Saint Devota's Day in Monaco Date in the current year: January 27, 2024

Saint Devota (Sainte Dévote) was born circa 283 on the island of Corsica. She devoted her life to the service of God. Devota was imprisoned and tortured to death during the persecutions of Diocletian and Maximian.

After her death, her body was brought to Monaco where it was discovered by fishermen. In honor of the saint, the Sainte-Dévote Chapel was built. The first mention of the chapel dates back to 1070.

The custom of celebrating Saint Devota's Day was introduced by Prince Louse II of Monaco in 1924. On the evening of January 26, a fire is set to a fishing boat in memory of the story of Antinope. Antinope was the captain of a Florentine ship who tried to steal Devota's relics. He was caught and arrested, and his ship was burnt. Another tradition is to release a white dove as a symbol of Devota's spirit.

On January 27, a special service is held at the Saint Nicholas Cathedral in Monaco-Ville. It is attended by the members of the House of Grimaldi. Celebration also includes receptions in the Opéra de Monte-Carlo and firework displays.