Updated on September 25, 2026
Key point
- This global media event, covered by some 2,000 journalists, was a landmark moment in the history of television.
- The commemorative trail spans several sites, from the State Apartments of the Prince's Palace to the Atrium of the Monte-Carlo Casino and the Monaco Audiovisual Institute.
On January 6, 1956, the sovereign and the Hollywood star announced their engagement in Philadelphia. Three months later, cameras from around the world turned toward the Principality to celebrate the wedding of Prince Rainier III and Grace Kelly, transforming the union into a global event.
A true logistical feat
Organizing this union was a tremendous challenge. As Thomas Fouilleron, Director of the Prince's Palace Archives, and Vincent Vatrican, Director of the Audiovisual Institute of Monaco the exhibition's curators point out, the Prince had to issue his instructions in writing from New York and Los Angeles, attending to every detail. For her part, Grace Kelly still had two studio films to complete.
Today, to revive the magic of the eight days of festivities held from April 12 to 19, 1956, the exhibition brings together numerous historical objects. Visitors can discover photographs, videos, jewelry, dresses and personal documents, some of which are on display for the very first time.
Princess Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier III in the Cour d'Honneur of the Prince's Palace on the occasion of their civil wedding. April 18, 1956.
© : Fausto Picedi - Palace of Monaco Archives - IAM.
When America and Monaco unite
The media frenzy was extraordinary, drawing nearly 2,000 journalists. Publications such as Paris Match mobilized massive resources to cover Grace Kelly’s voyage from New York aboard the ocean liner Constitution. Upon her arrival in Monaco, she was warmly welcomed by the elected representatives of the Monegasque people. The union also brought a contingent of Hollywood figures to the Rock, including the actress's friend Ava Gardner and Jack Warner.
Exhibition of the "Wedding of the Century" at the Atrium of the Monte Carlo Casino.
A strong cinematic dimension
The celebrations were highlighted by a grand gala at the Monte-Carlo Opera on April 18, 1956, followed the next day by the religious wedding ceremony at Monaco Cathedral. The ceremony drew inspiration from the 1920 royal wedding (between Princess Charlotte and Count Pierre de Polignac) while incorporating several innovations. For instance, the young Prince wished to include a drive through the city, allowing Princess Grace to lay a bouquet of flowers at the Church of Sainte-Dévote. This event marked a major milestone in the history of television, coming shortly after the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in England.
Civil wedding of Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier III in the Throne Room of the Prince's Palace of Monaco (April 18, 1956).
© : Cl. Detaille – Palace of Monaco Archives – IAM.
- The main exhibition, "Wedding of the Century: Monaco, April 12–19, 1956" is on display in the State Apartments of the Prince's Palace until September 25 is €13 for adults.
- The exhibition continues with free access in the Atrium of the Casino de Monte-Carlo until early September, as well as at the Audiovisual Institute of Monaco until the end of March 2027.
- A film-lecture event featuring the world premiere screening of the documentary Le Mariage de Monaco (directed by Jean Masson and restored in 4K) is being organized in the Cour d'Honneur of the Prince's Palace on July 20, followed by a screening at the Grimaldi Forum on October 16. The adult ticket price for the film-lecture is €20.
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