name of its creator, Prince Rainier III. This year it is celebrating its 70th anniversary. A long journey of serving abandoned, injured or endangered animals — a mission this small-sized, but large-scale zoo has taken upon itself.
Prince Rainier with Rhinoceros Margareth
Photo : Jardin Animalier
The spirit of Prince Rainier III is ever present here. A great animal lover, he initiated this mini-zoo constructed on the princely family property. “During a cruise on board his yacht in 1954, the Monegasque sovereign made friends. Travelling along the African coast, he collected some chimpanzees, ostriches and crocodiles. He then commissionned the princely architect, Louis Rué, to create a zoological acclimatization centre on the princely lands”, witnesses Laurent Peyronel, a vigilant and passionate zoo worker of 22 years, managing the animal garden for the last 10 years.
Two years later, on the occasion of his marriage to Princess Grace, the Sovereign received more living gifts. An elephant was courtesy of the king of Vietnam, a pair of Atlas lions were gifted by the then sultan of Morocco, Hassan II, a pair of beavers came from Quebec etc... These were the first residents of the mini-zoo that promptly undertook the mission of giving shelter to animals in need.
“At the time, many were coming back with animals: sand foxes (fennecs) or small chimpanzees… everybody was welcome.” Laurent Peyronel is explaining how things have changed and mentalities have evolved: “In the past we used to think that as long as an animal was fed and mated, that was it… The vision of animal welfare has changed since. There came an understanding that suitable living conditions were to be recre -
Pink flamingos and their young one born in June 2022
Photo Jardin
Animalier
Photo : Jardin Animalier
ated. We are no longer in the perspective of a menagerie, piling up as many animals as can possibly fit...”
POLLUX, THE ZOO’S MASCOT HIPPO, WHO ALMOST LOST HIS LIFE BECAUSE OF A SOFT TOY…
Saving abandoned animals was Prince Rainier’s choice from the very start. Learning of a circus bankruptcy in 1987, the Monegasque prince decided to buy it out, animals included. This is how the hippo Pollux, who is 42 years old now, came to be one of the Monaco zoo’s favourite residents.
The lack of awareness by the visitors, however, has once almost cost the hippopotamus his life. Laurent Peyronel re -
Prince Rainier with Asian elephant Buon-Nam
and an
calls: “One morning, ten years ago, we found him lying on his side unable to move. A specialized veterinarian from Paris told us to give him paraffin and a hundred aspirin tablets. Two days later, Pollux was still swollen and motionless. Very worried, I spent a long time by his side. Leaving him with a heavy heart, I was convinced never to see him again... As soon as the door closed behind, however, I heard a terrible noise as if a huge balloon exploded. Running back to the animal, I saw him lying in a gigantic puddle of excrement and liquid. As I got closer, I spotted a little ball he was struggling to get rid off. It was a soft toy obstructing his ways. A toy that must have fallen down while the hippo was eating...”.
There are, of course, more joyful stories to be told. Like the one of pink flamingos brought by the firefighters in 2014. One was found on the beach in Menton, one in Villeneuve-Loubet, still another one off the coast of Monaco... The young birds were tired and lost in the process of migration. Promptly installed in the lagoon, they shared space with the ducks. “That morning when I heard a loud rustling of wings, it was one of the most beautiful moments of my life. Looking up, I saw three flamingos spreading their wings and heading towards the sea to experience new adventures. A magical moment indeed.”
Princely family with a young Chimpanzee
orangutan
Photo : Jardin animalier
Photo : Elodie Beignet
It must be said that the fourth flamingo chose to stay in Monaco, certainly finding its comfort quite pleasant.
THE GARDEN WILL BE SPONSORING A WHITE-TAILED BALD EAGLE NAMED RAINIER
At the end of the year, the animal garden will be marking its 70th anniversary in style. An exhibition retracing the mini-zoo’s exceptional moments will be part of Prince Rainier III’s centenary celebrations. Among others, a sale of ecoresponsible soft toys made with ocean-recovered recycled plastic, will be organized. All profits will go to three species conservation programs.
And last but not least, a white-tailed eagle bearing the name Rainier will be sponsored by the animal garden. “This large raptor has been extinct in France for the past 150 years. But a zoological park in Savoie, “The Eagles of Léman”, has undertaken a vast program of reintroducing the species. This is a great premiere. Ten breeding pairs were found in zoos and saved from extinction in captivity. Every year, young birds are now born and released into the wild. We track them using beacons. The next eagle to come into the world will be bearing the name of Rainier….” A beautiful story paying tribute to the Prince who was a great animal friend and protector.
Rainier III Animal Garden Place du Canton Tel (+377) 93 50 40 30
Opening hours:
l From 1 March to 31 May: 10h-12h and 14h-18h
l From 1 June to 30 September: 9h-12h and 14h-19h
l From 1 October to 28 February: 10h-12h and 14h-17h Times and opening dates are subject to change.
Prices:
l Adults: 6 €
l Children (6–17 years): 3 €
l Children under 6 years old: free
Prince Rainier with pygmy hippopotamus Henriette
Pollux, the 42-year-old hippopotamus
Laurent Peyronel, director of the Monaco Animal Garden
Photo Jardin Animalier
Photo : Damien
Vidal
Photo : Frédéric Nebinger
FROM JOSEPHINE BAKER TO DIANA KRALL AND LENNY KRAVITZ: CELEBRATING
50 YEARS OF THE SALLE DES ÉTOILES
By Xania Keane
Wearing a top hat and tails, a performer raises his arms dramatically and directs the audience’s attention towards a colossal sign dangling high above him. Decorated in glittering letters that spell out the name of a superstar, the sign suddenly rises towards the rafters and the curtains slowly open.
A woman with a billowing white dress struts onto the stage. Her hips move, her head is crowned with blossoming flowers that tower one metre above her head, defying gravity. Two dozen skilled back-up dancers appear behind the star. The men don white, bellbottomed trousers, the women wear thigh-high boots and soft feathers in their hair. The year is 1974, the star is none other than Josephine Baker and she’s pulling out all the stops tonight as she inaugurates the Salle des Étoiles at the Monte-Carlo Sporting d’Été.
INVITED BY PRINCESS GRACE
Amix of cabaret, theatre, dance and incredible vocals emanate from the stage. After only one number, the audience is already on its feet, trying to soak in every second of an evening that will surely go down in history. Halfway through the show, the star drives an army car onto the stage! She’s dressed in a military uniform and her dancers wave flags as a nod to her brave work as a spy for the French Resistance during the Second world war.
At the invitation of Princess Grace, Josephine Baker moved to Monaco with her family in 1972, two years before she inaugurated the Salle des Étoiles. The venue would go on to regularly host events like the legendary Rose Ball, the Monte-Carlo Sporting Summer Festival and the Red Cross Gala.
JOSEPHINE BAKER, TINA TURNER, LADY GAGA ALL PERFORM “UNDER THE STARS”
Built by Group Pastor (a construction company chaired by Victor Pastor) and owned by the Société des Bains de Mer, the Salle des Étoiles is currently known as “the place to be” for music-lovers across Europe. Within its 1,000 m2, the venue boasts an extraordinary panorama of Monaco and the Mediterranean sea through its huge windows. Thanks to a removable roof, the stars of the stage beautifully mingle with the stars of the sky.
Frank Sinatra, Quincy Jones, Cher, Elton John, Tina Turner, The Beach Boys, Lily Allen, Stevie Wonder, Erykah Bado, Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett have all shone onstage at the Salle des Étoiles since it opened.
Fireworks during the Monaco Red Cross Gala in the Salle des Étoiles at the Monte-Carlo Sporting d’Été in 2018
Photo: Eric Mathon
Monte-Carlo-SBM
THE MONTE-CARLO SUMMER FESTIVAL
Every summer since 1974, the year of the Monte-Carlo Sporting d’Été’s inauguration, the venue has welcomed the most famous artists from all over the world. Since 2021, some of Monte-Carlo’s other iconic locations, like the Place du Casino and the Opéra Garnier, have also hosted festival performances.
This year, the Monte-Carlo Summer Festival will take place from July 6 till August 16 in the Salle des Étoiles. The legendary Stars 80 will be supporting the Fight Aids Monaco association as it celebrates its 20th anniversary, while Jamiroquai will be performing at the Monaco Red Cross Gala on July 19. Audiences will also have a chance to see Trevor Noah, Sam Smith, Diana Krall, Duran Duran and Myriam Farès, to name a few. Lenny Kravitz, a true musical legend, who is turning 60 this year, will close the Summer Festival program with two standing concerts.
The 17th Monte-Carlo Summer Festival is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
FUN FACTS ABOUT THE SPORTING MONTE-CARLO:
l Salle des Étoiles : 973 m2, 950 people for cocktail receptions, 802 people for banquet dinners.
l Salle des Palmiers : 590 m2, 770 people for cocktail receptions, 400 for banquet dinners, a terrace and a sea view.
l Jimmy’z Monte-Carlo : an exceptional nightclub with a terrace and lounge area: 601 m2, 400 people for cocktail receptions.
l Restaurant Coya Monte-Carlo: festive atmosphere and Peruvian cuisine.
Jimmy’z Monte-Carlo night club
Restaurant Coya Monte-Carlo
WELCOME TO SAINT TROPEZ:
An Exclusive Interview with Emilia Jedamska from St Tropez House
By Helena Litvak
Capri, Mykonos, Ibiza, Miami may have allure but Saint Tropez reigns supreme, the undisputed king of the luxury travel circuit. This sexy, sophisticated, and uberchic village is simply the place to be, each year and every year. People in the know flock to Saint Tropez’ white sandy shores in search of exclusive beach clubs, designer everything and some of the most irresistible properties on the planet.
Who is best to speak to in order to get prime local intel? Emilia Jedamska has been running highend villa rental company St Tropez House for 13 years and exclusively shares with Hello Monaco inner secrets about the property market and invaluable tips on what not to miss this Tropezienne summer.
Emilia at villa Vertigo in Pampelonne, Ramatuelle
HelloMonaco: What draws ultra-high-networth clientele to Saint Tropez each year?
Emilia: Saint Tropez succeeds in creating the perfect fusion of local charm and modern allure, blending rich Provencal history with the latest fashion, design styles, and haute cuisine trends that appeal to the most discerning of travellers. Despite
its secluded location, access is easy, with a private jet-friendly airport just 45 minutes away and three international airports (Nice, Toulon and Marseille) within a two-hour drive or a swift 30-minute helicopter ride.
As one of our clients once said: ‘the best thing about Monaco is that it is so close to Saint Tropez.’
When I first visited Saint Tropez 15 years ago, it was right before the summer season, and the village was just waking up from its low-season slumber and gearing up for the busy months ahead. I was blown away by the unique blend of old-school Provencal buildings housing boutiques of world-famous brands. It was mesmerizing to sit in a café, watching locals play boules and drink
Emilia at villa Ama in Pampelonne, Ramatuelle
David Hockney-inspired villa Agape in Les Parcs de Saint Tropez
pastis while the latest models of Lamborghinis and Rolls Royces cruised by. Food trucks stood next to Michelin-starred restaurants. The harmonious coexistence and juxtaposition of these elements, combined with the air filled with creativity and buzzing energy, truly captivated me. Ever since, all I have wanted is to return and be a part of it.
: You have been running St Tropez House for over 13 years. Tell us a bit more
about how the St Tropez luxury villa market is changing.
Emilia: Over the last decade, the villa market in Saint Tropez has experienced a true renaissance. When we first started in 2012, at least half of the villas we dealt with were either old Provencal with no modern amenities or generic new-builds with neutral colour palettes and style. There was a stark contrast between the expectations of
guests visiting Saint Tropez and the property offerings. Year after year, the owners of private villas started to “get it” and accommodate the tastes and needs of highend clientele.
For this summer, the St Tropez House collection features over 100 stunning properties available for rent, with prices ranging from €25,000 to €250,000 per week. A prominent trend in the high-end rental market is the increasing crossover with the art world, involving collaborations with top names in design, architecture, and art.
A perfect example would be Villa Ama, which is a true jewel in the Saint Tropez property scene. It boasts world-class contemporary art pieces by Jeff Koons, Damien Hirst, Takashi Murakami, Ron Arad, and Richard Serra, and I could continue with another 10 top art names. Interestingly, the villa itself is rather minimalist. It has all the luxurious amenities and comforts; however, its deliberately simple architecture and elegant yet neutral interior design allow the true wealth of art to stand out.
Another example of this trend would be villas like Matisse and Ferrera, both designed by India Mahdavi, an IranianFrench architect and designer. Mahdavi,
Villa Matisse by India Mahdavi in Saint Tropez
Villa Ferrera by India Mahdavi in Saint Tropez
called by The New Yorker a “Virtuoso of Colour,” brought a new quality to Saint Tropez. The owner who commissioned India Mahdavi to design the two properties is himself a world-class collector. Stepping into these properties transports you to another dimension of colours, shapes, and patterns. It is vibrant, inspiring, and addictive.
: Can you share any unusual requests from your clients that you have come across?
Emilia: Over the 13 years, we have collected a great deal of stories and anecdotes; unfortunately, not many of them can be shared! A few spectacular requests that come to mind are those related to the “customisation” of villas to high specs. One client, a seasoned art investor himself, loved the property he chose but did not love the art, which was too simple for his tastes. We “home staged” the villa with paintings by local artist Anna Petrika, to the delight of the client.
On another occasion, a client with an impressive fleet of cars requested custombuilt extra carports on the property. It was well ahead of the season, so we transformed the driveway into a construction site at the client’s expense, creating a value-added amenity that pleased the owner greatly!
Once, we had a request to make a villa kosher. When we hosted one of the highest-paid sportsmen in the world, we kept three chefs on rotation 24/7 and a fridge always full of wagyu beef.
: What are your top places and things to do this summer in Saint Tropez?
Emilia: Saint Tropez does not stop, and today we are witnessing a surge of new immersive beach clubs and experiential restaurants popping up for this season. If you go through the repertoire of DJs showing up at Shellona, Casa Amor, and Nikki beach clubs, it is on par with the world-class party scenes in Europe and the USA.
Look out for more fashion brand collaborations, like Jacquemus taking over Indie Beach for the second year in a row and now also taking over La Renaissance Café on the iconic Place des Lices.
Loro Piana teamed up with La Reserve Beach Club, and we are so looking forward to visiting! Louis Vuitton has a growing brand visibility and presence via its shops,
not to forget pop up boutiques, White 1921 Bar, Hotel Cheval Blanc, and new property development right next to the Place des Lices. Mini Mokes are experiencing a full comeback, and that’s probably the best way to cruise the narrow streets of Saint Tropez and the beaches of St Tropez and Ramatuelle.
: Where can we find you this summer?
Emilia: I share my time between Monaco and Saint Tropez. In Monaco, you can always find me at Café de Paris or Mada One, while in Saint Tropez, I will never be far from Sénéquier in the port and Verde Beach Club. By the way, check out the Burning Man-themed Wednesdays at Verde!
https://www.sttropezhouse.com/
Mini Moke at villa Voss in Saint Tropez
Bold and Seductive Jewellery
Monte Carlo
Model: Nour Rizk
Photographer: Sabine Scheckel
Producer: Olga Taran @hello_monaco
Art director: Angela Orlov
Assistant: Katya Taran
A special “Thank You” from HELLO MONACO magazine to SBM Monaco, the Monte Carlo Beach hotel, Hôtel de Paris and Café de Paris Monaco for hosting our photo shoot and for their hospitality.
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Monte Carlo
ORLOV MONTE CARLO EXCLUSIVE PLACEMENT AT THE NEW ARIJE BOUTIQUE
Centrally located next to the Casino and Amazónico, this highly anticipated milestone invites enthusiasts and connoisseurs to experience the allure of ORLOV Monte Carlo jewels in the heart of Monaco’s glamorous cityscape. The ARIJE boutique, known for its exceptional curation of luxury items, now houses the exquisite ORLOV Monte Carlo collection, promising a unique and enchanting shopping experience.
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ARIJE
Allée François Blanc, Pl. du Casino, 98000, Monaco
A PLACE UNDER THE SUN: The Best Beach Clubs On The French Riviera
The southern coast of France is much more than its incredible Mediterranean nature and azure sea. From Menton to Saint-Tropez, the coastline is home to the world’s most famous beach clubs. Vibrant parties by famous DJs, Michelin-starred restaurants with legendary chefs and a glamorous atmosphere — the French Riviera has it all for a perfect holiday. Prior to the summer season, Hello Monaco will be introducing you to the most high-profile openings and novelties offered by the popular beach clubs.
One of the main 2024 summer premieres is the legendary Nammos franchise in Cannes. Nammos has been loved all around the world for over 20 years for its signature sophisticated Greek style, trendy beach hangouts and collaborations with legendary brands, such as Dior.
The concept equally popular in Dubai and Mykonos has chosen the Cape Palm Beach as its venue, offering the glamorous French Riviera style of the 1960s. This spacious area in Cannes includes a restaurant, a beach-front and a swimming pool equipped with a sunbathing area and a bar.
Bright turquoise umbrellas and sun loungers contrast beautifully with the sandy decor and natural materials. The menu features fresh seafood, signature burrata
with four types of tomatoes, asparagus and avocado and an eggplant mille-feuille with creamy feta cheese.
Nammos Beach Cannes will be treating us to live sets by resident DJs, with a weekend brunch followed by a party in the sand.
Nammos Cannes
Palm Beach, 06400 Cannes, France
Booking: +33(0)4 85 910 210, +33(0)6 4061 2323
Credit: Nammos Cannes
La Rose des Vents
This summer, residents and guests of the Principality will have still another elegant venue for a relaxing holiday on Larvotto Beach. When Italian businessman Flavio Briatore gets down to business, it is destined for success.
