The Changing of the Guard in Monaco

No, this is not the parade held in London in front of Buckingham Palace, nor the similar ceremony at Syntagma Square in Athens, in front of the Hellenic Parliament and the adjacent Monument to the Unknown Soldier.
Here we are in Monaco, where a similar Changing of the Guard takes place every day in front of the Grimaldi Princes’ Palace. It’s a captivating event that fascinates and amuses children and is admired and highly attractive for adults.

It is said that watching this ceremony is one of the must-do experiences when visiting the Principality. But be careful: the Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place every day at 11:55 a.m. on Palace Square, and it’s essential to be punctual—or even a bit early—to ensure a good view.

Since its establishment on December 8, 1817, the “Prince’s Carabiniers” have been charged with guarding the Palace and ensuring the safety of His Serene Highness the Sovereign Prince and the Princely Family, protecting the integrity of their properties and residences and their immediate surroundings, providing them with honor services, enforcing the laws, and helping maintain public order. Today, their ranks include 124 military personnel, composed of three officers, twenty-five non-commissioned officers, and ninety-six enlisted personnel. The Carabinieri’s motto is “Honor, Fidelity, Devotion.”

The Changing of the Guard is a solemn and military rite, where coordination and precision are mandatory, accompanied by the roll of drums and trumpet calls by the Carabinieri’s military band. On more solemn occasions, the entire band is present.

The ceremony lasts about 25 minutes, during which the soldiers on duty are relieved by fresh comrades. This involves the handover, salute, and the Carabinieri marching to their respective positions (sentry posts and inside the Palace). A bell rings to mark the end of the ceremony.

The winter uniform consists of a white shirt, a blue jacket with red cuffs, red or white cords, silver buttons, blue trousers with a red stripe, and white gaiters. They wear a colonial-style blue helmet with feathers added for formal occasions, as well as red epaulettes on their jackets. Decorated on their chests are the Principality’s honors and, if applicable, those of the French army, as many Carabinieri come from France. The summer uniform is white.

In essence, it is an exciting event that highlights the sovereignty of the Principality of Monaco and Their Serene Highnesses, adding a touch of military dignity and strength to a place known for many other aspects.