Sainte-Dévote Church

About this place

Sainte-Dévote Church is a small Catholic church in a narrow valley in Monaco, dedicated to the principality's patron saint. It stands beside a famous corner of the Grand Prix circuit, below a high bridge, joining the quiet of worship with the roar of racing, and it is one of the most surprising sights in this tiny state. It is first mentioned in documents of 1070. It was restored in the 16th century, Prince Honoré II added a span in 1606 and a porch followed in 1637. The front was rebuilt in 1870, and it became the parish church in 1887. Tradition says a boat carrying the saint's body in the 3rd century was guided to this shore by a dove. By custom, the bride of the sovereign prince lays her bouquet here after the wedding. The pale front has a classical look, with three arched doors and a small bell tower, against a thickly green rock wall. A little square surrounds it, with a big bridge passing overhead. A symbolic boat is burned before it each year on 26 January, with a grand procession the next day, recalling thieves said to have stolen the relics. It is about 250 m in a straight line from the Prince's Car Collection and 370 m from central La Condamine, close to the harbour. This is a working place of worship, so dress modestly, stay quiet and respect services. Barriers make it very hard to reach during Grand Prix days, so plan for that. Mind the traffic when crossing the road.