Affirmation of sovereignty

International influence

Prince Charles III endeavoured to turn the Principality into a modern State which would be internationally recognised and which would have all the attributes of sovereignty: he reformed the legal and administrative systems, he developed diplomatic relations and signed treaties, in 1857 he instituted a “Fête du Souverain” and, in 1858, he introduced a national medal, the Order of Saint-Charles. He also created a new nobility which was founded on merit and virtue, in 1881 he provided a national flag for the country, he reestablished monetary impressions which had been abandoned in 1838. In 1885 he gave the Principality postage stamps, he finalised religious autonomy by ensuring the creation of a diocese in 1887 and he also managed to get Monaco involved in international exhibitions. He died in 1889.

1887: The founding of the diocese

Pope Leo XIII granted religious autonomy to the Principality with the building of the diocese in Monaco in 1887, in response to the request of Prince Charles III : “We are establishing a new diocese throughout this country, which is currently subject to the authority of His Serene Highness Prince Charles III, which will follow the same borders as the civil powers."