The royal family of Monaco, led by Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene, welcomed Pope Leo XIV last weekend in a rare and symbolic visit.
The Pope arrived by helicopter from Vatican City to Monaco, making the journey between the world’s smallest and second-smallest sovereign states. The royal couple was joined by their 11-year-old twins, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, as they greeted the pontiff at the Prince’s Palace on March 28.
The family later attended a public Mass held at Monaco’s stadium, where the moment carried both spiritual and royal significance.
The Meaning Behind the White Dress
One detail captured global attention: Princess Charlene’s white outfit.
In Vatican tradition, wearing white in the presence of the Pope is a rare honor known as the “privilege of white Vatican.” This privilege is granted only to a select group of Catholic queens and princesses.
Princess Charlene has previously worn white during official meetings with popes, including her first appearance with Pope Benedict XVI in 2013. She also wore white during a 2016 state visit and at Pope Leo’s inauguration Mass in May 2025.
Interestingly, her daughter Princess Gabriella also wore white, even though she does not officially hold this privilege. Experts suggest this may be a relaxed exception due to her young age.
Meanwhile, Prince Jacques wore a classic black three-piece suit, while Prince Albert opted for a dark blue ensemble.
Who Else Has the “Privilege of White”?
Only a handful of royal women are granted this honor. Among them are:
- Queen Letizia
- Queen Sofia
- Queen Mathilde
- Queen Paola
- Grand Duchess Maria Teresa
- Grand Duchess Stéphanie
During a recent visit to the Vatican, Queen Letizia also exercised this privilege, although she chose not to wear the traditional mantilla head covering.
The Rule for Everyone Else
Women without this privilege must follow a strict dress code when meeting the Pope. This includes wearing formal black attire with a veil covering the head and shoulders, symbolizing modesty and respect.
For example, Melania Trump followed this tradition during her 2017 Vatican visit with Donald Trump.
From royal elegance to centuries-old Vatican traditions, this story blends fashion, power, and symbolism. The “privilege of white” continues to fascinate audiences, turning every appearance into a visual statement loaded with history.