Ascension Day

**Ascension Day in Monaco** Ascension Day, known as *Jour de l'Ascension* in French, is a significant Christian holiday celebrated in Monaco, as well as in many other countries around the world. It commemorates the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven, 40 days after his resurrection on Easter Sunday. This event is described in the New Testament and holds great religious importance for Christians. In Monaco, a predominantly Catholic country, Ascension Day is a public holiday, allowing residents to attend church services, spend time with family, and participate in various religious and cultural activities. Many Monegasques attend Mass at Monaco's historic churches, such as the Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate (Cathédrale de Monaco), where special prayers and hymns are offered to honor the occasion. The holiday is also a time for relaxation and reflection, with many people taking advantage of the day off to enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean surroundings, go for walks, or gather for meals with loved ones. While the day is rooted in religious tradition, it also serves as a peaceful break in the spring season, blending spirituality with leisure. Ascension Day typically falls on a Thursday, and its date varies each year, as it is determined by the lunar calendar, usually occurring in May. In Monaco, the holiday is observed with a sense of reverence and community, reflecting the principality's deep cultural and religious heritage.