Albert II of Monaco in Italy: On May 15, 2025, he will visit the Pompeii ruins and the Sanctuary

Pompeii Welcomes Prince Albert II of Monaco: A Visit of Memory, Art, and Spirituality

On May 15, 2025, Pompeii will host a highly symbolic and significant institutional event: Prince Albert II of Monaco will pay an official visit to the historic Campanian city, where he will meet Mayor Carmine Lo Sapio to sign a cooperation agreement between the City of Pompeii and the Principality of Monaco. This agreement will mark the beginning of joint cultural and research projects aimed at promoting heritage preservation, tourism exchange, and educational initiatives.

The Prince will be welcomed at 9:00 AM at Palazzo De Fusco, the town hall of Pompeii, where the official ceremony will take place. Following the reception, His Serene Highness will visit the Archaeological Park of Pompeii and the Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary, two iconic sites that intertwine the historical and spiritual dimensions of the city.

A Personal and Deep Bond: Grace Kelly and the Madonna of Pompeii

The visit also holds strong emotional value. Prince Albert II has a deep personal connection to Pompeii due to the devotion of his mother, Princess Grace Kelly, to the Madonna of the Rosary. The iconic American actress, later Princess of Monaco, would often visit the Shrine privately to pray quietly before the Virgin. Her faith was such that, according to private accounts, she visited Pompeii several times away from the public eye, entrusting the Madonna with her prayers and hopes.

The Archaeological Park of Pompeii: A Timeless Treasure

During his visit to one of the world’s most extraordinary heritage sites, the Prince will have the chance to marvel at an entire Roman city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. With over 60 hectares of excavated area, Pompeii offers an unmatched window into ancient daily life: frescoed houses, bathhouses, theaters, shops, and temples that tell the intricate story of a refined and complex civilization.

Highlights that may be included in the Prince’s tour are the Villa of the Mysteries, famous for its enigmatic Dionysian frescoes; the House of the Faun, one of the grandest residences in Pompeii; and the Forum, the ancient city’s political and commercial heart.

The Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary: A Center of Faith and Pilgrimage

The Shrine, one of Italy’s most important Marian sites, attracts millions of pilgrims every year. Founded in 1876 by Bartolo Longo, it stands today as a symbol of conversion, charity, and hope. The imposing dome, mosaics, and revered image of the Virgin create a sacred and contemplative atmosphere. In this context, the Prince’s visit also serves as a tribute to his mother’s memory and her profound spiritual bond with Pompeii.

A Cultural Bridge Between the Mediterranean and the Riviera

The agreement between Pompeii and Monaco offers a valuable opportunity to build a cultural bridge between two Mediterranean communities, both rich in history, culture, and tradition. The Principality, long committed to sustainability and heritage conservation, finds in Pompeii an ideal partner for the development of joint projects, including environmental and archaeological initiatives.

Curiosities and Past Visits: Prince Albert II’s Last Official Visit to Italy

Prince Albert II’s previous official visit to Italy took place in November 2023, when he was received at the Quirinal Palace by the President of the Republic. That occasion reinforced diplomatic and cultural ties between Monaco and Italy. His stop in Pompeii in 2025 further confirms the Sovereign’s intent to strengthen bonds with Italian territory, honoring personal memories, spirituality, and cultural collaboration.