An exclusive beach club will open on the former Marco restaurant premises. The project of Larvotto where the beach club located is conceived by the famous architect Renzo Piano, author of the Pompidou Modern Art Museum in Paris, and many other iconic buildings around the world.
La Rose des Vents beach counts 36 sun loungers and two exclusive luxury cabanas. For the guest’s convenience, this area is specially equipped with changing cabins.
True Dolce Vita reigns here with its bright red, geometrically designed umbrellas and tables, and and signature decor.
The beach restaurant is open for a friendly lunch or a romantic dinner by the sea all year round. The menu includes timeless Italian classics and fresh Mediterranean seafood.
Abeach on Larvotto is not the only seasonal premiere by the famous restaurateur Flavio Briatore.
Majestas Group has taken over the stunning Italian Riviera shores with the opening of Twiga Baia Beniamin, located just a 10-minute boat ride from the Principality of Monaco.
Featuring the iconic style of the legendary Twiga, it offers Mediterranean cuisine including grilled seafood, aromatic paella, and pasta, all set in a celebratory atmosphere with live music and DJ sets.
Twiga Baia Beniamin is accessible from Monaco via a special sea transfer, car, or helicopter, with a helipad conveniently located nearby.
The new Cala Pulpo beach club is nestled in a secluded natural lagoon of Roquebrune-Cap Martin, five minutes away from the Principality. With no noisy neighbours around, here you will get to enjoy absolute peace and quiet.
Its restaurant and sun lounging area are designed in popular Greek Mykonos or Spanish Ibiza style. A live DJ is setting the atmosphere. Canadian chef Thierry Cornuet, who knows it all about grilling, is in charge of the gastronomic side. His book “The Art of Barbecue” has gained incredible
Twiga Baia Beniamin
Photo: Sabine Pariente
Photo: Sabine Pariente
Photo: Sabine
popularity. Unsurprisingly, the menu is abundant in grilled meat and fish dishes, chicken tortilla, shrimp tacos, lobster sandwich and classic Mediterranean cuisine.A yacht shuttle service and valet parking are available.
Cala Pulpо
Plage du Golfe Bleu, 06190
Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France
Booking: +33(0)4 9714 8172
WHAT’S NEW?
Monte-Carlo Beach
The popular Monte-Carlo Beach is obviously worth a mention. This beach club complex features “Le Deck”, “Elsa”, “Club La Vigie Monte-Carlo” restaurants, a bar, a heated pool, a beauty salon, a beachwear boutique, a fitness room and an area offering private cabanas and water activities.
This season, René Blino will be taking over the leadership of the main beach club in Monaco. Appointed in the winter of 2024, he succeeded Danièle Garcelon, its general manager of 20 years.
Over the past two decades, the MonteCarlo Beach has experienced a popularity boom, primarily thanks to its major reno -
vation of 2009. It is known to be firmly committed to sustainable development and environmental protection, as evidenced by the “Elsa” restaurant, with its chefs showing their mastery with zerowaste cuisine.
In this coming season, some real gastronomic pros, two-Michelin starred Marcel Ravin alongside Pascal Garrigues and Domenico D’Antonio, will be rubbing shoulders in the kitchen. The trio will be focusing on local fish dishes. Every Sunday, the Deck restaurant is inviting you to its signature Dolce Vita brunch, honouring classic Italian cuisine.
Monte-Carlo Beach
400 Sentier des Tennis, 06190
Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France
Booking: +377 9806 5245, +377 9806 5246
Photo : Valentin Bréton
Photo : Valentin Bréton
Photo Valentin
Bréton
Photo: Sabine Pariente
Bagatelle Saint Tropez
Just a couple of months ago, the Bagatelle team was greeting its guests at the top of the Alps in Courchevel. Summer 2024 celebrated on Pampelonne beach in Saint-Tropez has some gastronomic innovations for us in store. Its chef Manon Santini has specially arrived at the start of the season to hand pick producers and check the product quality.
The kitchen only uses seasonal ingredients to prepare its signature dishes. New on the menu: zucchini flowers with ricotta, truffle and aromatic herbs, pizzetta with berries and almond cream, airy bread with mozzarella and black caviar, Italian tigelle crumpets and vegetables.
The incredible sandy beach deserves a special mention. After a lunch at Bagatelle, get ready to dance away on the sand. Don’t miss its vibrant parties under the signature striped umbrellas held every single day!
Bagatelle Saint Tropez
Les Tamaris, Chemin de Matarane, 83350 Ramatuelle, France
Booking: +33(0)4 9479 8325
Photo Kristen Pelou
Photo : Kristen Pelou
Photo : Kristen Pelou
One of our most fashionable beach clubs has successfully opened its Dubai branch this winter. Known for its daily noisy parties, Casa Amor is a real island of Mexican Tulum in the South of France. A mysterious aura reigns here, with a shaman joining the guests in the midst of
parties. Last summer, Italian Dolce & Gabbana has opened its corner here, giving its distinctive aesthetic to the establishment.
Casa Amor is loved by fans of electronic music for its signature sets by resident DJs. Some celebrities are also among its regulars. In the 2024 season DJ’s will include Carlita, Blondish and Bedouin.
Stefano
Pampelonne 83350, Ramatuelle, France Booking: +33(0)4 2247 1040
Frenchman Simon Porte Jacquemus, a favourite with the fashionistas all round the world thanks to his miniature handbags, has produced a real fashion revolution with his colourful collections. With his boutiques and pop-up stores, this popular fashion designer has taken over the most iconic beaches and restaurants. Jacquemus’ signature style — casual, bright and funny — fits perfectly with the Saint-Tropez atmosphere. Last year, he came up with a branded boutique with his capsule collections. This coming season, his fans will get to enjoy a breakfast, lunch and dinner in the new brasserie “La Renaissance” in the very heart of Place des Lices. Treat yourself to a dorado carpaccio with citrus and ha -
zelnuts, asparagus and cream cheese toast and a lemon sorbet for dessert, to get the real feeling of Italian Capri.
After a meal, Jacquemus is inviting you to his signature beach. Having decorated the conceptual Indie Beach with striped umbrellas and sun loungers, he is offering you a dynamic pastime with his designer paddle boards. The brand also operates a small beach corner.
Unsurprisingly, the designer is a regular of his own beach club. Don’t be surprised to run into him in a cafe or a sun lounger next to you.
Jacquemus x Indie Beach
Route de Bonne Terrasse, 83350 Ramatuelle, France
Booking: +33(0)7 5610 5157
Credits: Images by Yoann & Marco
Credits: Images by Yoann & Marco
Credits: Images by Yoann & Marco
Credits: Images by Yoann & Marco
Maybourne La Plage
Boasting breathtaking views of the Principality of Monaco, last year The Maybourne Riviera opened its own private beach. The Maybourne Beach and Hotel are sharing the rocks of Roquebrune-Cap Martin, that are not at all in the way if you want to swim in the sea. The water here is much cleaner than on many other beaches.
Since the sun loungers are set at different levels, at a distance from each other, guests may enjoy a truly relaxing rest. A special pontoon will ensure perfect mooring for tenders.
Clam linguini, a variety of tacos and Riviera artichokes salad are among the favourites on the menu.
Maybourne La Plage
42 avenue Winston Churchill, 06190 Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France
Booking: +33(0)4 9337 5000
THE CASTEL BEACH: THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PANORAMA OF THE BAY OF ANGELS
It’s the place to be. The Castel Beach has been a favourite with Nice artists and aesthetes for some forty years. It’s just a stone’s throw from Old Nice, to the very east of the Promenade des Anglais, at the foot of the castle hill. Easy to spot, this heavenly place offers one of the most beautiful panoramas over the Bay of Angels. It is not, however, the only asset of this beach conceived and masterfully managed by Ali Abdelhafidh. Having learned here to swim at the age of six, he came back as a bay watcher at 17... Starting from scratch, Ali embarked on a colossal journey, bringing together a very large clientele thanks to his kindness and good humour.
At the heart of this incredible success story, Ali knew just what ingredients it takes to make this beach a must. A perfect place to meet and relax, while enjoying impeccable service and refined cuisine.
Adorned with works of art, preciously decorated with copper-leaf carved wood, the restaurant offers a truly unique experience at the water’s edge. Savour a meal
Chef Antonio Di Michele
Sophisticated decor for this refined restaurant on Castel Plage
Photo : Castel Plage
Photo : Castel Plage
in the Art Deco style immersing you into the Roaring Twenties or lie on a deckchair with your feet in the water — everything here invites for well-being and eye rest. A serene atmosphere right under the Prom, overlooking the sea, where you forget the hustle and bustle of the city above.
The Castel has an impressive collection of art donated by its regulars. Ben, Arman, Patrick Moya, Sacha Sosno — they all left a footprint on this beach standing out for its original vibe.
As for the cuisine, it is all about local produce, freshness, Nice specialties and summer-inspired dishes.
“The best in the world” focaccia (as sworn by Ali), comes from a Ventimiglia producer established since 1922. A small octopus is fished twelve metres deep for optimal taste and iodine. Raw and small vegetables complement generous pasta dishes and spring salads. And at sunset, the appetizers come in red and gold.
A seahouse perched over the Mediterranean
T he Castel Plage now boasts a very classy extension. “Les Bains du Castel”, an elegant French Riviera-style seahouse took seven years to build. Clinging to the rocks of
Rauba Capeu, its tables are perched over the sea. Enjoying a totally magical dinner under the stars, you feel on board an ocean liner from another age. The menu features the finest seafood. Fish and sashimi fresh from the Mediterranean, handpicked shellfish and crustaceans. Meats are also among its specialties. Succulent dishes prepared with premium products and highlighted by sauces and flavours of elsewhere.
Whether a romantic tête-à-tête or a friendly meal, this is a perfect place to be. Lulled
by the gentle music of the surf, watching a dream panorama, your taste buds exult and your mind drifts into a sweet reverie. An exceptional place for an unforgettable experience. One of the French Riviera favourites for the summer to come.
The restaurant specializes in seafood and in particular fresh Mediterranean fish.
Tables clinging to the rock overlook the sea. An enchanting setting for Les Bains du Castel
Small dishes within the big ones for informed gourmets
Photo : Castel Plage
Photo Castel Plage
Photo : Castel
SAVOUR THE SUMMER: Hello Monaco TOP Culinary Experiences
Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac restaurant has been thrust into the spotlight after receiving an incredible two new Michelin Stars just nine months after it opened. The achievement is a resounding endorsement for Chef Christophe Cussac and his team, who have been
offering exceptional culinary experiences at the Hotel Métropole since July 2023.
“I am deeply honoured by this recognition from the Michelin Guide, and I would like to emphasize that these stars are the fruit of the hard work and devotion of my entire
team. We have made this journey together, each member bringing their unique contribution, dedication and talent. They shine for every one of us, because we know that we can’t achieve great things alone. This is a collective victory, and I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who has contribut-
TWO MICHELIN STARS FOR MONACO’S NEW RESTAURANT BY CHEF CHRISTOPHE CUSSAC!
Photo
Phenix
Photo : Matthieu Cellard
Photo : Studio Phenix
ed to our success,” said Chef Christophe Cussac.
And no small part of that success is due to Patrick Mesiano, awarded the Passion Dessert prize as recently as 18 March 2024. At the prestigious annual Michelin Guide ceremony, Pastry Chef Patrick Mesiano was honoured with the Passion Dessert award, highlighting his divine creations including his dessert trolley at Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac. With a team of talented pastry chefs at his side, Mesiano is the brains behind a range of irresistible desserts all served up with a touch of refinement in the Ambassadeurs, one of the Métropole’s four restaurants.
The overall accomplishment by Christophe Cussac is the culmination of a daunting challenge: to revive the gastronomic restaurant at the Hotel Métropole Monte-Carlo which had been closed since 2019. The Chef at the helm of the restaurant has a career spanning over 40 years.
Christophe Cussac’s path has been woven with some of the greatest talents of his time, including the Jamin-Robuchon era (1981) and Troisgros in Roanne. The Chef then
managed his family’s Relais & Châteaux the Abbaye Saint-Michel in Tonnerre, Burgundy (two stars), La Réserve de Beaulieu (two stars) before arriving at the Hotel Métropole Monte Carlo (since 2004), alongside Joël Robuchon (still boasting two stars).
Cuisine at the Apex
With Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac, the Chef aims to capture the very essence of gastronomy: the perfection of movement, the serenity of meticulous work and the precise choreography of a full brigade.
Savour the thought of Entrees like Lobster Lasagne with spinach (La Lasagne de
Homard estragon, épinards et spianata) or fish dishes to die for like the immaculately presented Sole with lemon (La Sole et le Citron de Menton). Prefer a divine meat dish? … try the delicious Lamb cutlets (Les Côtelettes d’Agneau de Lait thym et pois chiches acidulés) or the classic beef filet (Le Filet de Bœuf au poivre de Kampot torréfié).
“A culinary journey guided by the simplicity of a man… and of the dish”
Inaugurated in July 2023 and designed by Jacques Garcia, the warm and inviting setting holds promises of unforgettable experiences. Diners can rediscover simple, contemporary and authentic Mediterranean cuisine, magnified by an attachment to the French terroir. A tribute to the restaurant Les Ambassadeurs of the 1920s and a daily commitment now rewarded in the most beautiful way.
As part of their gastronomic symphony, the Hotel Métropole Monte-Carlo is also home to Yoshi, the only Japanese Michelinstarred restaurant on the French Riviera since 2010, bringing the total number of stars for the establishment to three, a reflection of its ambition to light up Monaco’s culinary scene.
Les Ambassadeurs by Christophe Cussac +377 9315 1510
THE AMAZING AMAZÓNICO MONTE-CARLO: WELCOME TO THE RAINFOREST!
Aprofusion of plants, shiny butterflies and sparkling spaces. An astounding Amazonian forest has taken over the roofs of Café de Paris, just opposite the Monte-Carlo Casino. A DJ station in the lounge plunges you into the unique atmosphere and tropical vibes. A little further on, on a spa -
cious terrace, a live orchestra is playing jazz, bossa nova, or Cuban rumba. Just on the other side, outside, treat yourself to a cocktail, cigar, and shisha area. This is a truly tranquil garden corner for either a languorous tête-àtête or sipping a drink with friends. Immerse yourself in yet another atmosphere in the
Sandro Silva and Marta Seco, cofounders of Amazónico
Credit: Olivier Huitel / Crystal Pictures
Photo: James McDonlads
Photo: James McDonlads
Photo: James McDonlads
basement, a nightclub designed for the select few to enjoy a wild party until the crack of dawn. An ultra-select venue, with its elegance and courtesy reminiscent of the most elegant parties in Monaco.
This luxurious and colourful place, introducing a new style to the Principality, truly caters to anyone's taste.
Conceived by a husband and wife, Sandro Silva and Marta Seco, in love with Latin American cuisine, the Amazónico first appeared in Madrid in 2016, eventually exported to London and Dubai. Following the Principality, Miami and Riyadh are the next to host its vibrant nights.
Grilled meats, ceviche, and a sushi bar
Amazónico is an astonishing mix of culinary influences. Inspired by traditional Brazilian dishes and cachaça-based cocktails, Sandro Silva, above all, is a chef creating his original multi-flavoured menus. Embark on this gastronomic journey, from Brazil to Argentina via Peru, immersing you into a truly exotic universe.
Mainly inspired by South American classics, the menu also favours Asian influences. Ember-grilled Buenos Aires meats rub shoulders with the sushi counter. Raw food lovers will enjoy a large selection of ceviche and colourful, original salads bringing a fresh and cheerful touch. Enough to satisfy the most demanding palates.
To please your eyes and taste buds alike, pineapples are gently roasted and caramelised throughout your meal right at your table. The “Piña rostizada” is the restau -
rant’s signature dessert. Voted an absolute favourite, it combines the warm and sweet taste of a pineapple, a crunch of a corn pancake and a refreshing coconut ball.
The beverages are just as unique. Six attentive sommeliers will introduce you to some 600 references. Great French wines and bottles from all around the world, many from Spain and Argentina, will provide subtle and varied food and wine pairings.
T he cocktail menu extends your jungle experience full of mysteries. Enjoy these unique combinations of flavours served in glasses celebrating the jungle fauna. A monkey offering a mischievous drink or a peacock in all its splendour will take you by surprise…
Some 200 hand-picked staff are here to satisfy the guests' every whim under the guidance of Jérémy Vacher, President Chirac's former butler. Thanks to their professionalism, the restaurant easily welcomes up to 1,500 clients per evening. Impressive indeed.
The Amazónico experience is all about immersing yourself in an unknown world of its own. Explore new lands and discover new pleasures. A dizzying décor, versatile music, surprising dishes and cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere. Open since April, this latest flagship of the Société des Bains de Mer is always packed full. If you want to venture into the jungle, don’t forget to book!
Stéphane Valeri, Chairman and CEO of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, H.S.H. Princess Charlène, H.S.H. Prince Albert II and Ferit F. Sahenk, Chairman and CEO of Doğuş Group
Photo: James McDonlads
Credit: Eric Mathon / Prince’s Palace
Photo: James McDonlads
Photo: James McDonlads
FINE DINING
NOBU MONTE-CARLO REOPENS WITH FRESH RENOVATIONS, A NEW HEAD CHEF & DELIGHTS THAT WILL SURPRISE
Nestled in the heart of Monte-Carlo, Nobu Monte-Carlo reopened its doors on May 10th after a highly anticipated renovation. This iconic restaurant, known for its blend of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, is poised to begin a new chapter in its storied history.
The recent renovations at Nobu Monte-Carlo have transformed the restaurant into an even more luxurious and immersive dining destination. The redesign draws inspiration from natural tones and traditional Japanese patterns, capturing the essence of MonteCarlo’s opulence. The interior now features fine materials such as natural oak, rich fabrics, and bespoke prints. Soft lighting and natural wood panels create an inviting atmosphere, while panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea enhance the overall experience.
