Restoration of the Charles Samuel High Relief at Princess Grace Hospital

Works at CHPG

The Princess Grace Hospital (CHPG) in Monaco, the Principality's only public hospital, was built at the initiative of Prince Albert I to replace the old "Hôtel-Dieu" located in Monaco-Ville. Thus, the new "Hôtel-Dieu" was inaugurated in 1902 in the Salines district, before being renamed "Albert I" in 1908, and subsequently becoming the Princess Grace Hospital Centre in 1964.

As the hospital is currently undergoing extension and renovation works, the numerous works within it must be moved. The Heritage Institute has taken responsibility for ensuring the preservation and conservation of these works.

The Medallion by Belgian Artist Charles Samuel (1862–1938)

This preservation mission notably led to the rediscovery of the work of Belgian sculptor and medallist Charles Samuel. This white marble high relief depicts a maternal figure offering care and comfort to an apparently ill young man. This allegory thus embodies the assistance provided by the nurses of Monaco's hospital to the sick. The artist created this sculpture specifically for Monaco's new Hôtel-Dieu in 1902. Placed above the entrance of the main pavilion, demolished in 1979, this stone medallion is one of the last traces of the historic building.

The Restoration Process

To restore this sculpture to its original lustre, the Heritage Institute arranged for the restoration of the high relief. A biocide treatment was applied to eliminate micro-organisms (mosses, lichens), followed by brush and water cleaning to remedy abrasion. Finally, the existing cracks were consolidated.

What Next?

This medallion will be relocated to the exterior of CHPG, in the garden, and enhanced by appropriate mounting.

© 2026 Alessandro Ingoglia