The daily ceremonial guard change at the Prince’s Palace of Monaco took on a seasonal twist on Monday, May 4, as the Prince’s Carabiniers formally transitioned from their winter dress to their summer uniform during the 11:55am changing of the guard.
The shift marks the latest observance of a long-standing military tradition in the Principality, with the ceremonial unit adapting its attire in line with the warmer months as part of its official protocol duties at the palace.
The practice dates back more than a century, originating with the historic Compagnie des Gardes established between 1870 and 1904, which first introduced the seasonal change of uniform. The custom has been preserved ever since, becoming a familiar and symbolic feature of Monaco’s ceremonial calendar.
Each day, visitors gather outside the palace to watch the precision drill of the guard change, a routine that blends military discipline with heritage display. The seasonal uniform switch adds a subtle but notable visual shift to the ceremony, reflecting the change in climate while maintaining the strict formality of the ritual.
Today’s transition was carried out seamlessly, underscoring the continuity of tradition within one of Monaco’s most recognisable institutions and reinforcing the enduring role of the Carabiniers in the Principality’s ceremonial life.
