Saint Devota, patron saint of Monaco

The boat soon encountered a storm but was guided by a dove that led it safely to Monaco, a port of call in Roman times. The ship ran aground in the Vallon des Gaumates, the site of the current Church of St. Devota, where the young martyr was buried. An oratory was built to mark the location of the tomb. “Believers, people who lived in Monaco or passing navigators, came to pay tribute in large numbers and the first miracles were performed. One night, however, a man stole the relics of the saint with the intent of selling them. The sacrilegious act was quickly thwarted by a group of fishermen who pursued the criminal and reached him in a few oar strokes. The thief’s boat was then burned on the beach in atonement”, explains Roger Rossi, author of a documentary film on Saint Devota.

Worship of Saint Devota continues fervently today in Monaco. It is customary for brides to offer their wedding bouquet to the Saint. Grace Kelly and Charlene Wittstock got married at the Cathedral of Monaco, but they left their bouquet in the small Church of St. Devota.

It’s worth noting that the first corner of the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit is called the ‘Saint Devota’, as it is located in front of the paved courtyard of the church, which serves as an escape route for the circuit.

Find out more :

https://www.saintedevotemonaco.com/patronne-de-monaco/