New Head Chef
One of the most exciting changes is the introduction of the new Head Chef, Olivier Rinaldi. Chef Rinaldi brings with him
a wealth of experience and a passion for culinary innovation. His expertise in blending flavours and techniques from Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s iconic dishes promises to elevate Nobu Monte-Carlo’s already esteemed culinary offerings. With his creative vision, Chef Rinaldi is set to delight even the most discerning diners.
Since its inception, Nobu Monte-Carlo has been celebrated for its exquisite fusion of Japanese culinary traditions and Peruvian influences. Designed by the legendary Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, the restaurant’s menu is known for its bold flavours, artistic presentations, and meticulous attention to detail. Each dish is crafted to provide a sensory journey, making dining at Nobu more than just a meal — it’s an experience.
Nobu Matsuhisa
At its origin Nobu was created within the genius vision of Nobu Matsuhisa. Nobuyuki Matsuhisa began his career in Japan, before moving on to Peru, where he took his inspiration from the culinary culture and ingredients of the region. His first restaurant, which opened in 1987, offered imaginative dishes that saw him chosen as one of America’s 10 Best New Chefs in 1989 by Food & Wine magazine.
Hello Monaco had the pleasure of experiencing the long-awaited reopening of
Nobu at Fairmont Monte-Carlo. The elegant interior received a tasteful retouch, setting the stage for an exceptional dining experience. From the moment you step inside, you’re treated like royalty by the incredibly friendly and attentive Nobu team, ensuring you feel right at home throughout the meal. Under the talented guidance of the new Nobu Fairmont Chef, Olivier Ronaldi, the food exceeds all expectations and shines through in every bite, making each dish a true gastronomic delight.
While there are a few new additions to the menu, it still maintains the classic Nobu flair. The Chilean Sea Bass, expertly prepared by Chef Damien Duviau from Nobu Dubai, was a perfect mix of simplicity and elegance, with that special Japanese touch. And the dessert, featuring a parade of fresh fruits, feels like a taste of summer. For any true food lover, a visit to Nobu at Fairmont Monte-Carlo is an absolute must.
Whether you are a longtime fan or a firsttime visitor, Hello Monaco will attest that new Nobu Monte-Carlo promises to captivate your senses and elevate your culinary expectations.
‘Irasshaimase’
You may be met with the Japanese phrase ‘Irasshaimase’ which means ‘Welcome to my shop/restaurant’ and is one of the many formal Japanese ways of politely welcoming new customers. No response is necessary a polite nod of acknowledgement says it all!
ZIA POP-UP AT ODYSSEY: WHEN ITALIAN TRADITION MEETS CULINARY TEMPTATION
The gourmet pop-ups at the Hotel Métropole Monte-Carlo at Odyssey are renowned for their ability to dazzle and seduce guests. First, there is the magical setting, designed by Karl Lagerfeld, with a fashionable style that makes it one of the most in vogue places in the Principality. Then there are the collaborations with guest chefs, offering a unique and ephemeral dining experience. This year, Chef Christophe Cussac has chosen to give the poolside restaurant a unique touch with ZIA. To embody this vision, the dynamic duo of Manon Santini and Rocco Seminara will take over from June 12th to 31st of August with an original and contemporary pizza menu from Wednesday to Sunday for dinner.
Inspired by their Italian heritage, Manon and Rocco’s mission is to revive the traditional flavours of Italy while using the highest quality ingredients and modern
cooking techniques. Their ambition is to capture the essence of classic Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist, respecting traditions but exploring new ways of presenting and enjoying pizza.
At the heart of their culinary approach is their pizza dough, meticulously crafted to combine lightness and crispness. Made from Italian flours including TOO, integral and carefully selected cereal flours, it is kneaded and left to rest for 48 to 72 hours at a controlled temperature before use. It needs to be brought back to ambient level for around 4 hours before baking. Spreading it with organic durum wheat semolina gives it a crisp, even shape, a testament to the meticulous attention paid to every detail.
Their distinctive flavour creations, crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, range from classics such as Margherita
and Napoletana, to more sophisticated offerings such as pizza with truffle or avocado caviar. The originality of the concept continues right through to the desserts, where Manon Santini, awarded ‘World Champion Pizza Dessert in 2019’, uses all her know-how to create sweet pizzas that are as delicious as they are creative, such as the strawberry-pistachio pizza and the unmissable chocolate and hazelnut praline from Piedmont.
Amere name may evoke an entire universe. Images, colours, scents or even a country. Pronounced with an Italian accent, “Valentino” immediately conjures up chic and glamorous Italy with its typical elegance and ease. Italian art of living comes to mind. Same when we first discover the “Da Valentino” concept. A new addition to the Maya Collection group, this incomparable restaurant is a surprising mix of refinement and conviviality. Looking for a little escape? Come here for lunch or dinner.
“Da Valentino” nestles on the corner of elegant 27, Avenue Princesse Grace with gentle ease. The outdoor vegetation and the small white-clothed tables already evoke the other side of the border. And once through the front door, you really feel privileged. Very refined decoration is based around cream and dark brown tones, giving the entire place a fine allure. The delicately crafted frames adorning multiple wall panels, are reminiscent of meticulous woodwork specific to the Maya Collection. Tables and seats are organized in an alcove. This rounded set up gives you a feeling of privacy, whilst also enjoying all the restaurant’s atmosphere. Huge crystal chandeliers punctuate the passage from one aisle to another, all the way to the beautiful dining room at the back.
The interior is cosy, with little touches of passionate red punctuating the tables with its glasses, candles and other elegant tableware. This “rosso passione” is reminiscent of Italian cinema’s golden era. Beautifully framed, its black and white images are all over the walls.
A joyful moment to spend in a distinguished atmosphere. An immense brown and gold stone bar is inviting you to indulge in pleasure. The elegant and comfortable high seats are perfect
for enjoying homemade starters. It must be said that “l’Aperitivo” at “Da Valentino” is a reference. In addition to classics, the menu offers signature cocktails with their names evoking a certain warmth. “Dolce Vita”, “Tentazione” or “Passione” will set the tone for an unforgettable start. The menu’s originality is also due to its exceptional wines served before dinner at producer prices. These delicious beverages, invariably accompanied by tasty appetizers, will awaken your appetite, inviting you to proceed with the main course.
Ma sì! The “Da Valentino” experience is all about tasting the masterfully reinterpreted dishes. Designed with the indulgence and warmth of the Italian south, the menu is taking us on a sunny journey across this country, generously sharing its treasury of flavours. Explore Italian Antipasti, Primi piatti, Pesci, Carni, Contorni and sweet dolci. A tasty menu imagined with great sincerity. Products sold on market benches, fresh and colourful are reinterpreted here with a real touch of modernity. Light cooking, herbs, olive oil and a gourmet presentation full of emotion. Not to mention the desserts, with their aesthetic being a delight to the eye. A return to the origins, the authenticity of the “mamma” dishes, rich in colour and taste, but in a completely new style. A clever mix of generosity and delicacy. Particular care is given to the presentation here: each plate is, like a postcard, an invitation to travel.
Your journey is accompanied by an extremely diligent team, looking after you whether you come for a drink, menu tasting or leisurely pastime. The waiters and waitresses, all Italian, have this wonderful singing accent. Dressed in transalpine chic, they stylishly display pocket watches, twopiece striped suits at lunch and three-piece suits at a dinner service, with valets wearing hats and frock coats. Immerse yourself
in good humour and the joy of living. Gifted with charm and elegance, they know how to make their guests particularly pampered for the time of this very special meal. The sounds are melodious, the dishes appetizing and the atmosphere lively.
Could it be the beautiful black lacquered grand piano at the entrance, or the melodious voice of the Italian singer that make you leave all your worries behind? Without a doubt. Music is indeed one of the local highlights. Instrumental performances will eventually be followed by the resident DJ known in the Principality for his vibrant Italian tempos. All the standard repertoire, from Nino Rota to Ennio Morricone via Dalida, is revisited by the maestro. Softer during the daytime, it gradually becomes more upbeat. More than simply tapping your fingers or moving your feet to the rhythm, you will be rocking and singsonging to the vibes not so distant from ours.
Distinguished by authentic cuisine and refined decoration, this new Monegasque destination invites the sporting of an elegant suit and most feminine attire. After all, you are going to lunch or dinner not to any other restaurant... but “Da Valentino”!
Da Valentino
Le Formentor
27, Avenue Princesse Grace, 98000, Monaco
+377 9999 4949
www.davalentino.mc
LOULOU: “LE PIRATE” LEGEND IS ALIVE IN ROQUEBRUNE-CAP-MARTIN
It was the time of wild parties, new ideas, challenging norms, challenging conventions. The celebration had become a religion, and one of its temples was hidden in a heavenly corner of Cap Martin. “Le Pirate” of the 1960s was a favourite with «la crème de la crème» of the cinema, show biz and politics… Johnny Hallyday, Sheila, Prince Charles and even the former French Republic President, Jacques Chirac, were among some of its regulars. During the Cannes Film Festival, there was a rush. The stars jostled under the sun with the sea being their only horizon.
“Le Pirate”, this legendary and discreet destination, clinging to the rocks and overlooking the Mediterranean, was “the place to be”. James Bond and Brigitte Bardot, Frank Sinatra and Gina Lollobrigida, not to forget princesses vacationing on the Riviera. Eve -
ryone gave credit to its relaxed atmosphere inspired by Charles Albert Viale, alias “Le Pirate”. A funny guy who showed off a bare chest, a ponytail and a ring in his ear…
After the owner passed away, the place remained closed for years. Thankfully, it reopened its doors last summer and the legend lives on. The “Loulou” group, known for its restaurant near the Palais Royal in Paris, has done wonders investing in this idyllic venue, once a simple fishermen’s hut. Comfort, gastronomy and a breathtaking view make it truly unique.
A true taste of simplicity in luxury
The restaurant’s DNA has not changed, however. The good-natured vibe is omni -
present on top of its exceptional menu and impeccable service. Come here to enjoy this iodized cocktail (the sea spray being very close) of luxury and simplicity. And the cuisine is just as excellent.
Small Niçois stuffed dishes, roasted, charcoal-cooked or salt-crusted catch of the day, Provence-flavoured vegetables, pasta dishes inspired by nearby Italy, grilled meats, local rosé wines and… live music. Everything you need for a festive lunch among oleanders and bougainvilleas or for a romantic dinner under the stars. Chances are high you may run into a celebrity, hiding from prying eyes.
History thus resumes its course and “dolce vita” is alive in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, just a stone’s throw from the Principality of Monaco.
Federico Uribe, founder and creative director of 209 Mare, has been populating all the “it” places globally with his iconic and timeless designs for nearly a decade. From Monaco to Montauk, Miami to the Middle East, and the Mediterranean, celebrities, magnates, and even royals are seen wearing his signature terry towel Beach Blazers. Today, we sat down with Federico, an avid art and design enthusiast, to discuss his personal interests, design vision, values, and the future of his brand, 209 Mare.
HelloMonaco: Federico, tell us about your background and love for design. You went to business school and have lived in various cultures. How did that shape your passion for design?
Federico Uribe: My passion for design and aesthetics comes from growing up in a household where art, architecture, and fashion were always a part of our lives. My father built a stunning art collection over the years, mainly of contemporary Latin American artists, but it wasn’t just the art itself — it was the way he arranged and curated it. The way he “dressed” the house with vintage furniture, modern architecture, and mid-century contemporary artists was truly a gift. Later, when I saw an
opportunity to dedicate my life to a creative industry like fashion, I took it. Business school gave me the tools to better understand the business side of things. Skills you can always learn, but passion, which you either have or you don’t, is the key to any journey. Having lived across various continents allowed me to appreciate different cultures and understand beauty from different perspectives.
: Why did you decide to go into fashion if you studied business?
Federico: The idea behind Gottfried Keller’s book “Clothes Make People” really resonated with me. Clothes can express our character and feelings. If life is a cassette playing a tape, then fashion is the film that adds colour and context. I guess it’s the love for creative work which led me to dive headfirst into this world.
: What is it about the terry towel that became such a key part of your brand?
Federico: The idea came to me during lunch in Chile. I saw people coming out of the sea and sitting at a beautiful table, but they were wearing wet t-shirts or sloppy hoodies. I saw someone come out in a hotel bathrobe and I thought, why
The Uribe residence where Federico grew up
not make a tailored blazer out of towel fabric? Terry towels get better with time, just like leather. It becomes softer and ages beautifully if correctly treated. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can wear our blazers with jeans, swim shorts, or even for formal occasions. It’s perfect for travel since it serves multiple purposes, reducing the need for packing many items. The texture of the fabric allows it to take in the light in ways other fabrics don’t; it’s similar in this way to velvet I guess, which gives the fabric a beautiful natural movement.
: Who is your favourite designer and why?
F ederico: I admire Tom Ford, his effortless elegance is something I look up to. He made YSL and Gucci what they are today before launching his own brand. Then he also wrote and directed Academy Award winning films such as “Nocturnal Animals” and “A Single Man”. He is just a brilliant creative mind. Additionally, he studied architecture which gives him a unique perspective on the use of spaces in his campaigns. I also admire Frank Lloyd Wright and Pierre Paulin for their playful arrangement of living spaces. Dressing a house is like dressing yourself.
: Do you have a mantra or motto you live by?
Federico: If you think good taste is expensive, try having bad taste.
: What makes a 209 Mare blazer so special?
Federico: The attention to detail and the playful attitude we bring to each product. Every button, label, and dust bag is designed by me to ensure the message is consistent. We use a lot of humour in our products which humanizes the brand in a very authentic way.
: How do you create a collection?
Federico: Curation is key. I look for themes, shapes, colours, and inspirations
Federico during New York Fashion Week 2023
that work well together. Then we sketch, make mood boards and play with fabrics to create a narrative.
: Are you involved in any other design projects?
Federico: I’m currently redesigning a few houses, consulting on achieving coherent and tasteful spaces through curated furniture, art, and specific design needs. I’m also launching a new, sports-related brand this year with a distinctive aesthetic.
: Can you tell us more about the new brand?
Federico: All I can say is that it will be sports-related with a very clear and identifiable aesthetic.
: Favourite colour?
Federico: I don’t have a single favourite. Everything is beautiful in its correct place. If I had to choose one, I’d probably say green.
: What does the future hold for 209 Mare?
Federico: The future of 209 Mare is about creating timeless and unique pieces through capsule collections. We will maintain our solid base products, like our signature blazers, and collaborate with different artists to create limited editions. The brand has been growing steadily, and while the first five years were challenging, patience and making the right decisions have started to pay off. We’re focused on continuous growth and innovation.
: Why did you choose to base 209 Mare in Monaco? What do you like most about it here?
Federico: Initially, it was because my mother was living here, so it was a good place to start. Of course, Monaco offers certain benefits and an interesting demographic for luxury products. It’s a target-rich environment. Also, many of our suppliers are in Milan and Genoa, so everything is quite close. But the real connection to Monaco is deeper. The brand is inspired by the golden era of the French Riviera in the 70s, when icons like Brigitte Bardot and Steve McQueen were here. They had this effortless elegance. Back then, fashion wasn’t forced — it was natural. They could make smoking a cigarette
on the back of a Vespa look cool and elegant, something you don’t see today. This era was driven by amazing design and culture, with influential figures like Warhol, Lichtenstein, and Rothko shaping the scene. That effortless elegance and
enjoyment of life without a care is what I wanted to capture with 209 Mare. That’s the true connection to Monaco for me
Discover more at www.209Mare.com
LUXURY, CALM AND AUTHENTICITY AT DOMAINE DU FORTIN
By Nicole Laffont
A yellow house surrounded by gentle hills, below Ménerbes. This village in the heart of the Lubéron was made famous by artists enjoying the tranquility of authentic Provence and the charm of old stones. Among others, it was home to the tumultuous loves of Picasso and his muse Dora Maar. Rebuilt in the 16th century, in the 1950s the Castle of Castellet was the last refuge of the painter Nicolas de Staël before his tragic end in Antibes. The serenity of this place also seduced the American artist Jane Eakin. Her house has become a museum.
Photo:
Agneta Lansing
It is at the foot of this perched village, launched towards the sky and classed among the most beautiful in France, that a lover of beauty, antique dealer and talented decorator, Philippe Andrieux, chose to embark on a colossal project. A refined esthete, César Sanchez, also made his precious contribution. Fallen under the spell of an old farmhouse, built back in times of the religious wars (1573) and enjoying a superb view of Ménerbes, they undertook a pharaonic renovation. It took four years of masterfully supervised work, following all rules of art, with the help of the most talented local craftsmen. This large-scale project culminated in the construction of four luxurious suites and an adjoining private villa “Le petit Fortin”. A contemporary atmosphere
resulted with spacious interiors, a happy marriage of modern paintings and antique furniture, a private terrace and a garden to enjoy.
This is how this unique guest house was born, populated with multiple art objects, period furniture, paintings and engravings... Everything we need to immerse ourselves in a rich 18th century residence in Provence. Its interior truly invites for a rest, daydreaming and relaxation. Cozy vibe, ultramodern comfort, refined decor, without being ostentatious.
And all the windows open onto an exceptional panorama. Framed by the discreet peaks of the Lubéron, the park is home to century-old olive groves, cherry, almond, fig and wild plum trees... A large heated swimming pool and terraces invite you to top up your batteries in peace, quiet and serenity…among lavender, cypress, myrtle and rosemary, breathing in all the colours and scents of an eternal Provence.
MONACO CELEBRATES MARCEL PAGNOL 50 YEARS AFTER HIS DEATH
By Xania Keane
A black and white projection tells a much-loved tale set in a beautiful town in the South of France. Villagers celebrate the day a baker decides to move to their town. Freshly baked bread is all that was missing in their idyllic lives. But celebrations are cut short when, on a warm summer evening, the baker’s much younger wife runs off with a handsome shepherd. The baker is heartbroken and can no longer bake. So the villagers assemble to bring the wife back to her husband so he can bake some more delicious bread for them.
