In launching the Festival in 1961, Prince Rainier III of Monaco, "wished to encourage a new form of artistic expression, in the service of peace and understanding for mankind".

Monaco's international status ideally suited the Prince's ambition: to recognize television as an exceptional means of bringing cultures together and enhancing their respective knowledge. This project immediately generated worldwide interest and over the years, many distinguished celebrities have sat on the successive juries, bringing international recognition to the best of television programming. In 1988, H.S.H. Crown Prince Albert II was named Honorary President of the Festival.

Website »