Prince Rainier of Monaco has been getting into the festive spirit by giving out gifts to the children of his palace staff. It's a tradition the 79-year-old monarch observes every year and his appearance to greet the youngsters will assuage worries about his health.
Fears for his well-being were sparked when he wasn't able to attend the Riviera principality's National Day celebrations earlier this year. He was being treated for a pulmonary infection at the time and his children, Prince Albert and Princess Caroline, had to take over his duties. The ailing monarch was also hospitalised for several days in May, suffering from fatigue and bronchitis.
He seemed to be in better health and better spirits on Thursday, however, as he greeted dozens of young children at his home in Monte Carlo. He'll now be looking forward to spending Christmas with his children and, of course, his seven grandchildren.
Rainier, who was married to the late film star Grace Kelly, has ruled the tiny principality for the last 53 years.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