The film, ‘La Femme du boulanger’ (‘The Baker’s Wife’) was directed by Marcel Pagnol in 1938 and was screened on 16 April 2024 at Monaco’s Théâtre des Variétés. The screening was part of a special tribute evening celebrating the 50th anniversary of the director’s death.
FRIEND OF PRINCE RAINIER III
Marcel Pagnol was a resident of the Principality from 1943 until his daughter Estelle passed away at the
age of two, in 1954. A friend of Prince Pierre (1895–1964) and his son Prince Rainier III (1923–2005), Marcel Pagnol’s art was deeply inspired by time spent in the Principality.
In 1926, he created the play ‘Jazz’ which was performed for the first time at the Monte-Carlo Casino Theatre on 6 De -
cember 1926.The premiere of his film ‘Topaze’, in 1951 was also in Monaco. An honorary consul of Portugal, he participated in several important events in the Principality, being present during the 25th anniversary of the reign of Prince Louis II in 1947, as well as Prince Louis’ funeral. He attended Prince Rainier III’s marriage to Princess Grace. A member
Prince Albert II of Monaco at the public tribute ceremony at the stele located on Marcel Pagnol Square
photo
Crédit
photo
Mika
Alesi / Palais
princier
of the Literary Council since its creation in 1950, he chaired the jury of the first Television Festival in 1961. He worked with amateur comedians at the Monaco Studio, and collaborated with Monegasque publisher, Clément Pastorelly, for the publication of his books.
PRINCE ALBERT II PAYS PUBLIC TRIBUTE TO MARCEL PAGNOL
“Parallel to the events to be organised in France, in Provence in particular, His Serene Highness the Sovereign Prince hoped that a day of homage would be devoted to this eminent man of letters, in order to make his work known to new generations. In agreement with the Pagnol family, this day was planned to take place on 16 April 2024, two days before the anniversary of the death of the writer, on 18 April 1974,” states the Princely Palace.
At 11 a.m. on 16 April, Prince Albert II paid a public tribute to the artist in the presence of school students at the stele located on Marcel Pagnol Square. At 3 p.m., a round table was held at the Théâtre des Variétés. Entitled “Pagnol le Monegasque” the event was organised by the Palais Archives and the Audiovisual Institute. Lecturers introduced the public to archives, audio-visual materials and unpublished
thoughts and ideas about the artist. The round table featured readings and theatrical scenes performed by actors from the Studio de Monaco.
The first part of the round table touched upon the appeal of Monaco and opened with an excerpt from the play Jazz. The second part referred to “La Belle Époque à Monte-Carlo (1949–1954)” and opened with an unpublished performance of an unfinished screenplay that was going to be shot in Monaco called ‘Tombola’ or ‘L’Inconnue de Monaco’ (1949). The third part opened with a scene from the film “Manon des Sources” (1952), which Marcel Pagnol wrote in Monaco.
A restored version of “La Femme du Baker” (1938) was then screened at 8 p.m. Based on a short story by Jean Giono, the screenplay, written by Marcel Pagnol, links the individual and the group together with honest and deep connections. Irony and compassion in precise and descriptive dialogue serve to identify the individual until the group and its hidden solidarity become revealed.
On Friday 19 and Saturday 20 April, two performances of excerpts from Marcel Pagnol’s theatrical repertoire were given by the Studio de Monaco, also at the Théâtre des Variétés. An 80-page illustrated series is part of the special testimonial published on the occasion of this fiftieth anniversary by the Nice-Matin group, including a chapter on Pagnol’s links with the Principality, on 28 February 2024.
THE SON OF A SCHOOLTEACHER
The eldest son of a schoolteacher, writing and dialogue were very important to a young Marcel Pagnol. His play ‘Topaze’, the story of a schoolmaster who was fired for being too honest, opened the doors to his success in 1928. When films were no longer silent, Pagnol developed a keen curiosity for cinema and saw an opportunity to give his plays a wider audience. For more than twenty years, his theatrical work merged with his filmography.
Marcel Pagnol’s plays and stories ‘Marius’ (1931), ‘Fanny’ (1932) and ‘Topaze’ (1932) have been made and remade by various directors throughout the decades. They feature and reflect the place he was born and remained throughout his life. All of his pieces tell stories of people who express their truth beyond the lies that condemn them, beautifully walking the thin line between comedy and tragedy.
“ Pagnol has often been caricatured as a skillful exploiter of southern folklore. However, he is a much more complete and modern filmmaker than has been said. His relative contempt for technique, his great freedom in directing the actors, his loyalty to the actors, his attachment to the land to which he gives an unforgettable presence, his way of letting the image speak for itself when the dialogue runs out, all this makes Pagnol one of the first ‘auteurs’ of French cinema,” states Vincent Vatrican, Director of the Audiovisual Institute of Monaco.
Marcel Pagnol is considered as one of France’s greatest 20th-century writers.
Prince Albert II, Nicolas Pagnol, Marcel Pagnol’s grandson, and other personalities with Monaco school students
Crédit photo : Mika Alesi / Palais princier
FRANÇOISE HARDY, THE MONACO REPRESENTATIVE AT THE 1963 EUROVISION
By Angelina Clibbens
Françoise Hardy, French teenager, will be performing her song L’Amour S’en Va’ at the 1963 Eurovision Song Contest representing Monaco. Photo taken on 22 March 1963 in London.
Having inspired several generations of French people, Françoise Hardy, singer, actress, style icon of the 1960s, passed away in Paris at the age of 80. Condolences on the occasion were expressed by President Emmanuel Macron, Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, Minister of Culture Rachida Dati, film director François Ozon, actress Brigitte Bardot, musicians Carla Bruni, Patrick Bruel, Etienne Daho and Mireille Mathieu. Françoise Hardy passing away was also a sad event for Monaco, having started her brilliant career at the Eurovision under the flag of the Principality.
THE EUROVISION EXPERIENCE
On March 23, 1963, the 8th Eurovision held at the BBC studios in London, brought together competitors from 16 different countries. It was eventually won by a duo from Denmark. 19-year-old Françoise Hardy came fifth, representing Monaco with her own composition “L’Amour S’en Va”. This was one of the best results in the 24 years of the Principality’s Eurovision history.
That same year “L’amour S’en Va” entered two major Belgium charts, eventually making it to the Top-100 Eurovision songs in French. Françoise also recorded it in Italian and German.
Having taken part in the Eurovision from 1959 to 1979, Monaco went back to the Eurovision again from 2004 to 2006 after a 25-year break. For three consecutive years, the Principality tried to revive the competition in a format significantly different from that of the 1960s and 1970s. Monaco’s three participants, however, failed to even make it to the finals. As a result, in 2007, it was finally decided not to send any more performers to the Eurovision. This decision may be reversed in the future, who knows. Maybe one day a new star of Françoise Hardy’s stature will be born and represent the Principality.
THE START OF A MUSICAL CAREER
Françoise Hardy was born on January 17, 1944 in Paris. An introverted teenager from a strict family, music was a salvation for her. At the age of 16, having successfully passed exams, she was rewarded with her very first guitar. The young girl got straight down to playing and composing new songs. Success came
Françoise Hardy was a real icone de style for a lot of young women not only in France.
to Françoise in September 1962, after her television performance of “Tous Les Garçons Et Les Filles”. The melodic and sen -
timental song instantly became a hit. By the end of the year, 500,000 of her records had been sold.
Alamy.com
“YÉ-YÉ “ MUSIC STAR
The year 1963 was an incredibly successful one for Françoise Hardy. On January 5, “Paris Match” published her cover portrait, declaring the young performer a new French music idol. Film Director, Claude Lelouch, is shooting the first video for the “Tous Les Garçons Et Les Filles”. In February, Françoise goes on her first big tour, and in March she is performing at the Eurovision. Following this, Roger Vadim invites her to star in “The Castle in Sweden”. Her debut album is also awarded the Académie Charles-Cros prize. In November 1963, that is just a year after her first television appearance, she is performing for eight weeks at the legendary Olympia Hall. By the end of the year, her “forty-fives” (45 rpm records) are selling by millions. Her songs translated into a number of languages are a huge success worldwide.
Her exquisite and natural beauty is revealed to the general public by her “Pyg -
malion”, the photographer Jean-Marie Périer. Francoise is then an icon for the fashion houses of André Courrèges, Paco Rabanne and Yves Saint Laurent. She is performing with all the pop stars of the day, starring in a number of films. The press nicknames her icon of the new musical “yé-yé” movement.
A meeting with composer Gabriel Yared in 1977 marks a new stage in Françoise’s career. The singer is releasing a number of popular albums. In 1988, however, she officially stops performing. Six years later, her “Le Danger” is released, followed by six more albums in the early 2000s (the last one is released in 2018, 56 years after the very first).
“LOVE OF MY LIFE”
In 1967, Françoise falls in love with the young singer Jacques Dutronc. The modest, thick-glassed young man at
first does not catch the famous performer’s attention. But eventually Françoise completely succumbs to his charm. The lovers alternately live together in Corsica. In 1973 their only son, Thomas, is born. In 1981 they finally get married. Living together, however, is a serious challenge for the two creative individuals. In addition, Françoise is hurt by Jacques’s love affairs… primarily the one with a fellow actress, Romy Schneider, on the set of “The Main Thing Is to Love.”
In 1987, the couple is officially separated. Françoise is now living in Paris, and Jacques, in their house in Corsica. In spite of that, they remained officially married until the last day, maintaining very hearty relations. Françoise called Jacques the love of her life. Not a day passed by without them keeping in touch: “It’s so wonderful to care about each other and be able to say so more than fifty years after... Jacques and Thomas are the people I love more than anything in the world.”
LITERATURE AND ASTROLOGY
In October 2008, Françoise Hardy released a bestseller, “The Despair of Monkeys... and Other Little Things” autobiography. Her new novel “Mad Love”, and the same named album, were being sold from the end of October 2012.
The famous performer’s other hobby was astrology. For the first time, Françoise turned to an astrologer for advice in 1963. In 1980, Michel Bassi, then director of Radio Monte-Carlo, invited her to host a weekly astrology program. Françoise had an eight year career on the radio, also publishing several books on astrology and graphology.
ILLNESS
In 2004, Françoise Hardy was diagnosed with lymphoma. Having spent two weeks in a coma in 2015, she recovered and returned home after a long treatment. Since 2021, her health had deteriorated significantly. She was an ardent advocate of legalizing euthanasia in France. A person who would evoke that much respect and sympathy from her fellow countrymen, having courageously fought her disease for twenty long years, is hard to find
Françoise Hardy poses during the Paris Book Fair held at Porte de Versailles on March 14, 2009. Photo by Denis Guignebourg / ABACAPRESS.COM Alamy.com
PRINCE JACQUES I, “Voltaire of Monaco”
By Angelina Clibbens
Princes of Monaco are largely remembered thanks to their particular contribution made to the Principality. Thus Prince Charles III is known for his entrepreneurial and adventurous spirit that transformed the life of the country, laying the foundation for its current prosperity. His son Albert I was nicknamed “prince-scientist”, “princereformer” and “prince-pacifist”, whilst his great-great-grandson Rainier III was the “prince-builder”. Prince Honoré III, for his part, is best known for his 63-year reign, the longest in Monegasque and European history. His father, Prince Jacques I, was the opposite, presiding over the country for just under two years. But even if the Norman count failed to push down roots in Monaco and win the love of his subjects, he still managed to go down in history. Prince Jacques I is remembered as a writer and philosopher. His somewhat pessimistic sayings are still relevant some three centuries later.
NORMAN PRINCE AT THE COURT OF MONACO
Jacques de Goyon de Matignon, son of Jacques III, Count of Torigny, and Charlotte de Goyon de Matignon, was born on November 21, 1689, in Torigny, in northwestern France. In 1715, Jacques married Louise-Hippolyte Grimaldi, daughter of Prince Antoine I of Monaco who had no male heir. Refusing to wed a relative as recommended by her father, the sovereign princess
married the one she loved. In the long run, however, it did not bring her happiness. Despite the birth of nine children Jacques de Matignon was not that fond of his wife, spending most of his time at the court of Versailles rather than Monaco. Even the decision made by Prince Antoine I and supported by the French king Louis XIV (that of bestowing the name of Grimaldi, the title of Duke of Valentinois and the right to rule the country to her future husband), never saved the situation.
After the death of her father in February 1731, Louise-Hippolyte was the second woman in history to sit on the Monaco throne (fol -
Portrait of Jacques I, Prince of Monaco (1689–1751). Private Collection.
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lowing Claudine, daughter of Catalan, in the 15th century). Sadly, her life and reign were but short-lived. In the same 1731, the Princess died of smallpox at the age of 34. Jacques de Matignon thus unexpectedly found himself head of the Principality. Having barely waited for his son Honoré to come of age, just two years later he abdicated and moved to France for good.
“VOLTAIRE OF MONACO”
At the age of 45, the Monegasque prince retired to the family hotel of Matignon (the French prime minister’s current residence). He also owned the Hotel Marquis de Ségure, in the middle of a vast green area (presently Passy). Prince Jacques devoted himself entirely to art and writing. A patron of the artist Van Loo and the composer Couperin, he is also remembered as the author of many catchphrases and an enthusiastic collector. His apt maxims cover a wide spectrum from politics to interpersonal relationships.
It must be said that for a former head of state and a frequent guest at the French court, Prince Jacques was quite cynical and disrespectful in his comments about power. Here are some examples:
l “The courts would be deserted and the kings almost alone, if only we were cured of vanity and self-interest.”
l “The court is a country where your every breath requires an antidote.”
l “If you want to succeed in politics, do not be ashamed of anything, intrigue whenever you can, lure out anyone you can, feel hatred or affection depending on your own benefit, lend money only to those who will return it a hundredfold, be favourable to everyone and always have two bowstrings in your bow.”
l “Laws are like a web that only stops small flies. The strongest violate them.”
l “The ignorance of the sovereign has such dangerous consequences that it is the main source of evil for a state.”
As for religion, Prince Jacques shared the enlightenment spirit of Voltaire and Rousseau.
l “There is no fabric more flexible than the cloak of religion.”
l “The heart is the true temple of religion.”
In matters of public order, Jacques de Matignon was faithful to classical principles, alongside La Fontaine and La Rochefoucauld.
l “You should live freely; where there is no freedom, there is no pleasure.”
l “The most dangerous enemies at court are those who seek to destroy you by praising you.”
l “We make mistakes all our lives. All that remains for us to do is die reformed.”
l “Everyone likes to reason, reasonable people are but few.”
In his statements on human feelings, Jacques I shows a remarkable wisdom. Did he follow his own principles, however? That remains to be seen.
Jean Baptiste van Loo. Portrait of Louise Hippolyte of Monaco (1687–1731) with a view overlooking Monaco, circa 1730.
The Hôtel Matignon is the official residence of the Prime Minister of France. It is located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris.
https://en.wikipedia.org/
l “God doesn’t need lightning to punish people. Leaving them to themselves and their own passions is enough.”
l “To make a mistake, it’s enough to just be human. To persist in it, you have to be insane.”
l “Life is a constant battle with your own self.”
An unfortunate family experience must have made Jacques the First quite a misogynist. Some of his statements about the fair sex are fairly abrupt.
l “Anger, love and contradiction are the natural food for women.”
l “Women are never that ready for a betrayal then when we love them with all our hearts.”
l “Women are behind the scenes, but they are the ones who play the main characters in the tragedies and revolutions of the world.”
l “Chastity is more of a virtue of mind, than that of a body.”
This is the legacy Jacques I, who once reigned over Monegasque subjects, left in our minds.
A KEEN COLLECTOR
The art collections of the Princely Palace of Monaco arouse a constant admiration with the visitors to this independent state. The abundance of paintings, sculp -
tures and gold items is another proof of the Grimaldis’ glory and power.
Between 1732 and 1740, part of the rich princely collection was therefore moved from Monaco to Paris. Jacques de Matignon significantly enriched the ancient painting treasures of the Grimaldis, mostly represented by the originals and copies of Bassan, Titian, Bruegel de Velours, Veronese, Rubens, Rembrandt, Van Dyck, Paul Brill, David Teniers, Poussin and Bourdon... The collection was living to the rhythm of new acquisitions, framings, restorations and commissions for Parisian or Monegasque artists. Engravings made it possible to publish some of the most remarkable specimens.
A lover of the true values of the past, Prince Jacques I also paid tribute to his contemporaries, such as Watteau, Nattier and Boucher. He was particularly interested in the Flemish school. Jacques was a truly multifaceted collector — from coins and medals to marble and bronze; his collections included books, porcelain and tapestries. This was not just a matter of fashion and prestige, a desire to demonstrate his dynastic glory, but a real pleasure, an integral part of his personality.
Jacques de Matignon died on April 23, 1751 in Paris. For some 300 years no other ruler of Monaco bore his name. In the future, however, the country will be ruled by the crown prince, Jacques Honoré Rainier, named after his distant ancestor.
The Family of the Duke of Valentinois (circa 1730) by Pierre Gobert. Princess Louise-Hyppolite, wife of Jacques de Matignon, and their children. The future Prince Honoré II is the first on the left.
VILLENEUVELOUBET’S RICH HISTORY: A Journey Through
Princely Connections
By Justin Brisk
Villeneuve-Loubet has an extraordinary history woven into the journey through time of the Grimaldi family. And history does not stop there with those personalities and royalty that held its Fortress safe and roamed its forests. Villeneuve-Loubet has a lively future yet to unfold attached to the Princes of Monaco and their fondness for those sites where their footsteps trod in building a 700 year dynasty. Villeneuve-Loubet made its mark for posterity!
