Monaco · 100th anniversary of the death of Fürst Albert I

Albert I. ruled Monaco from 1889 until his death. In addition to his position as head of state, he devoted himself intensively to marine research. Using his own research vessels, he undertook expeditions in the Atlantic, the Mediterranean and Arctic waters. Among other things, currents, sea depths and marine organisms were studied. Because of this work, he was also referred to as the “Prince of the Seas”.

His research was not limited to financing scientific work. Albert took part in voyages himself, contributed to investigative methods and had the results published. The Oceanographic Museum of Monaco (Ozeanographisches Museum in Monaco) and the Oceanographic Institute in Paris (Ozeanographisches Institut in Paris) were established on his initiative. The museum opened in 1910 and combined research, scientific collections and public outreach. Both institutions still exist today within the framework of the foundation he established.

Another field of activity was the study of early human history. Albert supported archaeological excavations, particularly in the Grimaldi Caves (Grimaldi-Höhlen) near the present-day French-Italian border. He also founded the Institute of Human Paleontology (Institut für Humanpaläontologie) in Paris, which was intended to promote research into prehistoric humans and their lifeways.

Politically, too, his reign fell within a period of institutional change. In 1911, Monaco received its first constitution. Among other things, it created an elected National Council and limited the previously largely unrestricted rule of the Prince. Albert also campaigned for international understanding and the peaceful resolution of conflicts, but was unable to overcome the political divisions before the First World War.

The commemoration on a Monegasque commemorative coin can therefore not be explained solely by his membership of the princely house. His reign is associated with institutions that continue to shape Monaco’s public profile to this day, particularly oceanography. The round anniversary provided an occasion to remember both the former ruler and this scientific legacy.