Summary:
The celebrations for Sainte Dévote, the patron saint of Monaco, will take place on January 26 and 27, 2025, featuring various events such as a mass, procession, and a drone show.
Full Story:
Monaco will celebrate the Sainte Dévote, the Patron Saint of Monaco, on Sunday, January 26th, and Monday, January 27th, 2025. The celebrations are based on the legend of Sainte Dévote, a young Christian girl from Corsica who was martyred in the 4th century. According to the legend, her body was stolen and placed in a boat, but it was caught in a storm. Guided by a dove, the boat eventually arrived in Monaco, where it was buried. Since the 17th century, Sainte Dévote has been the Patron Saint of Monaco.
The annual tradition involves burning a boat on a bonfire in the presence of the Prince of Monaco, the princely family, and other dignitaries. This year, the public is invited to watch the festivities live on big screens set up in two secure areas from 5:30 pm. The schedule of events includes a traditional mass in the Monégasque language at the Sainte-Dévote Church at 10:30 am on Sunday, January 26th. In the evening, there will be a procession of Sainte Dévote’s relics, followed by the burning of the boat and an 8-minute drone show depicting significant moments from her life.
On Monday, January 27th, there will be a Pontifical Mass at 10 am at the Monaco Cathedral, presided over by Paul-Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States. The princely family, the government, elected officials, and many faithful followers will attend the mass. Afterward, a procession will take the relics to the Prince’s Palace, led by the Penitents of the Confraternity of Mercy and escorted by the Prince’s Carabiniers. The celebrations will conclude with a candlelit spiritual concert titled “Mozart in Monaco” by the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra at 6:30 pm.
Source:
Monaco Tribune