A CENTURY OF VILLENEUVE UNDER THE GRIMALDIS
The scene is set … Kings, Counts, Lords and Princes, as well as Popes and Emperors all positioning around Monaco in the Middle Ages vying for control of its strategic position, its Rock Fortress and strategic harbour able to fortify fleets and pose a threat to enemies patrolling the Mediterranean. The Grimaldis rooted here are key to the balance of power among the powerful factions. And in 1312, the King of Naples called upon Rainier I, First Lord of Monaco for help. Rainier, appointed admiral of France, had in prior years saved the royal fleet of Philip IV (Philippe le Bel), in 1304 against the Flemish.Robert, King of Naples, being occupied with his duties in his home base, needed a faithful man to take charge of his fiefdom of Villeneuve in the South of France, a sensitive point in the defense of the territory between Antibes and the Var. Thus Rainier of Monaco was appointed as
Unveiling of a plaque denoting the town’s affiliation to the “Grimaldi Historic Sites of Monaco” network in June, 2023
castellan of Villeneuve by decision of Robert the Wise. Rainier I of Monaco became the captain of the fortress and was responsible for its defense and good order. This marks the first appearance of the Grimaldis in the history of Villeneuve.
Two years later Rainier I died and his eldest son Charles formally took over this task for almost half a century. However, stretched thin and occupied in Italy in the service of the King of Naples, Charles appointed a vice-castellan for the administration of the Villeneuve castle.
Upon the death of Charles Grimaldi, Rainier II took control for almost a further three decades putting in his own vice-castellans. Rainier II had entered this story in 1357. To thank the latter for his services, especially military, Queen Joan, Queen of Naples and Countess of Provence granted him the lordship of Villeneuve in the early 1360s. Finally, in 1385, Queen Marie, Queen of both Anjou and Naples, who had married the Holy Roman Emperor Sigismund and who was focused on power struggles in Hungary en -
dowed Villeneuve to two brothers, cousins of Rainier II, Marc and Luc Grimaldi, capping a century of governance until around the year 1417 when the Grimaldi family lost control of the lordship of Villeneuve. Counting from 1312 to 1417 the Grimaldi family had been placed by the crown at the head of the castle of Villeneuve for a century.
The Grimaldi only indirectly returned to Villeneuve in 1437 when Pierre Lascaris, husband of Catherine, granddaughter of Marc Grimaldi, purchased Villeneuve.
HOW THE “SCIENTIST PRINCE” BECAME THE “PRINCELY
HUNTER” IN VILLENEUVE
What is also exciting about Villeneuve-Loubet is the imagery of two great personalities of the time Prince Albert I of Monaco and another great personality whom it would be fair to call the Prince of Cuisine, Auguste Escoffier. So just over 100 years ago the destinies of
the Principality and Villeneuve-Loubet were yet again entwined.
It was Albert I, the “Scholar and Scientist Prince,” who frequently visited VilleneuveLoubet before World War I to indulge in hunting … especially for woodcock, we learn via archives. Albert I was active not only on the sea but on hunting expeditions. This sporting activity was recommended to him by his doctor because Prince Albert I was not actually as accustomed to the Mediterranean climate as much as one might think and did not tolerate the climate of the Côte d’Azur well. Unable to hunt in Monaco, Villeneuve-Loubet became his playground.
The Prince’s hunting practice was important and took on different forms. Firstly, it was for him a physical exercise allowing him to be in contact with nature and to utilize all the capabilities of his body. Furthermore, being on seafaring expeditions much of the time, it was also an opportunity to travel on land and discover the world through exploring new hunting grounds. It also involved socializing, as hunting parties provided oc-
Villeneuve-Loubet is typical of the heritage of the hinterland villages of Nice.
casions for discussions with other dignitaries or notable figures from civil society like Auguste Escoffier who was born here.
AUGUSTE ESCOFFIER, MONTE-CARLO’S PRINCE OF CUISINE
Born into a modest family on 28 October 1846 in Villeneuve-Loubet, the son of a farrier, at the age of thirteen Auguste Escoffier entered apprenticeship to his uncle, who ran the “Restaurant Français” in Nice. In October 1884, he became the Chef of the “Grand Hotel” in Monte-Carlo. It was managed by César Ritz. This was an important time in the career of both men, because their respective genius would allow them an extraordinary collaboration begun in MonteCarlo that would result in the creation of the international luxury hospitality trade.
The future King of Denmark, Frederick VIII, Empress Elisabeth of Austria, King Francis II of the Two-Sicilies, Queen Victoria, the Prince of Wales, the Emperor of Brazil Don Pedro and the Grand Dukes of Russia came to MonteCarlo, all rivalling in luxury and magnificence.
At this time, Escoffier’s menus were often created in homage to the great ladies of this society: Réjane salad, Rachel Mignonnettes of quail, Pears Mary Garden, Poularde Adelina Patti, Coupe Yvette, Strawberries Sarah Bernhardt, Peach Melba...
All the European aristocracy, the “kings” of American industry, and the greatest artists
WOODCOCK ON THE MENU?
of the time, used to the refinement of César Ritz’s hotels and Escoffier’s cuisine sought them out. The Castellanes, the Breteuils, the Radziwills, the Rudinis, the Vanderbilts, Sarah Bernhardt and Nellie Melba would follow suit. It was for this famous Australian singer that in 1894 Auguste Escoffier would create his famous desert, the “Peach Swan”, in homage to her talent after hearing her in
Could Prince Albert I and Auguste Escoffier have shared a dinner together..? They would have struck a magnificent site with the impeccably dressed Prince Albert I and Escoffier elegant in his famous strictly-cut frock coat as he only put on his waistcoat and chef’s hat on Sundays. One could imagine them sharing a glass of wine over a delicious serving of woodcock hunted by Prince Albert and perfectly cooked by Escoffier.
Almost all who have eaten woodcock say that it is the king of game birds. The flavour of woodcock is said to be like nothing else. They say the earth moves when you bite into one that has been perfectly cooked: pink. Only the best for these great world figures.
The secret to well prepared woodcock would have been demonstrated by Auguste Escoffier. When roasting small game birds such as woodcock the roasting temperature must be high. How high? 500 degrees Fahrenheit high! Heaven forbid an undercooked or overcooked woodcock with the masterchef of the world involved.
Prince Albert I of Monaco (left) and Auguste Escoffier (right) were almost the same age: Escoffier was just two years older.
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Wagner’s Lohengrin at Covent Garden. This desert became the “Peach Melba”.
Did you know that Escoffier invented the fixed price menu? Many things that we take for granted today Escoffier invented.
Other coups included, during a great ball for 600 people, to serve a cold dish called “Aurora Nymphs’ Legs”, happy to have the English — who called the French people “froggies” — unknowingly eat frogs legs, with a little help from the Prince of Wales who adored them.
Great hospitality rivals wrote: “I will sack my Chef, I would be stupid to try and rival Ritz and Escoffier”.
Escoffier also took Paris and London by storm until 1920, the year he retired to Monte-Carlo. He resided in the house he had purchased in 1884 and where his wife lived, thus achieving the work on which he was fixated: the development of French cuisine, not only in England but throughout the entire world.
Auguste Escoffier died on February 12, 1935 in his home in Monte-Carlo, two weeks after his wife Delphine. He is buried, according to his desire, in the cemetery of Villeneuve-Loubet.
A ROYAL RENDEZVOUS: PRINCE ALBERT II’S STROLL THROUGH VILLENEUVE-LOUBET
Fast forward to the future and in a display of tradition and homage, H.S.H. Prince Albert II graced Villeneuve-Loubet with His presence on a balmy Monday, June 12, 2023.Upon His arrival, the Sovereign Prince was greeted with warmth by the Mayor of Villeneuve-Loubet, Lionnel Luca. Their journey commenced with the unveiling of a distinguished marker denoting the city’s affiliation to the esteemed “Historic Sites Grimaldi of Monaco” network, underscoring the enduring ties that bind. Subsequently, H.S.H. the Prince, accompanied by His retinue, traversed the cobblestone paths to the Town Hall. Here, in the Council Chamber, speeches echoed, paying homage to the past and envisioning a harmonious future. In a poignant gesture, the Prince unveiled a commemorative plaque, etching His visit into time.
The Prince then embarked on a journey through history, making a pilgrimage to the storied 16th-century Château de Vaugrenier. Mayor Lionnel Luca, ever the affable host, lent a touch of levity to the proceedings as they entered the town hall. “We are not exchanging vows today,” had quipped
the Mayor, “but rather celebrating a union forged in history!” A few moments prior, in a symbolic act of unity, Mayor Lionel Luca and Prince Albert II jointly hoisted the Monaco flag aloft on the freshly erected sign at the village’s entrance. With this gesture, the municipality was formally anointed as a “Historical Grimaldi Site of Monaco.”
While the name Grimaldi in Monaco is very familiar to all Monegasques and visitors, the history of this illustrious family elsewhere, is less well known. The enumeration of titles held by the House of Monaco (Duke of Valentinois, Marquis of Baux, Count of Carladès, Baron of Saint-Lô, of Hambye, Count of Longjumeau... to name a few) demonstrates the extent and diversity. These titles, acquired through diplomatic agreements or matrimonial alliances, root the Grimaldi in numerous regions of France and Italy. Nearly 100 sites thus have a connection with the Grimaldis. From this remarkable inventory of monuments, sites, towns, and villages, sprouted the idea of an Association of Historic Grimaldi Sites of Monaco. This is the
aim of the association. A route, a network that will allow history and heritage enthusiasts to discover the narrative of 700 years of a family whose members have left an indelible mark on these places in France and Italy.
Many sites, logically, are located in the AlpesMaritimes. Menton, Roquebrune-Cap Martin, Cagnes-sur-Mer, Grasse, Puget-Théniers and Peille; there are 41 in the department. But the influence of the Grimaldi family extended to Alsace, Brittany, Corsica, and Italy. The association, created in 2015, now has over a hundred members. Mayor of Peille, Cyril Piazza, who chairs the association, explains: “There is already the website, on which each municipality presents its history with Monaco. The next step will be to have a QR code so that people visiting these municipalities can access this history and discover its secrets.”
The municipality of Villeneuve-Loubet has already applied to host and take part in the next edition of the Grimaldi Historical Sites Meetings, typically sited around the Palace surrounds in Monaco.
Prince Albert II of Monaco and Lionnel Luca, mayor of Villeneuve-Loubet
After the special Monet event last summer, an equally exceptional exhibition of the incredible Joseph Mallord William Turner is now in store for us. He was a pioneer, the first one to have honoured what he saw, to have left the light to do the magic, on its own, in his mythical landscapes. This contemplative nature lover had transferred his emotions and the evanescent colour of the elements onto the canvas long before the Impressionists. Admiring his paintings, we become ecstatic, almost reaching ex-
altation. This is precisely what the majestic scenography of the Grimaldi Forum is treating us to.
Masterpieces loaned by the legendary Tate of London, some of which have barely left the United Kingdom, are likened to modern creations (paintings, sculptures, installations, photographs) by major contemporary artists: John Akomfrah, Edward Burtynsky, Peter Doig, Olafur Eliasson, Howard Hodgkin, Roni Horn, Richard Long, Lisa Milroy, Cornelia Parker, Katie Pat-
erson, Laure Prouvost, Mark Rothko, Wolfgang Tillmans, James Turrell and Jessica Warboys. This “confrontation” establishes a fascinating dialogue, helping us grasp Turner’s innovative style on the way towards abstraction. Almost in spite of himself, he is guided by his emotions when facing ever-changing nature, truly making a mark in the history of art. According to the curator, Elizabeth Brook: “To this day, these contemporary works are demonstrating the relevance of Turner’s landscapes exploring the sublime.”
Joseph Mallord William Turner. The Fall of an Avalanche in the Grisons, exhibited 1810. Oil paint on canvas. Tate
Joseph Mallord William Turner. Tivoli: Tobias and the Angel, c.1835. Oil paint on canvas. Tate
Thirty-eight oil paintings and some forty watercolours and gouaches are now exposed in the vast space of the Grimaldi Forum. We get to explore the landscapes which marked the painter who travelled from Venice to Grenoble, lingering on water reflections, mountain silhouettes, sunsets, equally surveying all the regions of his native England. A tireless walker in search of intense emotions, thrills and fascination. In quest of the sublime.
Turner, the sublime heritage Grimaldi Forum Monaco 10, avenue Princesse Grace
CHAGALL’S CRY FOR FREEDOM IN NICE
Until September 16
Meret Meyer, the artist’s granddaughter, commented with emotion on the exhibition during the inaugural visit.
This summer the Marc Chagall National Museum in Nice is hosting an exceptional exhibition. It’s a radically new look at the works of this major 20th century artist. Originally from the city of Vitebsk in Belarus, the Russian Empire at the time, Chagall lived through the tsarist anti-Semitic persecutions, the two world wars, exile and heartbreak. The bearer of a sumptuous “Biblical Message” including twelve paintings of Genesis and Exodus, and five evoking the Song of Songs, he is considered a genius colourist, a poet, a dreamer and an inspired religious texts’ reader. He is, of course, all that. The political, somewhat militant dimension of his art, however, remained in the shade for decades.
This very timely exhibition in Nice is the fruit of a truly Benedictine archival
and documentary work carried out by the artist’s granddaughter. Present at the opening, Meret Meyer emphasized her grandfather’s profoundly humanist commitment. Thanks to exceptional loans, some true masterpieces were revealed to us, including the “Solitude”. The painting was produced in 1933 as Hitler came to power. A deeply desolate rabbi, carrying the books of Law, is accompanied by a white cow. With its lively and immense eye, the animal seems to symbolize an awakening of the tragedies to come. Another canvas that cannot leave anyone indifferent is “Purim”. Painted in 1916, it was exhibited in Germany by the Nazis in 1937 as an example of degenerate art!
The exhibition features a number of other documents, attesting to the past century’s
turbulence that had affected the greatest painters of modernity. Two engravings, illustrating Anne Franck’s book, and “Prayer of Remembrance” produced in 1946, mutingly evoke, with an incredible simplicity, the horror of the Shoah. The truly historical and political dimension is still more obvious when we read a French administrative note dated October 10, 1940, on the Chagall’s family: “A Russian Israelite, denaturalized being of no national interest”…
This exhibition of a major artistic dimension (but not only) was first presented at the André Diligent Museum of Art and Industry, “La Piscine”, in Roubaix, and at the MAPFRE Foundation in Madrid. Inaugurated on October 7, 2023, doesn’t it bear a sign of destiny...?
A Political Chagall. A Cry for Freedom Marc Chagall National Museum Avenue Dr. Ménard, Nice
Marc Chagall. The Rabbi of Vitebsk. Artwork Location: Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago (IL)
Joseph Mallord William Turner. The Blue Rigi, Sunrise 1842. Watercolour on paper. Tate
It was the epoque of the Riviera luxurious resorts, with the first tourists dazzled by the local light and vegetation. It was a time of change in the history of art, with artists eager to transcribe their emotions, listen to their feelings, daring to see the truth. It was the turning point of impressionism. This year, celebrating the 150th anniversary of this major artistic movement, the Jules Chéret Museum of Fine Arts in Nice is dedicating an exhibition to Berthe Morisot, the first woman artist chosen for this kind of event.
A sensitive, refined artist, she was largely inspired by her two winter stays on the Riviera in the late 19th century. The exhibition is thus a premiere of some sixty works created on the Côte d’Azur.
“I don’t think there’s ever been a man to treat a woman as an equal, and that’s all I would have asked for, because I know I am worth them», she used to say. Endowed with quite a personality, rebellious at times and friends with the greatest painters of
Berthe Morisot. La cueillette des oranges à Cimiez, 1889. Grasse, Musée d’Art et d’Histoire de Provence, inv. 2013.0.2250
Le Port de Nice, 1882. Oil on paper mounted on canvas, 53 × 43 cm. Paris, Musée Marmottan-Monet, inv. 6010
The Princess of Hanover honoured with her presence the opening of this exhibition for which the Prince’s Palace of Monaco lent several works.
her time, Berthe Morisot knew just how to establish herself on the artistic scene. Back in the day, erasing the difference between the sexes was very challenging. Among the masterpieces presented at the Chéret Museum, are two self-portraits, a view of the port of Nice and orange picking in Cimiez. Her landscapes, her characters are bathing in a blur to the point of reaching an abstraction.
This is also an opportunity to admire paintings by Renoir or Monet. Some of them, including a view of the Principality, are loaned by the Princely Palace of Monaco.
And finally, in resonance with the pioneering artist Berthe Morisot and her extraordinary journey, a sequence is dedicated to her contemporaries. This exposition is bringing together works by Mary Cassatt, Eva Gonzalès, Marie
Bashkirtseff and Louise Breslau, highlighting the tremendous abundance of the feminine creation on the Riviera during the Belle-Epoque. Challenging the norms in painting, impressionism had also done so for our entire society.
Berthe Morisot in Nice. Impressionist stops Jules Chéret Museum of Fine Arts 33, Avenue des Baumettes, Nice
SEA HORIZON WITH MIQUEL BARCELÓ AT VILLA PALOMA, IN MONACO
Until October 13
Oceanography is part of the Principality’s DNA. The summer exhibition at Villa Paloma is thus perfectly fitting into Monaco’s history. This summer the New National Museum of Monaco (NMNM) is presenting a Mallorca-born artist, Miquel Barceló. Acccording to the NMNM director and exhibition curator, Björn Dahlström: “This is a true plastic genius, both painter and ceramist. I thought it interesting to highlight him under quite a definite prism, that of his relationship to the sea. There is obviously an ecological subtext here. Even if his work is not strictly speaking militant, it does question our conscience. I like exhibitions that provoke rather than those that explain. Barceló is an islander, a great Mediterranean figure”.
