Once upon a time there was a princess who surrounded herself with mysteries… the departure of Charlene from Monaco for South Africa, and even before, to support the work of his foundation there last spring, the inhabitants of the principality were able to see the princess only a few minutes, on his return to Monaco. After six months away by health concerns, Prince Albert’s wife finally lands on Monegasque soilNovember 8, 2021.

Within the walls of the principality, as everywhere else, we then wonder about his long absence. And if many think that his arrival in France marks his return to duty, this is not the case. Shortly after his brief public appearance, Charlene is transported to a place out of sight, the time to complete his convalescence. This is how a year ago, on January 26, 2021, Charlene of Monaco made her last official appearance in the company of Prince Albert and their children, Jacques and Gabriellathe weather Sainte-Dévote celebrationsa few weeks before flying to South Africa.

⋙ Discover the men who mattered in the life of Charlene of Monaco.

The last official appearance of Charlene of Monaco

As tradition dictates, “the celebrations of Sainte-Dévote began from January 26 with the arrival of the relics and the burning of the Sainte-Dévote boat by Albert, Charlene, Jacques and Gabriella of Monaco”report then Royal stories. The next day, “Sovereign Prince Albert II and his wife, Princess Charlene, attended Mass in honor of Sainte-Dévote, patron saint of the Principality of Monaco”. An important event in the public life of the Monegasque royal familywhich took place in a small committee following the health crisis.

Even more special for Jacques and Gabriella, then 6 years old. Under the watchful eye of their motherthe twins had the right to help their father to embrace the Sainte-Dévote boat, using their own torch. This time without the usual festivities, like fireworks and rallies.

Jacques and Gabriella, the real stars of the day

For the occasion, moreover, Charlene of Monaco bet on a long tweed coat red and black signed by the Swiss brand Akris, before getting dressed deep blackwith the only colored detail, a raspberry beret, the next day. All embellished a large cross for a necklace. The prince himself had chosen a black suita white shirt and a red tie with light stripes. Bras on top, bras on bottomthe princely couple caused a sensation.

And as in each of their appearances, they are Jacques and Gabriella who attract attention. This time it was the 6-year-old who caused a stir, even stealing the show from her brother, by appearing in a pale pink set by Baby Diorconsisting of a skirt and a coat.

Photo credits: JC Vinaj / Pool Monaco / Bestimage