The Princely Couple of Monaco receive Pope Leo XIV

Prince Albert II invited Pope Leo XIV to visit Monaco during a private audience held earlier this year. Catholicism is the state religion of Monaco, and the ruling House of Grimaldi has held centuries long ties with the Holy See.

The Holy Father was greeted by the Princely Couple and their children, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella.

Princess Charlene is wearing white as she has privilège du blanc, or the privilege of white. Certain female royalty are permitted to wear white during an audience with the Pope. Other royals who have been permitted to wear white include Queen Letizia of Spain, Queen Mathilde of Belgium, Grand Duchess Stephanie, and the princesses of the House of Savoy. If one does not have this privilege then they must wear black.