Prince Albert of Monaco is due in the county Mayo town of Newport tomorrow afternoon at 12.30pm to unveil a sculpture of his late mother Princess Grace and all are welcome.
The Prince will unveil the specially commissioned sculpture situated on Castlebar Street, at the entrance to Newport’s landmark seven arch bridge.
Newport Business Association extended the invitation to the Prince, for the unveiling of the sculpture, which was created by Mayo sculptor Mark Rode.
In 2019, Newport Business Association initiated the idea of celebrating Newport as 'The Town of the Two Graces' - Grainne Uaile (Grace O’Malley) from the 16th century and Grace Kelly from the 20th century.
It was decided to commission sculptures of these two iconic women, who have strong links with the town.
Princess Grace's ancestors came from the village of Drimurla, just outside Newport, and both the princess, her husband Prince Rainier and her son had previously visited the area.
Princess Grace died at the age of 52 in Monaco in 1982, from injuries sustained in a car crash.
The statue of Grainne Uaile, a 16th century pirate queen, is scheduled to unveiled next year.
Prince Albert personally selected the final image for the sculpture of Princess Grace.
Tomorrow’s unveiling of the statue is a community occasion and open to the public
A small private reception will follow in Hotel Newport.
Sarah Chambers is a member of the Newport Business Association and she’s been telling Midwest News Editor Teresa O’Malley more about the excitement in Newport ahead of the big occasion…
