MARIE BLANC
The wife of the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer founder left an indelible mark on Monaco. An intelligent, enterprising and business-minded woman, Marie married François Blanc when she was 18 years old. She and her husband were personally invited to Monaco by Prince Charles III in 1863 with the aim of developing the country’s tourism potential, and Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer was born. Marie played an active role in her husband’s projects, including the legendary Cellars at the Hôtel de Paris, which are now known as the most extensive hotel cellars in the world.
SARAH BERNHARDT
After training for many years at the Conservatoire de Paris and a stage debut at the Comédie-Française, Sarah Bernhardt was invited to Monaco in 1879 to christen the new stage at the Opéra de Monte-Carlo, where she gave a dazzling performance. The Parisian actress captivated her audience, and went on to become the greatest tragic actress of her time. One of the finest suites at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo was named after the star for several years.
COCO CHANEL
She put women in trousers, and gave them permission to run. She popularised tanning, androgynous sportswear and short hair. She revolutionised fashion, and she didn't stop there: she changed the image of women entirely. She was Gabrielle Chanel, also known as Coco, and she was born in 1883 to a low-income family in Saumur. Mingling as she did with the world’s greatest artists, she became a close friend of Jean Cocteau. This led to her designing the costumes for the famous ‘Le Train Bleu’ ballet in 1924, which came to Monte-Carlo in 1925. So began her great love story with Monaco, and the Société des Bains de Mer Resort.
EDITH PIAF
Known for her personality and extraordinary voice, Edith Piaf inspired countless songwriters and was a mentor to many young artists. A French singer of international renown, her songs fast became timeless cult classics. L’Hymne à l’amour, Milord, and of course La Vie en Rose are just a few of her greatest hits. The Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo became a regular haunt of hers, and particularly le Bar Américain, where she loved to entertain friends during her holidays to Monaco.
ROMY SCHNEIDER
The German actress enjoyed rapid international success early in her career thanks to her role as Sissi Empress of Austria. Her beauty and talent turned heads from a very young age. She discovered the French Riviera and Monaco while she was filming 'Tous à la piscine' in 1968. She fell in love with the place, and made several trips to the Principality during the shoot.
MARIA CALLAS
Greek soprano Maria Callas is undoubtedly the most renowned and influential female opera singer of her time. After a hugely successful career of winning performances, she became involved with the famous Greek shipping magnate Aristote Onasis, who in 1953 was the main shareholder in Société des Bains de Mer de Monaco. The magnificent singer subsequently went on to become firm friends with Princess Grace and Prince Rainier III. She was a member of the royal couple’s inner circle and a guest at some of the Principality’s finest venues – such as the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo – for around fifteen years.
JOSEPHINE BAKER
A singer, dancer, actress and music hall star, Josephine Baker's was a long and tumultuous career. The American-born leading lady settled in Monaco when she was 63 years old, at the personal invitation of Princess Grace. She stayed in the Villa l’Aiglon, and turned in a triumphant performance at the Sporting Club in 1974. An incontrovertible celebrity figure, she made her mark on Monegasque history with her unique shows – and on le Bar Américain too, where she liked to go after performing.
ELISABETH TAYLOR
Born in London to American parents, Elisabeth Taylor’s Hollywood career began when she was just 10 years old. Her allure and British style intrigued audiences, leading to a long love affair with the silver screen. Her 1963 role as Cleopatra saw her rise to international stardom, becoming one of the most iconic actresses of her time. She was soon rubbing shoulders with famous film stars around the world – and royalty too. A guest of Princess Grace at a number of events, she attended several celebrations in Monaco, both as part of the Royal Family’s inner circle and more public occasions.