Some sixty works, summing up forty years of creation, are taking us exploring the different paths taken by the artist. We embark on an exciting journey starting from the exploration of the abyss to the human figure visible behind the seascapes and still lifes. Among other noticeable objects, a powerful composition of waves, a bronze installed in the garden and antiquity-inspired ceramics. There is even a proper marine bestiary decorating tablecloths and sheets — embroidery made four-handed by the painter and his mother.
A major contemporary artist, transformed into an oceanographer for the time of this exhibition in Monaco.
Miquel Barceló, oceanographer Villa Paloma 56, boulevard du Jardin Exotique, Monaco
This summer, take a dream opportunity to visit the charming medieval village of Tourrettessur-Loup, in the Vence hinterland. Inspired by this town of “violets”, cultivating its shy purple flower for many centuries, a visual artist has taken over its castle-town hall.
Ulrich Rampp is offering us a leap into the future. A bleak one due to global warming. We are in 2050. The ice floes and glaciers have almost all melted, and the waters have risen as high as the castle-town hall. With the mayor taking refuge on the 2nd floor and the employees forced to swim to work, this sinister scenario is taking on somewhat of a humourous tinge.
The visual artist took over two years to illustrate this dramatic episode.
Using recycled tracing paper, he painted the waves, submerging the building, in soft tones of blue and white. Same material is used to render a peculiar ballet of jellyfish, salmon and flying fish. This colourful and fun installation, however, is alerting us of the dangers to come. Large canvases are presenting the cosmogony of our planet in explosions of light and pigments.
This exhibition is a nod to the precarious predicament we all live in. Foreseeing the worst, its elegant shapes and vital colours are still giving hope. A nice message that gives food for thought and deserves a stop in this town hall, determined to serve artists and delight its visitors.
Cosmogonie. L’histoire de la Terre et du vivant Castle Town Hall, Tourrettes-sur-Loup
We are in 2050 and the town hall is under water...
Ulrich Rampp designed an installation to raise awareness
THE MAEGHT FOUNDATION: 60 YEARS OF LOVE FOR ART AND ARTISTS
By Nicole Laffont
“This one is not a museum.” This is what André Malraux, then Minister of Culture, said at the Maeght Foundation opening on July 28, 1964. These words fairly describe these walls to this day. The Foundation is not a museum, nor an art centre, nor a cultural institution, nor a sculpture park, nor a palace... It is a living story of love and friendship between an inspired, marvellous, visionary couple, Marguerite and Aimé Maeght, and that of the biggest 20th century art figures. That day, 60 years ago, witnessed something unprecedented and radically new. The doors initially opened to only welcome artist friends and culture personalities around conferences on art. And they never closed since.
When you first walk into this place, surrounded by the fragrant nature of SaintPaul de Vence, you feel something indescribable. A philosopher Vladimir Jankélevitch would name it a “je ne sais quoi”. It’s a strange feeling of wonder, fullness and serenity. As if time stood still, as if nothing existed except this magical communion between the elements and the founding works of modern times. Marguerite and Aimé Maeght must have left a part of their soul here. This foundation was born out of love for living artists (most of whom have since passed away) and to share their passion for modern and contemporary art with all audiences. Since then, millions of people from all continents have discovered this generous spirit inhabiting the walls, the gardens, the terraces, the chapel, the Giacometti courtyard and the Miró labyrinth...
SUFFERING, FRIENDSHIP AND REDEMPTION
This first foundation for modern and contemporary art in Europe, however, was born out of suffering and pain. Marguerite and Aimé Maeght had two sons. Adrien is still chairing the Foundation, preserving its mem -
Aimé and Marguerite Maeght at the inauguration dinner of the Maeght Foundation in 1964
Photo: Archives Fondation
Maeght
ory and continuity. There was also his younger brother, Bernard. Taken away by leukemia at the age of twelve, this
tragedy left the family deeply scarred … a family already profoundly linked to the biggest names in the world of art. Paris -
ian Matisse and Bonnard dealers, the Maeghts were rubbing shoulders with the greatest precursors of modernity:
The Sculpture Garden. Joan Miró, Character, 1970, Bronze. Joan Miró, Character, 1972, Resin. Photo Olivier Amsellem - Foundation Archives
The Giacometti Courtyard. Alberto Giacometti. Walking Man I, 1960. Walking Man II, 1960. Grande Femme Debout I (Standing Woman I), 1960. Grande Femme Debout II (Standing Woman II), 1960. Large Head, 1960, Bronze. Photo Olivier Amsellem - Foundation Archives
When their youngest son died, the artists did everything in their power to help the devastated parents. “We have to do something big!”. Everyone encouraged the Maeght couple. “I’ll bring you my smear. I’ll even paint the rocks,” — went Fernand Léger. And George Braque said it all: “When I have a serious problem, I opt for something that is totally beyond my control. So that it becomes the only thing I could think about!” This is how this crazy, grandiose, totally innovative project came about.
Nowadays the Maeght Foundation is celebrating its 60th anniversary, inaugurating new spaces designed by Silvio d’Ascia. The architect is following in the footsteps of Josep Lluís Sert who designed this historic building, blending into the landscape, respecting the relief, trees, panorama, preserving its nature and spirit.
“We doubled the surface area without touching on what was already there. We dug under the Giacometti courtyard and had the period materials manufactured identically. Silvio d’Ascia was chosen for
his sensitivity and respect for the place. The Foundation’s architecture remained intact. With nothing seemingly changed, the digging gained us some 800 square metres of exhibition rooms, a terrace dedicated to Miró’s sculptures and large bay windows opening onto the valley”, — explains the Foundation’s administrator, Marguerite and Aimé’s granddaughter Isabelle Maeght.
These adjustments will reveal more works to the public, given the Foundation’s impressive collections (more than 13,000 items). Thanks to the four new rooms, a permanent display and a temporary thematic exhibition will be simultaneously available.
BONNARD AND MATISSE THIS SUMMER
The exhibition “Friendships, Bonnard-Matisse for the 60th anniversary of the Maeght Foundation” is open until October 6. The two
great masters are the first to embark on this fabulous adventure. Their ties with the Maeght couple were unwavering. So much so that, according to Isabelle Maeght, it was her grandfather who would pick up Mrs. Matisse from the Orsay station, deported for Resistance activities during World War II. Quite an illustration of this extraordinary friendship.It was therefore a natural thing to choose these two painters for the 60th anniversary celebration.
“This is an exhibition full of sensitivity and tenderness,” Isabelle Maeght is commenting. Rare works and numerous documents witness a story of friendship and art between the two men. Their visions of the Riviera light, landscapes, workshops and portraits, reveal the particularities of each one of the masters. A dreamlike and fascinating walk illustrating the importance of sharing, confrontations and links shaping the history of Art … the History that the Maeght couple served so well throughout their lives.
Henri Matisse. Woman reading, 1922. Oil and pencil on canvas, 73 × 60 cm. Collection of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.
Photo J. Geneyns
Pierre Bonnard. Self-portrait, 1930 Watercolour, gouache, pencil on paper, 61.5 × 52.2 cm Private collection
How world-famous auctioneer Simon De Pury brought the hammer down on the work of Daria Usova for 50,000 Euros at just 36
By Helena Litvak
Daria Usova, a respected artist of the Principality, shares her background and offers a fresh perspective as she explores the power of the law of attraction and her Portals series. Combining traditional techniques with augmented reality, Daria’s art provides a revolutionary 3D-like experience. It’s more than just observing art; it’s about experiencing it firsthand and uncovering deeper layers of meaning within ourselves. Daria’s artistic approach is metaphysical, reflecting the changing era of knowledge and selfdiscovery, as she explores astrology, psychology, and personal growth.
HelloMonaco had the pleasure of speaking with Daria at her charming studio in Monaco.
HelloMonaco: Daria, what do you think served you to have world famous auctioneer Simon de Pury bring the hammer down on your work for 50,000 euros at just 36?
Daria Usova: I believe there are two components that led to this result: first is my journey becoming an artist, which I began thanks to my family while I was only 6 years old and having my own technique of collage that I patented at a mere 23 years of age. And the second, probably the most important is, I am convinced that everything that we constantly think about and visualize emotionally certainly happens and it works flawlessly. I’m talking about the fact that miracles happen precisely to those who believe in their possibility and act as if it could not be otherwise. This is not my first contact with Simon; he is a collector of my art. I created a portrait of Simon with his famous hammer standing in the middle of the Cosmic universe — the World of Art, and actually, it was then that I had the desire for Simon to bring the hammer down on my work at one of his auctions. Of course, I did not know that it would happen during the “Rewild The Planet” event of Prince Albert II’s Foundation Charity Gala.
: Have you had any other extraordinary events in your life that have set you on this path?
DU: Yes, there are many. I realized this in my 20s, when my works project ended up in one of the most prestigious galleries in Moscow at the time and were exchanged with the foundation of the Guggenheim Museum in New York. And today I can proudly say that my works can be found in world collections such as the Dolce Gabbana Family, the Kardashian Family, Prince Albert II, the last King of Egypt, Brian Ferry, Larry Gagosian, and the list goes on.
: So you are saying, you can shape your own reality? And then how does this translate into your art?
DU: Of course, all my art creations are fragments of life I want to experience and every one of them is a tool for visualizing those events and situations that I want to live. All my Art works are about this. And it so happened that I chose to work in my own technique of collage. It allows me to create an
artwork and fill it with thousands of details put together to evoke the desired emotional state.
It is a tool that allows you to connect the present with the desired future. I called it Metaphysical Art and this is a new direction
Portrait of Simon de Pury, collage 90×90 2019
Mars Portal, collage 130×200 2022
in the world of art, and I can courageously say that I am its founder.
: What is the meaning of Metaphysical Art?
DU: Metaphysical is derived from the word Meta, which means “beyond” — Beyond Physical. You see, we live in an era when humanity is experiencing Awakening, people are starting to look for answers to questions that lie beyond our physical awareness — metaphysical reality. And as such, this theme will be dwelled upon more and more with time.
: Metaphysical art, as you call it, does it cross any school of thought?
DU: I use my collage technique, creating an image which I fill with details primarily re -
lated to the emotional state, thus evoking a desired state of the viewer to act without fear and realize desired life situations. And yes, this is based on the New Age school of thought, which includes such terms as visualization, manifestation, and law of attraction, human design, astrology and selfdevelopment, but this is a separate topic; I don’t think we can cover it in this interview.
: For our readers, which one of your Projects most easily tells the viewer that he or she has the power to change his reality and create whatever events are desired?
Scan the QR Code
and point towards the work to experience Augmented Reality
DU: It is my last project, which I called Portals, and it is through those portals that I show the viewer that he is always present in front of a portal that can transport him from one reality into another, and it is in our own mind. Specifically with this series I tell the viewer that he is free to move from one life situation to a completely different one at any moment in time. My art is about unlimited possibilities, that everything is possible if you really want it and by itself is the tool for implementing the desired change.
If you want to see more about Daria’s art scan the Qr code to visit her Official Instagram Page.
Oasis, collage,130×200 2022
«Rewild the Planet». Daria Usova and Simon de Pury before auction
Aries horoscope collage 90×90 2024
CHÂTEAU LA COSTE: a
walk through a wine estate, revealing masterful art
By Nicole Laffont
A huge spider by Louise Bourgeois floating on a body of water is welcoming you at Château La Coste reception. The pool, just as the restaurant, the boutique and the building reflecting light through imposing bay windows, is designed by a Japanese genius architect, Tadao Ando. Dres sing the walls in silky concrete, he is giving it a variety of reflections in perfect harmony with the perspective.
These are the very first images, making you fall in love with this vast estate known for its refined 100 % organic wines. Its aluminum cellars bear the prestigious signature of Jean Nouvel. A few kilometres away from Aix-enProvence, Château La Coste covers an area of 200 hectares. Vines are spreading as far as the eye can see. Masterful works
of art are winding along the paths, between olive trees, umbrella pines, oaks and cypresses.
Here art is expressed in perfect harmony with the landscape. Unsurprisingly, the great master Cézanne was favouring this sunny natural Provençal landscape to create his most beautiful paintings. Château La Coste has become a unique art centre of its kind, essential for all lovers of con -
temporary creation. Some forty works are hidden under the trees, surprising us every time. This bucolic walk takes us from one sculpture to another, from an architectural work to a gallery of temporary exhibitions. There is so much to discover that a day is barely enough to tour the property.
A LUMINOUS MARRIAGE OF ART AND WINE
Never has a marriage between the most subtle wines and most elaborate works of art been celebrated with so much happiness. The art centre right in the middle of vineyards is setting the tone, with the estate welcoming the most prestigious visual artists of our times. The very discreet owner of the place, Irish businessman Patrick McKillen, is aiming for excellence in every way. And he succeeds. On the wine side, he is offering high-end three-coloured bottles. As for the openair museum, it could rival many famous institutions.
At La Coste, wine has been made since 200 years B.C. There were Greeks, Romans, monks, Provencal counts... Nowa -
by Hiroshi Sugimoto
Drop by Tom Shannon
days, the winemaking know-how is part of the overall artistic project. Visitors truly appreciate tastings, offered by the cellars and restaurants, with their perfect food and wine pairings. A refined cuisine in harmony with the spirit of the place. Vi sual artists have the pleasure of expressing themselves in situ. At one with a generous and fragrant nature, they are marking this exceptional journey with their stamp. I believe that “Mater Earth” by Prune Nourry is one of the most striking works. Imagined as a monumental sculpture, a pregnant woman is resting in the grass. This installation suggests the importance of the earth matrix and the absolute necessity of looking after it.
Another very spectacular one is the “Great Red Cross” by Jean-Michel Othoniel. Made in Murano glass, it converses with the minimalist architecture of the chapel by Tadao Ando. A “Drop” by Tom Shannon is also worth mentioning. Once activated, this stainless steel piece gives an unexpected impression of lightness. And let us not forget the latest works by Damien Hirst. Having exhibited this spring in the estate’s temporary galleries, he has greatly enriched the permanent collections with some ten monumental sculptures installed in the outdoor spaces.
This summer, Frenchwoman Claire Tabouret, Chinese artist Ding Yi and American Joel Mesler are on the agenda. These three unique painters will be adding even more charm with significant exhibitions set up in dedicated spaces, created by architects Renzo Piano and Jean-Michel Wilmotte. Great moments
Tired of the hustle and bustle of a big city, dreaming of some peace and quiet? Take a few days to explore a small peaceful village. Less known places off the beaten track often tend to be especially interesting and pleasant in every way. Let us introduce you to one such village in the Occitania region. Goudargues is just a three and a half hours drive from Monaco.
Photo : Viktoria
Marchetta
THE SECRET OF GOUDARGUES CHARM
Gglass of pastis... Late in the evening, when life in French towns traditionally comes to a standstill, restaurants and cafes along the Goudargues canal are unsurprisingly packed full.
This canal, making the fame of the village, is manmade. Back in Roman times, there had already been a road here. An oppidum, a fortified settlement, was thus built next to it, with a perfect view of the Cèze river. Sadly not much is preserved since those days, except the name of “Goudargues” as such. Somewhat Georgian sounding, it is of Latin origin. Gordanicum (or a French ‘gour d’eau’) stands for “a hole with water”, “a reserve keeping water cool even in the midst of heat.” The very first Goudargues residents thus not only settled next to underground springs, but also strived to channel them towards the surface.
THE GOUDARGUES ATTRACTIONS
In the late 8th century, William (Guillaume) of Gellone, Count of Toulouse, defeated the Saracens. To commemorate his victory, he commissioned the construction of a local chapel. The remnants of this oldest Christian church in the Gard department may still be seen around the old cemetery. In 781, Guillaume then ordered the construction of the first monastery in Goudargues. The small chapel of Notre-Dame de Cazeneuve, recognized as a historical heritage monument, is a reminder of it to this day.
In the mid 12th century, Benedictine monks of Aniane, supported by the Uzès diocese, undertook the construction of a new monastery. To protect the area from attacks, to drain the soil and water the
oudargues stands out from the neighbouring villages thanks to a canal running right through the heart of it. On a hot summer’s day, sit by the water and enjoy the shade of two-hundred-year-old plane trees with a Cafes and restaurants along the canal are never empty.
The very heart of the village. A building with yellow shutters was constructed in place of the 12th-century water mill
Photo : Mariya Chereshneva
crops, they came up with an efficient canal system. A water mill was shortly built to produce flour and olive oil that operated up until the mid-twentieth century. It was dismantled not because of wear and tear, but due to the harsh winter of 1956 having taken away most of the local olive trees. 40 metres long and 16 metres wide, the monastery’s church remains the most impressive one in the Languedoc, the historic region in southern France.
Sadly, the monastery was regularly attacked as early as the 13th century. The religious wars of the 16th–17th centuries and the Great French Revolution contributed to its final destruction. A 32-metre capitular hall (a hall where all the monastery residents gathered for prayer and meals) may give us an idea of its original size, however. Nowadays, it is a privileged venue for elections and art exhibitions. The Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Michel church was restored in 1823. In 1939 it was listed among the historical monuments of France.
Not far from the capitular hall you may see a public wash-place (a ‘lavoir’). Re -
cently restored, it is another body of water where you may cool off on a hot summer day. Decorated with a cute bronze frog, it is known to bring good luck. If you stroke the frog, you will get married before the end of the year.
THINGS TO DO IN GOUDARGUES
Goudargues is a perfect place for a relaxing holiday in nature. Forget the hustle and bustle, enjoy
The Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Michel church
At the annual Canal Festival one has fun right in the water.
Photo Jérémy Leclercq
the purest air and absolute peace and quiet. Admire the local vineyards, roses, olive groves and tree orchards, swim in the cleanest Sèze river and eat the local garden produce.
In the morning, as locals do, go for walk, play tennis, canoe, swim, explore the neighbourhood or go shopping. After a compulsory afternoon siesta in the south, spend your evening playing pétanque. Reward your victory with a snack of grilled vegetables and fried merguez sausages. Enjoy the local wine (we particularly recommend the red Château Saint Nabor you may buy right at the local winery, before the Goudargues turn).
