Sainte Dévote of Monaco

Faith, legend and a deeply rooted Monegasque tradition

Hidden between the harbour and the steep rock of Monaco, the Church of Sainte Dévote is one of the Principality’s most meaningful spiritual landmarks. Small in scale yet immense in symbolism, this sanctuary tells a story that has shaped Monaco’s identity for centuries.

Last week, I had the opportunity to visit the Church of Sainte Dévote myself. Stepping inside, away from the movement of the port and the surrounding city, the atmosphere immediately invites calm and reflection. It is a place where time seems to slow, allowing history, faith, and tradition to speak softly but clearly.

Who was Sainte Dévote?

Sainte Dévote, also known as Saint Devota, is the patron saint of Monaco and the Patron Saint of the Princely Family of Monaco. According to tradition, she was a young Christian from Corsica who was martyred around the year 303 during Roman persecutions.

After her death, her body was placed on a boat, destined for burial elsewhere. Legend tells that the vessel was caught in a violent storm and eventually washed ashore at the foot of the Rock of Monaco. Interpreting this as a divine sign, the local community built a small chapel on the spot where the boat landed. From that moment on, Sainte Dévote became closely associated with Monaco, regarded as a protector of sailors and, over time, of the Principality and its ruling dynasty.

The Church of Sainte Dévote

The present church has its origins in the 11th century, though it has been rebuilt and restored several times due to invasions, damage, and the passage of time. Its location is striking: nestled between the sea and the rock, overlooking the harbour, it symbolically reflects the saint’s arrival by water.

Inside, the church remains modest and intimate. Soft light, simple lines, and devotional details create a sense of quiet reverence rather than grandeur. During my visit, what stood out most was the feeling of continuity: a living connection between centuries of belief and the present-day Principality, watched over by the same patron saint who has long been associated with the Grimaldi family.

Sainte Dévote Day: a living tradition

Every year on January 27th, Monaco honours its patron saint with one of its most symbolic and emotional ceremonies. The day begins with a religious service at the Church of Sainte Dévote, traditionally attended by members of the Princely Family, underlining the special bond between Sainte Dévote and Monaco’s ruling house.

In the evening, a ceremonial boat is set ablaze in the harbour, commemorating the legendary vessel that carried Sainte Dévote’s remains to Monaco. The flames, reflected on the water, form a powerful and moving spectacle, followed by fireworks. The celebrations continue on January 28th, a public holiday in Monaco, with further religious and official events.

This annual tradition beautifully illustrates how faith, legend, and dynastic identity remain closely intertwined in modern Monaco.

Where history and devotion meet

Visiting the Church of Sainte Dévote offers more than insight into religious history. It reveals how legend can shape a nation’s identity and how tradition continues to live on alongside contemporary life. Amid Monaco’s reputation for glamour and prestige, this small church stands as a reminder of the Principality’s spiritual roots and the enduring bond between Sainte Dévote and the Princely Family.

For anyone interested in royal history, meaningful traditions, and the quieter side of Monaco, Sainte Dévote is an essential place to visit. Have you ever been to the Church of Sainte Dévote or witnessed the January celebrations? I warmly invite you to share your experience. Follow All About Royal Families on Instagram, Facebook and X, for more royal destinations, traditions, and stories that connect past and present.

The Entrance of the Sainte Dévote Church in Monaco with me taking pictures :-) 

💥 It was in this church that Princess Charlène of Monaco laid down her wedding bouquet in tears. 

More about the royal history of Monaco on this link. 

Own pictures taken in January 2026