Today is Mother’s Day in Monaco, and the official tribute comes from Princess Charlene. The Prince’s Palace released a photo of the princess with her children, twins Jacques and Gabriella, accompanied by a simple, universal message: “Happy Mother’s Day to all moms,” published in both French and English. The warm family portrait was chosen to celebrate the occasion, which is observed in the Principality on the last Sunday of May.
The photo shows just how much the twins have grown. They bear little resemblance to the shy children who only occasionally appeared in official photographs. Jacques and Gabriella will turn 12 in December, and in recent months they have taken a significant step into public life. They have accompanied their parents to official events, including Pope Leo XIV’s recent visit to Monaco, as well as inaugurations and national celebrations such as Monaco’s National Day on November 21, where they attracted considerable attention. Their increasingly frequent appearances on the official calendar reflect their gradual introduction to public life in the Principality.
© AFP via Getty ImagesCharlene remains a devoted and protective mother, committed to supporting her children both in their daily lives and during public engagements. She continues to prioritize their well-being while preparing them for the legacy that will one day rest on their shoulders.
A Tribute That Comes at a Key Moment
The post carries additional significance, as it comes on the eve of Albert and Charlene of Monaco’s official visit to Spain—a trip of particular importance for the Grimaldi family. It will be the first time the princess has taken part in an official visit to Spain, fifteen years after her wedding. Until now, Prince Albert had always traveled there alone for sporting, cultural, or environmental engagements.
© Getty ImagesThe visit is part of the celebration marking 150 years of diplomatic relations between Spain and the Principality of Monaco, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the Prince Albert II Foundation’s presence in Spain.
Over the course of the two-day visit, the Monegasque royal couple will maintain a busy schedule. On Monday, June 1, Prince Albert is set to meet both the King of Spain and the Prime Minister. Later that afternoon comes one of the most anticipated moments of the trip: Charlene and Queen Letizia will appear together at Madrid’s Royal Botanical Garden to inaugurate an exhibition commemorating 150 years of diplomatic relations. They will also visit the Villanueva Pavilion, where two exhibitions organized by the Embassy of Monaco will be on display: Monaco and Spain: Five Centuries of Shared History and the 8th Monaco Artists Forum.
© SOPA Images/LightRocket via GettOn Tuesday, June 2, Prince Albert’s schedule will focus on activities connected to his foundation, including a visit to IE University, where he will deliver a speech on talent, innovation, and sustainability.
© WireImageMother’s Day Around the World: Different Dates, Different Traditions
Mother’s Day is not celebrated on the same date everywhere. Each country has chosen its own day based on religious traditions, historical customs, or national symbols. This patchwork of calendars explains why Monaco celebrates today, while in some countries the holiday took place weeks ago—or won’t arrive for several more months.
- United Kingdom — Celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent, a movable feast known as Mothering Sunday, tied to the liturgical calendar.
- Mexico — Always observed on May 10, regardless of the day of the week. It is one of the country’s most cherished celebrations.
- Thailand — Celebrated on August 12, the birthday of Queen Sirikit, who is regarded as the “Mother of the Nation.”
- France — Like Monaco, it is observed on the last Sunday of May, unless it coincides with Pentecost.
- Spain — Celebrated on the first Sunday of May since 1965, when the civil holiday was separated from the religious observance previously associated with December 8, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
Charlene’s bright and understated Mother’s Day message arrives at a particularly symbolic time for the family. As Monaco celebrates motherhood, the princess is preparing for a trip that could mark a turning point in her international role. The image with Jacques and Gabriella portrays not only a proud mother but also a princess entering a new phase of public service without losing sight of what matters most: her role as a mother and the place her children hold in Monaco’s public life.
Another Family Tribute: Marie Ducruet
Marie Ducruet, wife of Louis Ducruet—Prince Albert’s nephew—also joined the Mother’s Day celebrations by sharing an especially heartwarming photo of her two daughters. The picture shows Victoire, who turned three on April 4, and little Constance, who will celebrate her second birthday on December 4, riding horses together. Marie accompanied the image with a simple, affectionate caption: “My little loves,” expressing how completely her daughters have become the center of her world since their births and fulfilling her dream of becoming a mother alongside Louis.
© Getty ImagesMarie’s post adds a more intimate touch to a day when motherhood takes center stage within the Grimaldi family. While Charlene shared a more official family portrait with Jacques and Gabriella, Marie chose an everyday moment that highlights how the Principality’s next generation is growing up.