On Wednesdays, farmers from nearby villages all come to the main square. Enjoy the abundance of freshest of local produce (sheep and goat cheese, meat cuts, honey, olives and village bread). Treat yourself to scented soap, lavender oil, cute souvenirs or 10-euro espadrilles shoes, Salvador Dali’s favourites.
In the early 1990s, Gerard Depardieu was a regular both at the market and the local bakery. He used to come and see his close friend who owned a house in the hamlet of Goussargues, four kilometres away from Goudargues. Jean Carmet starred in more than two hundred films, he is best known as Planchet from “The Three Musketeers” and as the veterinarian who treated Depardieu’s wounds in “Les Fugitifs”.
One can buy a lot of nice handmade souvenirs at the local market …
... as well as in the little local shops.
Photo Viktoria Marchetta
Photo : Viktoria Marchetta
Photo : Viktoria Marchetta
ONE-DAY TRIPS IN THE AREA
The “Provencal Venice’s” convenient location, close to Occitania’s worldfamous attractions, is another one of its advantages. Visit the highest surviving ancient Roman aqueduct Pont-duGard over the Gardon river, having given the name to this French department. Come and explore the ancient cities of Nîmes and Uzès or the scenic waterfalls of the Cascades du Sautadet, worthy of the attention of Jacques-Yves Cousteau. Explore the medieval villages of Montclus and La Roque-sur-Cèze or the limestone cave of Aven d’Orgnac with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites believed to be one hundred million years old.
The grandiose gorges of the Ardèche are just 20–25 minutes drive away. This 30-kilometre-long “European Grand Canyon” is visited annually by more than a million tourists. 30 years ago, in 1994, the Chauvet Cave with its prehistoric rock paintings was discovered in the Ardèche river valley,
near the town of Vallon-Pontd’Arc. It is now listed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage. Since 2015, its exact copy, Grotte Chauvet 2, is open to the public.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
From mid-July to midAugust the village of Goudargues is packed full. With the advent of tourists, its population of barely a thousand people increases multifold. Goudar gues is particularly popular among the northern Europeans (Belgians, Dutch and Germans). Stocking up for the year to come, they are sunbathing bravely under the scorching sun. Swiss from the Frenchspeaking cantons happily buy holiday homes, coming to Goudargues for the entire summer. Mid-July is lavender harvesting season, with its delightful scent filling the local fields...
restaurants
On August 15, the Canal Festival is traditionally held with everyone dancing, singing and drinking right in the water (which, by the way, sourced by the underground springs, does not exceed 14 degrees all year round).
The Cascades du Sautadet were formed several million years ago.
A lavoir with a frog who brings good luck
Dishes in local
are amazing in size and taste.
Photo Olga
Photo Viktoria Marchetta
Photo : Olga Chereshneva
Over the past few years, the mayor’s office has been trying to cancel the event or limit its participants. The small village just cannot cope with such an influx of visitors...
September is slightly cooler and less packed with tourists, with the river just as clean and perfect for swimming. On top of the summer attractions, you may then go hiking in the local mountains and gorges with no risk of heatstroke.
PLACES TO STAY
Opt for “Les Préludes” guest rooms for a week’s holiday. This is a restored 17th-century house with magnificent garden and forest views. Two kilometres away from Goudargues, it is set in the tiny Protestant hamlet of Ussel. Its few buildings are interconnected by basements. Back in the day, when attacked by the Catholics, the villagers could thus escape underground and hide in the largest house.
Just a stone’s throw away from Ussel is a lovely beach on the Sèze river banks where you may walk right in your swimming suit. “Les Préludes” owners will treat you to a hearty breakfast on the shaded terrace,
cozy hammocks and will even play the piano if you feel nostalgic for music.
For those who demand more comfort we recommend choosing Clos des Sullys hotel in the hamlet of Bernas. This hotel situated in a perfectly restored building of the 12th century has an extraordinary view of the village of Montclus, included in the list of the most beautiful villages in France, an ancient bridge, the emerald Sèze river and lavender fields surrounded by endless forest. Clos des Sullys has a swimming pool, a splash pool for the little ones, a pétanque terrace, table tennis and billiards tables and a superb restaurant worthy of special mention.
RECOMMENDED LUNCH PLACE
We are all for the bistronomic “Le Sully”! The name speaks for itself bringing together haute cuisine and the simplicity and speed characteristic of a bistro. This kind of a restaurant for “friends” was opened by the highly skilled chef, tired of the stuffy atmosphere of prestigious establishments. Usually, bistronomic restau -
rants have a simple interior and affordable prices. Their products, however, are of premium quality, the food is fancy and creative, and the service is hearty (the chef himself could happily come out to the guests to get their feedback, give his grandmother’s recipes and, perhaps, share a digestif).
Depending on the weather and your mood, choose a table in a bright room with a vaulted ceiling or on an open terrace.
USEFUL INFORMATION
All about Goudargues: Office de Tourisme, 4 Route de Pont Saint Esprit, Goudargues
Château Saint Nabor: 2686 Route de Barjac, Cornillon
Les Préludes: 14 Rue du Château d’Eau, Goudargues (reservation : Airbnb)
Clos des Sullys: 2 Rue de la bise de Bernas, Montclus, https://closdessullys.com
Goudargues at sunset
Photo : Mariya Chereshneva
THE GRAND BALL OF PRINCES AND PRINCESSES:
A night of elegance and artistry at The Carlton during Cannes Film Festival
The Grand Salon of The Carlton Cannes served as the opulent stage for The Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses, during Cannes Film Festival, transforming the iconic venue into a realm of regal splendor. Organized by the opera singer Delia Grace Noble, the event transcended the ordinary, fusing together nobility, beauty and artistic performances.
New success last May 22nd for The Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses, exclusive event which delighted about 150 participants. The fairytale unveils its magic once again,
this time at the iconic Carlton, which has been transformed for the occasion into a princely palace. Adorned with gilded columns, crystal chandeliers, and frescoed ceilings, the Grand Salon provided a sumptuous backdrop for an evening steeped in sophistication. Powder
pink roses, delicately fragrant, adorned the Grand Salon, enhancing the enchantment that hung in the air. The setting transported attendees to a bygone era, where the fusion of luxury and timeless beauty painted a tapestry of unparalleled elegance.
Distinguished guests, present at the event came from all over the world to pay tribute to the elegance and memory of Grace Kelly. In the Summer of 1954, the iconic Princess of Monaco graced the halls of Carlton Hotel in Cannes while filming Alfred Hitchcock’s classic, “To Catch a Thief.” This opulent setting, renowned for its grandeur, played host to The Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses, a dazzling event where the aristocratic stories of old seemed to come alive once more. Grace Kelly, with her ethereal beauty and elegance, fit seamlessly into this world of high society and glamour, enhancing the film’s narrative of romance and intrigue. The Carlton Hotel, with its rich history and sumptuous décor, provided the perfect backdrop for the unfolding of these timeless tales, its very walls whispering secrets of bygone nobility at the Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses.
The guests were able to discover the magic of royalty and were transported into the
world of fairy tales. As the evening unfolded, the ballroom came alive with the re -
splendent presence of guests dressed as princesses and gallant princes. Elaborate gowns and majestic military ceremonial uniforms turned the space into a canvas of opulence, reflecting the rich royal history that defines Monaco. Princes and Princesses join together with the night of dreams where they plunged into a different era, a glamorous and mysterious one. From ultimate elegance and opulence up to an epitome of aristocratic charm, The Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses proves, once again, its uniqueness and fascination.
The attendants were transported to a magical world thanks to the artistic direction of Delia Grace Noble, opera singer and UNICEF ambassador, that imagined an event dedicated to the Principality, with decoration, colours, music, dance and culture! The guests discovered the magnificent performance of a true artistic production involving more than 60 artists, including the Italian Army Music Orchestra, the Czech national team of dancers, opera and musical singers, instrumentalists, performers and international ballet stars. At the close of an unforgettable gathering, glittering with the most glamorous of personages, the guests of this noble great ball, who were swept up in the magic of royalty, returned to reality, after a phantasmagorical affair.
The Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses is an unforgettable revival of a dream that will continue to spread the thread of love and sparkling glamour. If the success of this fairytale is any indication, the return of the Princely World Gala in Cannes will most certainly be on the cards in the future for many years to come!
LIBERTEX STOLE THE SHOW IN MONACO BY CO-HOSTING THE ULTIMATE F1 SUPERYACHT
High speed, horsepower and glamour collided in Monaco as the Ultimate F1 Superyacht exclusive party entertaining celebrity motorsport lovers who comfortably seated in their super- and mega-yachts, champagne in hand, berthed at the exclusive dockside to watch the Grand Prix in style.
Co-hosted by Libertex, a renowned financial firm part of the Libertex Group, this exclusive soirée added serendipity to the adrenaline-charged motor race swooshing in the background. More than a posh entertainment event and a display of luxury vessels, the Ultimate F1 Superyacht was the meeting point of Monaco’s high life last May weekend.
GETTING IN POLE POSITION
Pushing the pedal to the metal, Libertex watched Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc cross the finish line first, ahead of McLaren Mercedes’ Piastri and his Ferrari teammate Sainz, in the company of its partner and event organiser Tom Claeren and HelloMonaco magazine, the show’s media partner, from aboard the luxurious superyacht intrepidly dubbed “Seven Sins”.
The French racing Blue Bugatti Chiron “patched“ with the Libertex logo, strategically displayed at the vessel’s stern contributed to the “Wow” factor of the show while the superyacht remained docked. What may look like a well-thought-out
branding and marketing stunt has in fact proved to be so much more.
Skillfully designed to reflect the financial firm’s brand sophistication and innovative spirit, Libertex’s superyacht was the epicentre of the dockside gathering. High-profile investors, celebrities, influencers and F1 aficionados were among the guests looking forward to an evening promising plenty of networking and unforgettable experiences.
The event offered a sensory extravaganza of gourmet cuisine crafted by private chefs, bespoke cocktails by world-class mixologists, with live performances by international artists. Every detail, from the décor to the entertainment, was orchestrated to reinforce Libertex’s brand values of excellence, innovation, and luxury.
When asked “Why the F1 Superyacht?”, Libertex Group’s CMO Marios Chailis said: “The
Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most avidly anticipated motor racing events of the year. It’s a test of resilience but also high skill, speed and anticipation. The superyacht, on the other hand, threw in a muchneeded note of exclusivity and innovation to a sporting event that has over the years become synonymous with entertainment.”
“We are thrilled to have co-hosted this exclusive event alongside our partners Tom Claeren and HelloMonaco. Seeing the Libertex logo decorate this awe-inspiring supercar was indeed exhilarating both for us, as well as our partners and associates who joined us on this truly unique venture that will forever stay etched in everyone’s memory.”
Driving success at the Monaco Grand Prix: Libertex Group CMO Marios Chailis raises a glass to innovation and excellence
For those less familiar with the online trading industry, Libertex operates a leading online trading environment, providing exposure to a vast range of real stocks and contract for difference (CFD) instruments based on widely traded underlying assets, such as Forex, stocks, indices, commodities, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and more.
Part of the Libertex Group, founded in 1997, Libertex is a financial firm that has been committed to offering a stable and secure environment for anyone interested in exploring the financial markets.
Libertex has won more than 45 industry awards, including most recently PAN Fi -
FIVE-STAR BRAND AWARENESS
Associating its name with the highoctane Formula 1 sport and Monaco’s exclusive social life, Libertex positioned itself as a top investment services provider and a brand that can appeal to high and ultra-high-net worth investors.
The celebrities and influencers, each with thousands of followers, attending Lib -
ertex’s superyacht party ensured that the event’s reach extended well beyond the yacht’s confines. Posts, stories and live streams using a variety of branded hashtags soon began to flow on social media in a visual content frenzy. The panoramic display of the superyacht combined with the perceptible excitement of the Grand Prix laid the groundwork for a viral campaign.
Content continued to flow long after the event, with highlight reels, photo galleries, and guest testimonials flooding social media. Each piece of content was strategically crafted to highlight Libertex’s association with luxury, innovation, and the thrill of Formula 1, reinforcing its brand image.
Credit:
Tom
Claeren
nance’s much-coveted ‘Global CFD Broker of the Year 2024’ award.
LIBERTEX, A FINANCIAL FIRM WITH GREAT SPORTSMANSHIP
In addition to providing award-winning financial services, Libertex also shines as a long-lasting partner of numerous
football teams, as it has previously partnered with renowned teams such as Tottenham Hotspur, Getafe CF and Valencia CF. Libertex is currently the Official Online Trading Partner of German titans FC Bayern.
The company’s unwavering commitment to client satisfaction and safety is further
reflected by its strict compliance policies and multiple regulations by which it is governed across various jurisdictions.
With an enviable track record of award wins and sponsorships as well as solid regulation, Libertex remains, without a doubt, one of the brokers to follow for many years to come.
Arriving for the Ultimate F1 Superyacht party in style: Tom Claeren and the Libertex branded Bugatti Chiron aboard the Seven Sins
The Libertex-branded Bugatti Chiron just as the Ultimate F1 Superyacht party was about to get started.
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
MONACO RESIDENTS’ SECOND HOME Step into
Discover the Principality’s unique activities, build enriching friendships and share unforgettable moments with CREM.
Résidence le Mirabeau
1, avenue Princesse Grace - 98000 Monaco
T. +377 97 98 01 77 | info@crem.mc | @crem_monaco
www.crem.mc
ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER BEAUTY BY WORLD CLASS MONACO
Summer is a time for fun, sun, and relaxation, but the heat can also be a challenge when it comes to maintaining your fitness and beauty routines. At World Class Gym and Beauty Spa, we asked our beauty and sports experts to provide you with five essential ways to stay in shape, achieve a glowing body and enjoy your vacation to the full.
REGULAR EXERCISE
Staying active during the summer is crucial for maintaining a healthy body and mind. Whether you prefer group classes or individual workouts, our expert coaches at World Class Gym are here to guide you. Exercising regularly helps reduce stress levels and boosts your mood. You can start your day with a relaxing yoga class or boost your energy with an energising cycling class. Regular workouts not only maintain your perfect summer body but also help release all the toxins.
DETOX
After a good workout, or even on a rest day, visiting the relaxation zone at World Class can do wonders for your body and soul. Our sauna and hammam are excellent for releasing toxins and alleviating stress. These treatments boost your metabolism and rejuvenate your skin, leaving it looking vibrant and refreshed.
LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE TREATMENTS
Combat the summer heat and avoid feeling bloated by visiting Beauty Spa by World Class Monaco. Our lymphatic drainage treatments, including manual massages with essential oils and Pressotherapy sessions, help drain toxins from your body. These treatments are perfect after a day at the beach or after a flight, offering immediate results that leave you feeling lighter and rejuvenated.
HAIR RECOVERY AND PROTECTION
The sun and sea can damage your hair, causing dryness and breakage. At Beauty Spa, our professional hair-
dressers offer intensive Lebel hair treatments to restore any damage and add a protective layer to your hair before further sun exposure. These treatments ensure your hair remains healthy and vibrant all summer long.
EFFORTLESS MANICURES & PEDICURES
Maintaining flawless nails during your summer holidays is easy with a visit to Beauty Spa. Our specialists provide long-lasting manicures and pedicures with vibrant summer colours or elegant nude shades. With our professional care, you can enjoy your holidays without worrying about your nails, ensuring they look flawless with your tan throughout your holidays.
With the expertise of our fitness and beauty experts, surviving the summer heat while staying true to your fitness and beauty routines is easy. Join us at World Class Gym and Beauty Spa to ensure an extraordinary summer, looking and feeling refreshed without any stress. Don't let the heat stop you from enjoying your holidays!
Model: Polina Erofeeva
The summer and autumn period in Monaco with no surprise is very rich. The Principality expects to receive numerous events both for its residents and guests. The middle of summer and the beginning of autumn is probably the most anticipated time of the year, because even the weekdays are filled with exciting and interesting business and leisure events day after day. Nevertheless, autumn is not less attractive for guests and residents of Monaco, where the Monaco Yacht Show, the Ladies Rally of Vintage Cars and Sportel will be held, just to name a few. HelloMonaco has prepared for you a selection of key events for the upcoming period.
Monaco Energy Boat Challenge
The Monaco Energy Boat Challenge, organised by the Yacht Club de Monaco will take place from July 1 to 6. Organised since 2014 by the Yacht Club de Monaco, in collaboration with the International Powerboating Federation (UIM) and Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge is unique in the world. On July 6th, 2024, a prize of €25,000 will be awarded to the winner who unveils the best technological solution for yachting regarding energy efficiency and carbon reduction. The primary objective of this grant is to encourage universities to contribute groundbreaking innovations that align with the principles of sustainability, environmentally responsible technologies, emission reduction and energy efficiency applicable to the
1–6 July
https://energyboatchallenge.com
yachting sector. YCM is reviving a tradition by leaving the field wide open to innovation and the imaginations of young engineers, working hand in hand with experienced manufacturers.
https://energyboatchallenge.com/en/home-english/
Monaco Art Week 2–7 July
Monaco Art Week, under the High Patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco, celebrates its 6th edition from the 2nd until 7th July this year. Galleries and auction houses gather for the occasion around exhibitions and cultural events, offering a varied programme of modern art, contemporary art, and high jewellery creations. Monaco Art Week 2024 will present a circuit of 18 exhibitions in different parts of the Principality organized by the joint efforts of galleries, auction houses and simply by art lovers. Other events will be also on the programme. Christie’s conference in Saint-Paul de Vence, the Pavillon Bosio will be presenting its new collection of books on scenography, while the Nouveau Musée National de Monaco will be hosting a meeting with architect Guillaume Aubry, just to name a few.
https://www.monaco-artweek.com/
Monte-Carlo Summer Festival
6 July – 16 August
Nartmonte-carlo
6–7 July
The 8th edition of artmonte-carlo’s 2024 edition will take place from the 6th to the 7th of July at the Grimaldi Forum Monaco. This year, artmonte-carlo will present as usual a very exclusive and original format with a selection of prestigious contemporary galleries. The event will bring together 27 Monegasque and international modern and contemporary art galleries. artmontecarlo is a leading artistic platform for contemporary art, modern art and design.
www.artmontecarlo.ch
umerous enchanting concerts will cheer up the Principality, and such masters of the hall as Trevor Noah, Sam Smith and Diana Krall will entertain you from first sight. Jamiroquai will be honoured at the Monaco Red Cross Gala. They will be performing at the Monaco Red Cross Gala for the first time on 19 July at the Salle des Étoiles. Duran Duran will make their grand return along with other famous artists that are expected in Monaco. Just to give a few names, Myriam Farès, Il Volo, and Lenny Kravitz are expected among others. The new Stars 80 tour, called Encore, is coming to the Salle des Étoiles on 6 July. The phenomenon will be bringing Sabrina, Emile & Images, Patrick Hernandez, Jean-Pierre Mader, William from Début de Soirée, Christiane from Zouk Machine and Joniece Jamison, Phil Barney and Vivien Savage to the stage for an exceptional show. The artists will be paying tribute to legendary hits by 80s icons. The evening will be in support of the Fight Aids Monaco association, which is celebrating its twentieth anniversary this year.
