The story between Albert of Monaco and Charlène Wittstock begins like a true modern-day fairy tale. They met for the first time in 2000, at a swimming meet in Monaco. Charlène, a South African Olympic swimmer, was taking part.
What started as a chance encounter turned into a beautiful love story.
After several years of a discreet relationship, the couple made their engagement official in June 2010. The wedding was celebrated with great pomp on July 1 and 2, 2011, surrounded by prestigious guests.
The couple then welcomed twins, Prince Jacques Honoré Rainier and Princess Gabriella Thérèse Marie, on December 10, 2014.
A symbolic snapshot to mark the event
To celebrate their 13th wedding anniversary, corresponding to the lily of the valley wedding, the princely palace chose to share a recent and symbolic photo of the couple. The photo was taken last March during the celebrations of the 66th birthday of Prince Albert, who recently participated in the show “Petits plats en équilibre”. We see the couple on the balcony surrounded by their children.
The photo is accompanied by a simple message: “Happy wedding anniversary to Their Highnesses Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene.”
Difficult times overcome together
While today the couple seems more united than ever, their journey has not always been smooth sailing. Three years ago, Princess Charlene had to face serious health problems that forced her to stay in South Africa for several months, far from her family.
At the time, she confided her sadness at not being able to celebrate their wedding anniversary together: “This year will be the first time that I will not be with my husband for our anniversary in July, which is difficult and saddens me. However, Albert and I had no choice but to follow the instructions of the medical team even though it is extremely difficult.”
Since returning to Monaco, the couple seem to have made up for lost time.
