An unprecedented exhibition exploring links between the Principality and the Napoleons is coming to the Grimaldi Forum this summer. “Monaco and the Napoleons: Intertwined Destinies,” will be on display from July 11 to August 31, 2025.
Held under the High Patronage of HSH Prince Albert II, the event will unveil deep and unique ties between the Principality and the First and Second Napoleonic Empires for the very first time. Louis Ducruet, who is actively involved in promoting Monegasque historical heritage, will serve as the exhibition’s ambassador.
Curated with the Prince’s Palace and the Napoleon Foundation
Through a precious selection of artworks, documents, and objects, visitors will be invited to explore the many facets of little-known historical relationship, thanks to rigorous research by three curators. Thomas Fouilleron and Thomas Blanchy—Director and Deputy Director of the Archives and Library of the Prince’s Palace—alongside Pierre Branda, Scientific Director of the Fondation Napoléon will offer a “fresh and well-documented perspective on some of the most pivotal periods in European and Monegasque history,” says a recent press release by the exhibition.
Pieces from a Private Collection
Stories of when Emperors Napoleon I and Napoleon III, as well as Empresses Joséphine and Eugénie crossed paths with the Grimaldi dynasty will be unveiled. A major highlight of the exhibition will be exceptional contributions from the private collection of David and Mikhail Iakobachvili. Father and son, these two passionate collectors of have assembled an impressive collection of nearly 25,000 pieces spanning from the 16th to the 20th centuries. Among them are precious Napoleonic artifacts that will be showcased at the Grimaldi Forum as part of this major event. The exhibition was born at the crossroads of David and Mikhail’s passion, their deep connection to Monaco and their strong interest in French culture.
