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Monaco’s “The Olympic Flame Through Time” exhibition showcases 40 Olympic torches from Prince Albert II’s collection, spanning Berlin 1936 to Paris 2024. The spirit of the Olympics through this unique display takes place at the Grimaldi Forum Monaco from July 18 to August 18, 2024.
In the shimmering heart of Monaco, the spirit of the Olympic Games comes alive in an unprecedented celebration. As the 33rd edition of the Olympic Games unfolds, the Principality invites visitors to an extraordinary journey through history with “The Olympic Flame Through Time exhibition,” showcasing the private collection of Olympic torches belonging to H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco. This exhibition promises an immersive experience into the heritage and evolution of the Olympic flame.
From Berlin 1936 to Paris 2024, the exhibition displays 40 torches, each a marvel of engineering and artistry, representing the culture and innovation of its time. Visitors are invited to explore the significance of each torch, from their technological prowess designed to withstand diverse elements to their artistic designs symbolizing the host countries’ unique cultural heritage. This collection serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of peace, friendship and fraternity that the Olympic Games inspire.
Photo Credit: Valery Hache / AFP
The collection of H.S.H. Prince Albert II is a display of historical artifacts and a homage to Monaco’s rich Olympic legacy. The princely family’s connection to the Olympics is illustrious, with Prince Albert II’s maternal grandfather, John B. Kelly Sr., a two-time gold medalist in rowing at the 1920 and 1924 Games. The legacy continues with the athletic contributions of Princess Charlene and Prince Albert II himself, embodying a familial passion for sports that transcends generations. The exhibition’s visionary design, crafted by architect Frédéric Genin, features a unique scenography that traces the paths of the Summer and Winter Olympics through two parallel lines, illuminating the torches’ historical and aesthetic significance. This creative layout not only highlights the beauty of each torch but also underscores the innovation and cultural context of the Olympic Games over the decades.
On the opening day, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene, accompanied by Louis Ducruet and Mélanie-Antoinette de Massy, graced the Grimaldi Forum Monaco to inaugurate the exhibition. Their presence added a personal touch to the event, emphasizing the deep connection between the princely family and the Olympic tradition. Accessible to all and free of charge, “The Olympic Flame Through Time” exhibition invites everyone to experience a piece of Olympic history. It is an invitation to reflect on the legacy of the Games and the enduring power of sport to unite people across the globe.
As visitors walk through the exhibition, they would witness a display of timeless torches and embark on a journey through time, experiencing the evolution of the Olympic spirit, and celebrating a legacy that continues to inspire future generations.