The Grimaldi Forum unveiled this year its big summer exhibition, taking place in collaboration with the Tate, from Saturday 6 July until Sunday 1 September 2024. “Turner, the Sublime Legacy” will be putting the renowned English Romantic painter in dialogue with contemporary artists. Joseph Mallord William Turner’s pioneering landscapes and explorations of light is quickly becoming one of Monaco’s most-anticipated summer events. The 80 or so pieces were assembled under the direction of Elizabeth Brooke, curator and project leader at the Tate and were displayed in 2021 at the National Museum of Fine Arts of Quebec. The exhibition will open with some of Turner’s first works, created in the heart of English landscape.
https://www.grimaldiforum.com/
Manolo Valdés. Infanta Margarita. Opera Gallery
Luchita Hurtado.Untitled. Hauser & Wirth
Joseph Mallord William Turner. The Grand Canal, Venice, with Santa Maria della Salute and the Palazzo Corner della Cà Grande, 1840 Pencil and watercolour on white wove paper. Tate
Monaco Wanda Diamond League, the Herculis EBS 2024 meeting will take place on July 12. Fans can buy their tickets and rediscover the world athletic elite at Stade Louis II. The program for the 2024 meeting is already rich, and it’s clear that the middle-distance events will be closely watched once again this year! We can expect some additional events and numerous types of entertainment to be added as every year.
In 2023, Faith Kipyegon broke the women’s mile world record in Monaco.
The Monaco Red Cross Ball
19 July
The Red Cross Ball will be the undeniable peak of the summer season in Monaco. One of the most influential charity gala evenings in the world unites the international elite, cultural personalities and superstars, in the prestigious Salle des Étoiles, Monte-Carlo Sporting. The solemn opening of the event from year to year is traditionally given by the Princely couple.
Traditionally, the event also includes a superstar. This year Jamiroquai will be honoured at the 75th Monaco Red Cross Gala.
https://www.croix-rouge.mc/en/
Final stage of the Tour de France 2024
21 July
The Olympic Games in 2024 are going to swamp Paris so the organizers of the 2024 Tour have wisely designed an optimum route which will showcase the Principality and its Riviera neighbours. After starting out this Tour de France from Italy the riders will cross borders for a handful of kilometres, this time for a short visit to Monaco. But it is the finish of the 2024 Tour de France where the eyes of Monegasques, all Europe, France and Italy especially, but of the whole world will be on Monaco. And it is historic. The culminating excitement for the 21st and last stage, a 32 km challenging time trial which will leave from Monaco and will join Nice.
On July 26–28, under the High Patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II, the Grimaldi Forum is hosting The MONACO MEDITERRANÉE. The event is honouring the specialties of the Mediterranean basin countries, including Monaco, Italy, France, Lebanon, Tunisia, Greece and Morocco. Its mission is introducing the public to a number of craftsmen, artists, creators, producers and manufacturers, sharing the Mediterranean culture through its gastronomy, crafts, art and fashion. Each country is constantly developing products with character, resulting from unique knowhow, with exhibitors passionately defending them.
FORGE DECHEZELLE craftsmen famously create different types of items out of exceptional materials; historic steel from the Louis XIV powder mill, ivory and mammoth molar, 5000 year old or 15th century oak wood, semi-precious stones (lapis lazuli...), and “Le Joyau d’Olive” is the first soap made out of 4 natural ingredients only. This lebanese hand-made and 100% natural soap is produced using ancestral techniques.
MY CROWN is making its comeback for the third time in a row. This concept born during the pandemic is founded by creative entrepreneur Sophia Vaharis Tsouvelekakis. An effort to transform old, hand-me-down clothing (shirts, skirts,
scarves) into pillows or napkins has evolved into a business focused on stylish, unique, handcrafted, personalized accessories for home and yachts.
Artist Andrew Vianello will be presenting his extraordinary blend of design, figurative art and photography. Founded in 2015, “PROFILO” famously creates bespoke sculptural and decorative items. Its mission is capturing the profile of our loved ones, reinterpreted in an iconic and personal object. Stopping time, it is immoritalizing a memory or a special moment.
Made in Tunisia by Jordanian craftsmen, “ARTISANAT BY S”is a 100% hand-made and authentic production. Its founder Sihem is of Tunisian origin with Jordanian nationality. Harmonizing the two identities, he is supporting Tunisian industry and encouraging the economic empowerment of Jordanian women.
“HALLAB” is honouring Lebanese gastronomy. Since 1881, from the very heart of the ancestral city of Tripoli, Abdul Rahman Hallab is synonymous with the original taste and traditional flavour associated with premium oriental sweets. An exquisite, rich and unbeatably delectable artisanal assortment of the freshest ingredients, where premium quality is savoured in every item, “Kasr el Helou” is proudly setting a benchmark in the field. And many other exhibitors and craftsmen are ready to showcase their know-how.
https://monacomediterranee.com/
The 2024 Summer Olympics
26 July – 11 August
The Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be the biggest event ever organized in France. Taking place from 26 July to 11 August 2024, the multicultural spectacle will see Paris’s iconic landmarks transformed into sporting arenas. At the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris this year, Monaco will be presented by at least three athletes in different disciplines: swimming, table tennis, and rowing. Quentin Antognelli, Lisa Pou and Xiaoxin Yang are the three athletes that will fight under the colours of the Monegasque flag. It will be the Principality’s twenty-second appearance at the Summer Olympics. The Prince of Monaco Albert II in the past has also taken part in five Olympic Games between 1988 and 2002 as a member of the Monaco Bobsleigh team.
www.olympics.com
Xiaoxin Yang was a flag bearer at Tokyo Olympic Games Opening Ceremony in 2021.
AlUla: A Tapestry of Creativity
3 August – 3 September
The exhibition «AlUla: A Tapestry of Creativity» presented by Arts AlUla is coming to Larvotto promenade in Monaco from August 3rd to September 3rd! Discover the beauty of AlUla, a historic Saudi Arabian region known for its rich heritage and stunning landscapes, now re-emerging as a global arts hub. Curated by Basma Harasani, the exhibition presents a diverse group of talented artists who each bring their unique perspective to the captivating landscapes and heritage of AlUla.
Featuring works by participating artists: Moath Alofi, Huda Beydoun, Catherine Gfeller, M’hammed Kilito, Hayat Osamah and Prince Michel de Yougoslavie. These artists have captured the essence of AlUla through their lenses, showcasing the region’s beauty, culture, and history in a variety of creative ways. From desert vistas to historical buildings, their photographs tell stories that resonate with the rich tapestry of AlUla.
Step into the rich beauty of this gorgeous oasis where tradition, culture, and modernity converge harmoniously at the Larvotto promenade in Monaco. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of AlUla through the eyes of these talented artists. See you there!
AlUla: A Tapestry of Creativity
Contemporary Photography from AlUla, Saudi Arabia
Du 3 AOÛT au 3 SEPTEMBRE
Promenade du Larvotto
PRINCIPAUTÉ DE MONACO
11th Ladies Rally of Vintage Cars
15 September
This is a charity event organized by Child CARE Monaco to raise funds for underprivileged children in India, to give them the possibility to go to school. This year the dress code theme is year ROCKABILLY — Retro glam. Ladies meet for breakfast and for the distribution and discovery of the road book governing the route of the Rally. During that glamorous day, there will be around 20 different nationalities present to share a nice moment and to meet new people as well as to support a great cause. The Ladies Vintage Cars Rally starts in Monaco and ends in Monaco. This Ladies rally event is to raise funds for the girls school and projects in India.
For the 11th edition Rally participants can either bring their own car or arrange for it to be organised for them.
Child CARE Monaco (Charity Association for the Right to Education) was founded in February 2012. Its founder and current president is Martine Ackermann.
Monaco Business 2024 which will be held on September 19, is the trade fair devoted to businesses. The Principality’s B2B event brings together Monegasque entrepreneurs to enable them to exchange ideas, while presenting visitors with Monaco’s economic specificities. For one day, this meeting analyzes the current challenges in the field of economics, and gives the means to businessmen to increase their success.
http://monacobusinessexpo.com
25–28 September
Monaco Yacht Show
In September, the yachting industry turns its focus exclusively on the Monaco Yacht Show where forty or so new launches are annually unveiled in a worldwide debut. Hundreds of exhibiting companies and partners participate in the growing success of the MYS. Monaco provides the ultimate showcase for industry influencers from the most reputable superyacht builders, award winning yacht designers, luxury suppliers, influential brokerage houses to the most sought-after water toys, prestige cars, helicopter and private jet manufacturers. From 25 to 28 of September, more exclusive superyachts built by the world’s largest shipyards will be exhibited in Port Hercule.
https://monacoyachtshow.com/en/
The Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses
The Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses celebrates its 10th anniversary on September 27th in Monaco, with a journey through fairytale, magical highlights and royalty! Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo transformed into an enchanted garden will become the royal ballroom of a great musical celebration, combining high culture and entertainment.
Organized under the High Patronage of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco and in honour of Grace Kelly, the Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses will reveal its beauty and magic in a striking atmosphere, accompanied by sumptuous banquets and splendid performances. Distinguished guests, celebrities and all nobles at heart are invited to combine romance and royalty during the return of this evening, the most anticipated out-and-out highlight of the Monaco season. An occasion destined to capture the attention of prestigious A-list guests, along with the high-class gentry and nobility from around the world. It’s a fascination that will not be forgotten for a long time, an uplifting experience that makes guests feel like royalty.
The universal magic of this Gala evening will encourage participants to immerse themselves in the wonders before their eyes, celebrating the sumptuous life resonating perfectly with the magnificent atmosphere for which Monte-Carlo is famous. The
evening’s prestigious guests will swirl with their partners while the majestic atmosphere creates a fantastically princely aura. An exceptional great ball placed under the theme of celebrating the riches, aristocratic lifestyle and royal traditions from around the world. Guests are invited to rediscover the refined artistic timeless atmosphere of the evenings organized by Louis XIV, for one incredibly surreal moment.
Since 2014, the opera singer and UNICEF ambassador Delia Grace Noble is the artistic director of this unmissable happening that has been a representative of Monaco’s cultural legacy, elegance, and glamour in Monte-Carlo. The conceptualization and composition of the forthcoming event are at the peak with each and every element of the occasion adorned in the gleam and radiance of ideal regality. The Ball operates as a cultural platform and builds bridges to connect people of varying heritages, continents and generations, to add traditional glamour and elegance to Monaco, the heaven of luxury on the French Riviera!
Ceremonial military uniforms, tailcoats or tuxedos for gentlemen and prestigious grand ball dresses, with tiaras for ladies is the dress code for an evening not to be missed under any circumstances. After midnight, the Ball will transform itself to the rhythm of current music, for an unforgettable after party, which will be the unique opportunity to discover
27 September
Hôtel de Paris like never before. Since the first edition, the Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses has been renewed every year, to celebrate the fanciful and refined social events of the Belle Epoque, for a unique legendary affair, that has become unmissable.
High-profile guests are invited in the heart of Monaco to embrace the union of romance and royalty on this imaginative occasion. They are welcomed at the event of the year, to immerse themselves in the wonders laid out before their eyes and celebrate a lavish living!
www.noblemontecarlo.mc
LUXE PACK MONACO
30 September – 2 October
Following the parade of luxury yachts, the Principality of Monaco is welcoming the key players from the packaging industry, specializing in original and high quality packaging. In October, the Grimaldi Forum will thus become an international venue bringing together creative and innovative packaging solutions called LUXE PACK MONACO. As always well-qualified delegates will present their prospective partners
SPORTEL Awards
https://www.sportelawards.com
https://www.sportelawards.com/en
Monaco National Day
Monaco National Day is traditionally celebrated on November 19 and is the principal day of the year for the residents of the Principality to demonstrate their commitment to the state and the Prince. In addition, it is the day of the commemoration of the independence of the Principality, a holiday that was celebrated for the first time on May 16, 1734 under Prince Honoré III. A little more than a century later, Prince Charles III changed the date of the celebration to 4th November. However, the current Prince of Monaco Albert II decided to make this day also a Memorial Day to his father Rainier III and postponed the date to the 19th of November. You have an important opportunity to demonstrate your loyalty to the Principality of Monaco on this special day!
www.luxepackmonaco.com/
with numerous packaging development projects, all in a positive working atmosphere and with numerous conferences and workshops. This annual event offers industry professionals a selection of exhibitions, conferences and workshops focused on the latest packaging trends. The event is open to professionals only.
https://www.luxepackmonaco.com/
SPORTEL Awards is meeting you this year from October 27 to 29 and will once again offer you a program of public events rich in screenings, meetings, exclusive conferences, always in the presence of numerous champions. The SPORTEL Awards ceremony will close these 3 days of festivities and will honour the most beautiful images from the world of sport this year.
SPORTEL Awards is also an opportunity for sports fans to experience unique moments with renowned elite sporting champions. The colourful flame on the poster of the event this year bursting behind the athletes recalls the atmosphere dominating this year 2024 with the Paris Olympics. Created in 1990 on the initiative of Georges Bertellotti, Monegasque journalist and passionate sportsman, and placed under the High Patronage) of HSH Prince Albert II, SPORTEL Awards is an international competition which rewards the best sporting sequences but also exclusive meetings between sports fans and renowned sports personalities.
19 November
Photo Valentin Bréton
Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène at the 2023 Monaco National Day
Frederic BIANCO Vice President | Wealth Manager CMB bank Monaco
Katya Taran, Tom Claeren and Olga Taran
Christina and Marco Molinario, founder of Molinario jewelry
Corrine Junod and Franck Junod, AAACS Centre d’Affaires, Conseils & Services
Philippe BENZIMRA, General Manager at Bank J. Safra Sarasin LTD
Deniza Marchinkeviciute Paula Marchinkeviciute,Dworld
Ariane Degoumois
Judith Senty, RC Monaco Jets
Donatella Nonni — The founder of FlyMeToTuscany
Diane Nonni — Donatella’s daughter, Helena Litvak- Hello Monaco
Cosette Cutrara and Andrea Pepè ( Chili #5)
Olga Taran, Katya Taran Gary Gueye and Lorenzo Turco ( both from Barclays Bank)
Matt Palmer, Heather Small, Lee Goldsmith, Katya Taran, Olga Taran
Kelly Mobey Leclercq, Angelina Riffeser, Angelina Lundqvist, Katya Taran
Charles Gillespie and Gary Gueye
Snejana Barteneva and Katya Taran
Jennifer Blum and Tom Balco
Tom Claeren- founder at TOM CLAEREN
Snejana Barteneva and Zaryna Delebarre
Elena Malinina Co- founder of Retro Style association and Helena Litvak (Hello Monaco)
Katya Taran and Robert Borne
Katya Taran and Matt Palmer ( Northrop & Johnson)
Paul Grosgogeat ( Tiffany & Co Monaco ), Diana Steinmetz( Tiffany & co ), Zhanna Steinmetz ( Graff Monaco) , Sarah Beaumont ( Tiffany & co)
Rumble Romagnoli is the founder and President of Relevance, a strategic and creative digital agency
Katya Taran
Andrea Pepè (chef Chilli No. 5)
Igor Trautmann, Lawyer & Real Estate Expert ,exclusive collaboration with Waldhof Real Estate
Sky Sport TV on board of Seven Sins
Tom Claeren is giving the interview to DAZN - The ultimate sports entertainment platform
Olga Taran, founder, editor of Hello Monaco, and Marios Chailis, marketing director of Libertex
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
Deborah Bianco (SBM), Frederic Bianco (CMB BANK) and Olga Taran
Jungle F1 party at Seven Sins
Loading «The Thinker» sculpture on board of Seven Sins
Hello Monaco team
Véronique Alexandre (Pretty You and Yours Monaco), Olga Taran, Takae Tsuzuki
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
Hello Monaco team
DJ RAMPA performance
Olga Taran and Matthieu Guillaume (SAFRA BANK MONACO)
Katya Taran and Celina Rotter
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
Véronigue Alexandre, Olga Taran, Emilia Jedamska, Irena Kazimirskaya, Helena Litvak with guests
Lucie Mendes (Graff), Zhanna Steinmetz (Graff) and Olga Taran
Jungle F1 party at Seven Sins
Katya Taran and the artist Nicolas Hunt
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
Credit: Tom Claeren
19 Galerie Charles III Avenue de la Madone In the Golden Square
