Monaco Mourns the Passing of Dr. Jean-Joseph Pastor: A Pillar of Medical Excellence
The late doctor, who served as a personal physician to Prince Rainier III, left a profound legacy in Monaco's medical history.
Monaco is in a period of mourning following the death of Dr. Jean-Joseph Pastor, former Chancellor of the Princely Orders and personal physician to Prince Rainier III.
Prince Albert II expressed 'immense sadness' in an official statement released on April 3, honoring a man whose professional journey is deeply interwoven with the modern history of Monaco.
Dr. Pastor's influence extended beyond the royal palace.
As the former head of cardiology at the Princess Grace Hospital Centre, he was instrumental in pioneering cardiovascular care, ensuring that the principality remained at the forefront of medical innovation.
His vision was particularly evident in his role as co-founder of the Monaco Cardio-Thoracic Centre, an institution that has garnered international fame for specialized healthcare.
Under his stewardship, Monaco cultivated a reputation for medical excellence.
The princely statement reverently noted Dr. Pastor's witness of the Liberation of Monaco in 1944, a historical perspective that informed his subsequent forty years of service on the National Council from 1968 to 2008, where he discreetly and wisely contributed to Monaco's political evolution.
Prince Albert II extended 'sincere condolences' to Dr. Pastor's family, friends, and 'all those who had the honor of knowing him.' The sovereign particularly highlighted Dr. Pastor's dedication to the Princely Family, especially towards Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace, who benefited from his extensive medical expertise.
In other news, Prince Albert II visited the prestigious Scuderie del Quirinale in Rome to inaugurate the exhibition 'Il Mondo a Roma,' which explores intercultural dialogues during the Baroque period.
Monaco's contribution included the loan of a significant work by Nicolas Poussin, 'Hannibal Crossing the Alps on an Elephant.' This exhibition, running from April 3 to July 13, 2025, features masterpieces from renowned artists, reflecting Rome's historical openness to global influences.
Furthermore, on April 6, in celebration of the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, the 9th Princess Charlène Rally took place in Fontvieille, engaging over 400 Monegasque schoolchildren.
Organized in collaboration with the Princess Charlène Foundation, this event emphasized the principality’s commitment to sport, peace, and education.
Participants engaged in various sports challenges and educational conferences, culminating in a symbolic moment supporting the global #WhiteCard campaign by Peace and Sport.
As the 2025 Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters approaches, Monaco has implemented transport arrangements to facilitate access to the tournament.
Spectators are advised to use free shuttles provided by the Compagnie des Autobus de Monaco and special train services for arrivals from the East.
An exclusive service of helicopter flights from Nice Airport to Monaco will also be available, illustrating the logistical preparations surrounding this prestigious event.
Additionally, a new fleet of 28 seasonal electric taxis has debuted in Monaco to cater to the increase in tourists and high-profile events during the summer season.
This initiative aligns with the principality's commitment to environmental sustainability, as the taxis operate solely on electric power, offering competitive fares and service continuity.
The upcoming Monaco E-Prix and Formula 1 Grand Prix are expected to significantly impact local traffic, with specific street closures announced to accommodate the events.
Local authorities have issued guidelines to navigate these alterations, ensuring public awareness of the changes leading up to the racing events.
In the realm of leisure activities, the Box 98 entertainment complex will open its doors in Fontvieille on April 1, providing a significant recreational venue featuring an indoor karting track, arcade games, and a bowling alley.
This development aims to address the demand for entertainment options in Monaco, particularly for younger residents.
A photography competition focused on Monaco’s architectural heritage has also been launched for participants aged 11 to 25, encouraging artistic engagement with the principality's rich history.
Winners will have their work displayed at the Saint-Martin gardens from June 3 to October 5, coinciding with European Heritage Days 2025.
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