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Wales Online
Wales Online
National
Elly Rewcastle

Who are Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene of Monaco?

The Prince of Monaco, Albert II, and his wife Princess Charlene of Monaco were in attendance at Queen Elizabeth II's funeral. The son of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace - the Hollywood actress Grace Kelly - Prince Albert II ascended to the throne of Monaco in 2005.

He is the husband of former Olympic swimmer Charlene Wittstock who now goes under the title Charlene, Princess of Monaco. They have two children, twins Gabriella Thérèse Marie and Jacques Honoré Rainier.

The prince also has two other children, born out of wedlock, Jazmin Grace Grimaldi and Alexandre Grimaldi-Coste. Albert is a graduate of political science, which he studied at Amherst College.

Read more: The Queen's funeral order of service in full

Following the news of the Queen's death, the couple shared heartfelt tributes. Posted to Princess Charlene's Instagram account, her statement read: "I am deeply saddened at the news of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, a truly great lady whose dedication and service was recognised throughout the world during the 70 years of her reign.

"Today, my thoughts are with her family, her children, her grandchildren, her great-grandchildren and the British people."

Prince Albert shared his own tribute, writing: "Her Majesty's unwavering dedication and commitment to her duty during her reign has always been extremely inspiring. It will long be remembered and admired.

"She truly represented the unity and dignity of the United Kingdom throughout the last seven decades."

Prince Albert also sent a letter of congratulations to the new monarch, Charles III. The pair have worked closely on environmental causes in the past.

He said: "The Princess and I wish you every success in leading the people of the United Kingdom and the many great nations of the Commonwealth. I am confident that under your reign, peace and stability will continue to prosper.

"I look forward to seeing the important work you have achieved throughout your life further flourish in the years to come. Notably, the great weight you place on sustainability, the fight against climate change and ocean conservation issues that I know we both feel are paramount for the future of our planet.

"On behalf of the citizens of the Principality of Monaco, it is my honour to share our best wishes of good health and prosperity."

The Principality of Monaco is a small sovereign city-state and microstate on the French Riviera. It has always been ruled over by princes and never kings.

Read more Royal Family stories here

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