Every year, on the eve of the Monegasque national holiday, Princess Caroline of Hanover is responsible for presenting the insignia of the Order of Cultural Merit to the lucky recipients who have contributed to the promotion of culture in the Principality. This November 18, 2024, Princess Caroline notably distinguished her daughter Charlotte Casiraghi. Princess Caroline’s children and step-children were all present at the ceremony.
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Charlotte Casiraghi distinguished knight of the Order of Cultural Merit in the presence of her siblings
A few hours before the start of the Monaco National Day celebrations, the members of the princely family get busy. Every year, on the eve of the national holiday, Princess Caroline of Hanover is responsible for presenting the insignia of the Order of Cultural Merit under the majestic chandeliers and under the arches of the Blue Room of the princely palace.
The Order of Merit is the third highest award in the Principality of Monaco. The order was created by sovereign order signed on December 31, 1952 by Prince Rainier III. The medal, including the monogram of Prince Rainier, hangs from a red ribbon tapered with white diamonds, incorporating elements of the Grimaldi coat of arms.
Princess Caroline, older sister of Prince Albert II, had the pleasure of recognizing her eldest daughter, Charlotte Casiraghi, 38, who received the rank of knight in the Order of Cultural Merit. Knight is the first of three ranks. Next comes the rank of officer and then that of commander.
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Princess Caroline of Hanover honors her daughter for her involvement in cultural life and the promotion of philosophy in the Principality
The Order of Cultural Merit aims to “distinguish and reward people who have participated through their works or their teaching in the development of the arts, letters and sciences in Monaco or who, even abroad, have contributed, in these fields, to the intellectual influence of the Principality” . To underline the prestige of the distinction, the ceremony is organized in the Pompeian-style living room, known as the Blue Room because of the numerous blue elements found there, including Delft dishes and vases from Sèvres, a French manufacturer.
Charlotte Casiraghi’s siblings were proudly present at her side. Andrea Casiraghi, eldest of the siblings, was accompanied by his wife, Tatiana Santo Domingo. Pierre Casiraghi, born a year later after his sister Charlotte, was also accompanied by his wife, Beatrice Borromeo. Finally, Princess Alexandra of Hanover, half-sister of the previous ones, was also present. Prince Albert II was also surprised to be present when a group photo was taken.
Charlotte Casiraghi has many strings to her bow. The head of state’s niece is an ambassador for Chanel. She is also an accomplished rider. Finally, she also pursues her passion for literature and poetry, by leading literary circles and organizing philosophical events in Monaco. The Prince’s Palace explains that Charlotte Casiraghi, 11th in the order of succession to the Monegasque throne, obtained this distinction in her capacity as president of the Monaco Philosophical Meetings. The Philosopher’s Meetings are seminars organized since 2015. Charlotte also promotes literature and philosophical thought during award ceremonies.
This distinction honors and rewards people who, through their works or their commitment, have contributed to the development of arts, letters and sciences in Monaco. She also salutes those who, even beyond the borders of the Principality, work to promote the intellectual influence of Monaco in these areas.
Nicolas Fontaine
Editor-in-chief
Nicolas Fontaine has been a designer-editor and author for numerous Belgian and French brands and media. A specialist in royal family news, Nicolas founded the site Histoires royales of which he is the editor-in-chief. [email protected]
