Today in Monegasque History

Today in 1731 HSH Prince Jacques I became Sovereign Prince of Monaco upon the death of his wife Princess Louise-Hippolyte, ushering in the reign of the Mantignon branch of the family.

And it was on this day in 1983 that HSH Princess Caroline of Monaco married her soulmate Stefano Casiraghi at the Princely Palace, starting off what would probably be the happiest years of her life.

A Sad Day in Recent History

It was on this day in 1990 that Stefano Casiraghi died. Princess Caroline has often said that he was her real 'one and only'. Our thoughts go out to the Princess and the Casiraghi Trio on this sad anniversary.

Two Events in Grimaldi History

It was on this day in 1731 that HSH Princess Louise-Hippolyte passed away, leaving the throne of Monaco to her husband HSH Prince Jacques I, begining the Mantignon line of the Grimaldi family. However, Monaco was never a good fit for the prince and he soon abdicated in favor of his young son HSH Prince Honore III. He then retired to his more familiar haunts of Paris and Versailles. His former home is now the residence of the French prime minister.

It was also on this day in 1983 that HSH Princess Caroline of Monaco married Italian businessman Stefano Casiraghi. Although their marriage would be cut short by tragedy their years together were thankfully happy ones and Princess Caroline has stated more than once that Stefano was her true 'one and only'. Stefano died in 1990 while boat racing but he gave the Princess three wonderful children; Andrea, Pierre and Charlotte.

It Happened Yesterday

It was yesterday in 1990 that Stefano Casiraghi, husband of Princess Caroline, was killed in a boat racing accident off the coast of Monaco while defending his title as world offshore powerboat champion. Princess Caroline was devestated and went into deep mourning for a long time afterward. She became noticably more religious and would often go to Church during the day just to visit the resting place of her beloved husband. In the following years she always said that Stefano was her one true love and, in light of recent events, it is probably safe to say she was never happier than when she was with him. Their marriage had been quick but it took a great deal of time and a good deal of lobbying by her father to normalize things with the Church and it was to come to a tragic end all too soon. However, Stefano Casiraghi, as well as leaving a lasting mark on Princess Caroline, also left behind a striking legacy in the persons of his children; Andrea, Pierre and Charlotte. Undoubtedly he is still greatly missed.