Nearly 700 children from Monaco received their Christmas gifts from the hands of the princely family

A few days before Christmas, nearly 700 children spent the afternoon at the Prince's Palace this Wednesday for the traditional gift-giving orchestrated by the Sovereign and his family.

A forest of illuminated fir trees occupies the heart of the Cour d'honneur. Where just a few weeks ago, it was time for the military parade for the National Day. Less protocol and more garlands yesterday at the Prince's Palace, where the sovereign household was in festive attire to welcome the young Monegasques.

Once through the main door, a quartet of magician and dancer artists took charge of the atmosphere in front of the families who were half amused, half impressed to be received in this place so symbolic of the Principality.