Prince Albert to visit Mayo next month to unveil sculpture

PRINCE Albert of Monaco is set to visit Mayo next month.

He will be unveilling a specially commissioned sculpture of his late mother, Princess Grace, in Newport.

The visit was confirmed by Newport Business Association on its social media this morning.

Prince Albert will be welcomed to Newport on Thursday, March 16, for the unveiling of the sculpture, which was created by Mayo sculptor Mark Rode.

The sculpture will be situated on Castlebar Street, at the entrance to Newport’s landmark seven arch viaduct.

In 2019, Newport Business Association initiated the idea of celebrating Newport as 'The Town of the Two Graces' - Grainne Uaile (Grace O’Malley) from the 16th century and Grace Kelly from the 20th century.

It was decided to commission sculptures of these two iconic women, who have such strong links with the town.

Princess Grace's ancestors hailed from Drimurla, just outside Newport, and both the princess and her son have visited the area.

The statue of Grainne Uaile will be unveiled later in the year.

Prince Albert personally selected the final image for the sculpture of Princess Grace.

The event will be open to the public and will be a momentous day for the town, say organisers.

A reception will follow in Hotel Newport but due to palace security protocol this will be a restricted event.