Prince Albert II visits Faucon-du-Caire for the consecration of a chapel dedicated to Sainte Dévote
H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco travelled to Faucon-du-Caire, in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, on 24 August 2026, for the consecration of the newly restored Sainte-Dévote – Saint-Jean-de-Matha chapel.
Located at Saint-Barthélemy in the Sasse Valley, the centuries-old building has a strong historical connection to the relics of Sainte Dévote, patron saint and protector of Monaco. The Sovereign met volunteers from the local association who spent two years restoring the chapel before attending its formal consecration.
Prince Albert II was welcomed by Isabelle Tomatis, Prefect of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, alongside Faucon-du-Caire Mayor Robert Zunino and Bishop Emmanuel Gobilliard. A commemorative panel recounting the history of the site was unveiled in French and Monegasque colours before the presentation of the relics and the religious ceremony.
The Prince praised the volunteers’ work, describing the restoration as an exceptional example of heritage preservation and highlighting the chapel’s renewed dedication to Sainte Dévote as a meaningful link with the Principality.
The event drew strong local participation in the village of just 64 inhabitants, with the ceremony also broadcast on a large outdoor screen for members of the public.
