Rainier III, Prince of Monaco (He suspended the previous constitution in 1959, saying that it "has hindered the administrative and political life of the country.") The changes ended autocratic rule, placing power with the prince and a National Council of eighteen elected members. At the time of his death, he was the world's second longest-serving living head of state (independent), ranking just below the King of Thailand, Bhumibol Adulyadej. After a year-long courtship described as containing "a good deal of rational appraisal on both sides" ("The Times", 7 April 2005, page 59), Prince Rainier married Oscar-winning American actress Grace Kelly (1929–1982) in 1956. The ceremonies
National Day of Monaco The birth of Albert II's children has been celebrated in a similar fashion as a national day and 7 January 2015 was declared a public holiday (one-time only). National Day of Monaco The National Day of Monaco (, literally Prince's holiday) also known as The Sovereign Prince's Day is currently annually celebrated on 19 November. The date of the National day is traditionally determined by the reigning Prince. The previous Princes often chose the day of the saint they were named after. For instance the late Prince Rainier III chose 19 November, the day that celebrates St. Rainier. When Prince