Background

Église de Sainte-Dévote: Monaco's Patron Saint

Discover the serene Église de Sainte-Dévote in Monaco, a historic church dedicated to the principality's patron saint, steeped in legend and tradition.

4.6
A question is required

The Église de Sainte-Dévote is a Catholic church in Monaco dedicated to Saint Devota, the principality's patron saint. With origins tracing back to the 11th century, the church holds a special place in Monegasque history and tradition, particularly linked to the Princely Family.

A brief summary to Église de Sainte-Dévote

Local tips

  • Entry to the church is free.
  • Consider visiting between 10 AM and 6 PM for a better chance of entering the church.
  • Witness the burning of a boat on January 26th, the eve of Sainte Devote's feast day, a traditional Monegasque ceremony.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Monaco-Monte Carlo train station, the Église de Sainte-Dévote is approximately a 10-minute walk. Head south on Avenue d'Ostende, then turn right onto Avenue de la Madone. Continue straight, and you'll find the church on your left, just before the Sainte-Dévote corner of the Formula One track.

  • Public Transport

    Monaco's bus system provides access to the church. Take any of the bus routes that stop at Place Sainte-Dévote. A single ticket costs €1.50 if purchased in advance or via the Monapass app, or €2 if purchased from the driver. A day pass for unlimited journeys costs €5.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Monaco. A short taxi ride from the Monaco-Monte Carlo train station to the Église de Sainte-Dévote will cost approximately €8-€9 and take only a few minutes.

Unlock the Best of Église de Sainte-Dévote

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Église de Sainte-Dévote

The Église de Sainte-Dévote, nestled in the ravine of Sainte-Dévote, is more than just a church; it's a symbol of Monegasque identity. Dedicated to Saint Devota, the patron saint of Monaco, its history is intertwined with the principality's own. Legend says that Saint Devota, a young Christian woman from Corsica, was martyred around 304 AD. Her body, set adrift in a boat, washed ashore on Monaco's coast. A chapel was first built on this site around 1070, and the current church was inaugurated in 1871. The church has undergone numerous restorations and enlargements over the centuries. Inside, visitors can view the 18th-century marble altar that houses the saint's relics. Stained-glass windows, restored in 1948 after being destroyed in World War II, add to the church's beauty. The church also features depictions of Christ, Saint Anthony, and the Virgin Mary, as well as the Grimaldi family crest. Sainte-Dévote is deeply embedded in Monaco's traditions. Each year, on January 26th, the eve of Saint Devota's feast day, a boat is burned in a traditional ceremony. Furthermore, in Monegasque tradition, the bride of the Sovereign Prince lays her bridal bouquet at the chapel after the wedding ceremony. The first corner of the Circuit de Monaco, home to the Monaco Grand Prix, is also named after the chapel. A statue of Sainte-Dévote stands in front of the church. Visiting the church offers a glimpse into the heart of Monaco's spiritual and cultural heritage.

Popular Experiences near Église de Sainte-Dévote

Popular Hotels near Église de Sainte-Dévote

Select Currency