The Principality of Monaco geared up this year for a unique cultural celebration that intertwines history, heritage, and art. And this September, the tiny Mediterranean state will mark the 40th anniversary of the Princess Grace Irish Library with the release of a special commemorative stamp, a fitting tribute to the cultural institution that has become one of Monaco’s cherished gems.
A Tribute in PhilatelySet to be released on September 4th, this limited-edition stamp honours the legacy of Princess Grace of Monaco, known for her deep ties to Ireland through her paternal ancestry. The stamp, priced at 1.96 euros, will be available in several locations including the Museum of Stamps and Coins and post offices across the Principality, as well as the Carré d’Encre in Paris. A limited print run of 40,000 copies ensures that this stamp will be a prized possession for collectors and admirers of Princess Grace alike.
The Library’s Legacy
The Princess Grace Irish Library, inaugurated on November 20, 1984, by Prince Rainier III, was created in memory of his late wife and her affection for Irish culture. Nestled in the heart of Monaco, the library has grown into a beacon of Irish literature, music, and culture, housing a rich collection of books, musical scores, and reference materials that celebrate the spirit of Ireland.
This year’s commemorative activities are not just about remembering Princess Grace but also about celebrating the lasting connections between Monaco, Ireland, and the United States—three countries that were dear to her. Through a series of curated events, the library has been focusing and continues to focus on a theme that reflects the triangular bond shared by these nations.
Cultural Events and Celebrations
The 40th anniversary celebrations featured an exciting cultural program, ranging from musical performances to scholarly lectures. Students from Monaco’s Rainier III Academy have performed musical pieces from Princess Grace’s personal collection, symbolizing the harmonious relationship between Monaco and Ireland. The library also hosted a variety of events earlier this year, such as a lecture by Patrick O’Sullivan Greene titled “Revolution to Royalty – the Making of an Irish-American Princess,” and a multimedia presentation by Neal Doherty exploring County Mayo, where Princess Grace’s ancestors originated.
Flor MacCarthy, a distinguished Irish author and journalist, had earlier been awarded the Ireland Funds Monaco Fellowship for 2024. MacCarthy, known for her bestseller “The Presidents’ Letters: An Unexpected History of Ireland,” has explored the ties between the Irish presidents and the Sovereign Prince Albert II of Monaco. Her work further reinforces the library’s mission to serve as a hub for research, writing, and cultural exchange.
A Continued Legacy
These commemorations serve as a poignant reminder of Prince Rainier’s efforts to promote Irish culture as a tribute to his beloved wife. The Princess Grace Irish Library stands today not just as a repository of books but as a living testament to Princess Grace’s enduring passion for her Irish roots and her commitment to cultural exchange.
This 40th anniversary, marked by the new commemorative stamp and a vibrant calendar of events, reaffirms the library’s place as a cultural bridge that spans continents and generations, celebrating the rich heritage that Princess Grace so dearly cherished.
