Built in 1871, this church stands on the site of an 11th-century votive chapel. Both were dedicated to Sainte-Dévote, patron saint of the Principality and the princely family. While the church may seem modest in size and sober in architecture, it is of great importance to Monaco and its inhabitants, housing the relics of the Saint. Don’t hesitate to enter to better understand this veneration!
Here are some useful tips for planning your visit to Sainte-Dévote Church in the Principality of Monaco.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is a visit to Sainte-Dévote Church worthwhile?
This church is well worth a look if you’re passing by. Indeed, it is of great importance to Monegasques. It is dedicated to Saint Devote, patron saint of the Principality of Monaco, the princely family, the Archdiocese and Corsica. Every January 26, the princely family and the local population celebrate, and the Principality is blessed. The church was built in its present form in 1871, during the reign of Prince Charles III, on the site of a former chapel.
What you can see
A shrine containing the relics of Sainte-Dévote
Once inside, turn left. You’ll see a small gold shrine containing the saint’s relics. Just imagine: every January 26, the eve of the patron saint’s feast day, these relics arrive in port on a boat, while prayers are recited. A dove is released, then the Prince sets a boat ablaze. This refers to an attempted theft of the relics in medieval times, thwarted by the Monegasques, who set fire to the criminals’ boats. We were moved to see these relics, knowing the great veneration in which they are held.
Representations of the Saint’s life
Throughout your visit, you can admire representations of the Saint in paintings and stained glass. They recount the life of this saint, who sacrificed herself for her Christian faith in the early 4th century (303/312). After his martyrdom, his body was mysteriously transported on a boat guided by a dove to the port of Monaco. This dove can also be seen in the stained glass window on the right!
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Numerous sculptures
In addition to paintings and stained glass windows dedicated to Sainte-Dévote, the church is home to a number of small sculptures. We saw representations of Christ, Saint Anthony and the Virgin Mary. You’ll also notice the red-and-white checkerboard coat of arms of the Grimaldi family (princely family) on several occasions.
A polychrome marble altar
In the choir, you won’t want to miss this imposing polychrome marble altar. It too is adorned with the Grimaldi family coat of arms. We owe it to Prince Antoine I, 3rd sovereign of Monaco. Although massive, we found these shades refined.
A beautiful organ
On your way out, look up to admire the organ. Can you spot the Grimaldi family coat of arms? Take time to walk around the church. We didn’t notice it right away, but here you’ll find the official life-size statue of the Saint, complete with boat and dove. Inaugurated in 1997, it was commissioned by Prince Rainier III from sculptor Cyril de la Patellière.
WHERE TO STAY IN Monaco
Option 1: In Monte Carlo
Discover luxury palaces in Monaco’s most sought-after district:
- Hotel de Paris – see prices, pictures and availability
- Hermitage Hotel – see prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Métropole – see prices, photos and availability
Option 2: Larvotto
Close to Larvotto beach, you’ll find some splendid resort hotels.
We recommend..:
- Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort – view prices, pictures and availability
- Le Méridien Beach Plaza – view prices, pictures and availability
Option 3: At Port-Hercule
Boutique hotels, with superb views of the port and the Rock.
- Hotel Miramar – prices, pictures and availability
- Port Palace – see prices, photos and availability
Sainte-Dévote Church in Monaco: how to get there
Where is the church?
- In Monaco
- in the Port-Hercule district, less than 10 minutes’ walk from the station.
Access by car and parking
It’s hard to get around Monaco and find an outdoor parking space. We recommend parking in an underground parking lot at a charge. The nearest is the Sainte-Dévote parking lot.
Public transport access
To get there by public transport, take bus lines 1, 2, 3 and 6 to the “Princesse Antoinette – Gare” stop. To plan your route, visit the official public transport website here.
Visiting difficulties
The church is not accessible to people with reduced mobility due to steps at the entrance. There are no toilets.
HAVE FUN WITH THESE activities
- Great kayak trips in:
Saint-Tropez to the Ramatuelle reserve
Cassis to the calanques - Helicopter flight from Cannes
- Shuttle service along the coast between Nice and Saint-Tropez
- Bike tours: eBike in Nice – Mountain biking in the Esterel massif
Useful tips for visiting Saint Devote’s Church
Schedules and prices
- Admission is free.
- We didn’t see or find any opening hours. We recommend that you get there between 10am and 6pm if you hope to get in.
See the latest info, including mass details, on the official website here.
How long
Allow 10 to 20 minutes to visit it, depending on your level of interest.
Best moment
The church is rarely visited. We advise you only to go outside the mass times, which you can find here.
Direction of visit
There’s no set way to visit it, but we recommend you explore the side altars before exploring the nave.
Eating out
The church is right in the center of town. The Port-Hercule district is home to a number of restaurants, including “Supernature”, which we really enjoyed. To find out more, read our article on the best restaurants in Monaco.
Hotels
You’re in the heart of the Principality of Monaco. The Miramar and Port Palace hotels are just a ten-minute walk away! You can discover our entire selection in our article on the best hotels in Monaco.
