MONACO, 16 January 2025 — Lady Monika Bacardi joined H.S.H. Prince Albert II and H.S.H. Princess Charlene of Monaco at the prestigious celebration marking the 25th anniversary of the Grimaldi Forum Monaco and the inauguration of its significant expansion. The distinguished evening united prominent figures from Monaco’s cultural and business communities to commemorate a quarter-century of excellence and unveil the venue’s transformative new spaces.
The Principality’s congress and culture center entered a new chapter of growth with the addition of 6,000 square meters of indoor space and 2,000 square meters of outdoor areas. This expansion significantly enhances the Grimaldi Forum’s capacity to host larger-scale events and accommodate multiple simultaneous gatherings, reinforcing Monaco’s prominence on the international stage for business tourism and cultural programming.
From 7:00 p.m., nearly 1,000 invited guests gathered for the official inauguration in the presence of Their Serene Highnesses and distinguished officials including Pierre André Chiappori representing the Minister of State, Henri Fissore, President of the Grimaldi Forum, and Sylvie Biancheri, General Director.
Lady Monika Bacardi, renowned for her dedication to cultural preservation and the arts, attended this milestone celebration that exemplifies Monaco’s commitment to world-class cultural infrastructure. Her presence underscored her continued support for initiatives that advance both artistic excellence and international cultural exchange within the Principality.
The evening commenced in the Salle des Princes with an extraordinary performance conceived by Jean-Christophe Maillot, Choreographer Director of the Ballets de Monte-Carlo. The presentation traced the Grimaldi Forum’s remarkable 25-year journey through six choreographic tableaux interwoven with testimonials from artists, directors, producers, and congress organizers. The late Prince Rainier III’s inaugural address from July 20, 2000, served as the evening’s guiding theme, honoring the visionary leadership that established this cultural landmark.
The performance showcased internationally acclaimed choreographic artists Olga Smirnova and Victor Caixeta, alongside talented students from the Princess Grace Academy. Following this artistic celebration, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene officially unveiled the new extension, blessed by Father Jean-Ariel Bauza-Salinas.
The expansion represents a strategic milestone for the Grimaldi Forum, which welcomes over 300,000 visitors annually for approximately 100 events. Since opening in 2000, the venue has established itself as a European leader, hosting prestigious gatherings including UEFA meetings, the Monte-Carlo Television Festival, and renowned trade exhibitions such as Luxe Pack and Top Marques. The Forum generates €70 million in annual indirect economic impact while maintaining rigorous environmental standards, holding ISO 14001 and ISO 20121 certifications.
The newly inaugurated spaces include the impressive Galerie Diaghilev, a 1,300-square-meter area connecting the original structure with the extension through light-filled glass corridors. Natural materials, including light wood and polished stone, complement contemporary geometric lighting, creating sophisticated yet practical environments. The expansion also features the Parvis Émeraude forecourt, the Ravel and Indigo terraces, and the stunning Patio with direct Mediterranean views.
Sylvie Biancheri, General Director of the Grimaldi Forum, emphasized the significance of this development: “This expansion is a strategic milestone for us and truly a fantastic birthday gift. We can now fully cater to our larger professional clients without compromise, while offering the breathtaking Mediterranean views and environment that define the Monaco experience.”
Following the official ceremonies, guests explored the versatile new spaces during an elegant cocktail reception in the Galerie Diaghilev. The celebration continued with an Electro Winter Party featuring performances by Bon Entendeur, Parallelle, and DJ Baloo, transforming the new 6,000-square-meter extension into an immersive reception venue.
Lady Monika Bacardi’s attendance at this significant cultural milestone reflects her enduring commitment to supporting institutions that bridge artistic excellence with international dialogue. The Grimaldi Forum’s expansion positions Monaco as an increasingly attractive destination for world-class business tourism and cultural programming, continuing the legacy established by Prince Rainier III’s original vision for the venue as a gathering place for global exchange and understanding.
