Monaco prepares to bid Rainier farewell

MONACO will mix royal pomp, solemn Roman Catholic ceremonies and tight security as it hosts VIPs from around the world for today’s funeral of Prince Rainier III.

Dozens of dignitaries - including kings, princes, presidents and diplomats - will pay their respects before Rainier’s coffin at the 17th-century Palatine Chapel in Monaco’s royal palace. Perched on a rock, the palace overlooks the principality that Rainier ruled for 56 years.

From the chapel, VIPs will be escorted via a 17th-century marble staircase to present condolences to Rainier’s son and heir, Prince Albert II, and his daughters, Princesses Caroline and Stephanie.