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 elsewhe...