The builder prince, dies at 81

Europe’s prince, the longest-serving monarch, died at 81 from multiple organ failure at the following a month-long lung infection. His reign lasted six decades. The Queen, who succeeds Prince Rainier as Europe’s longest-serving monarch, sent his family a message of condolence.

The Jacques Chirac, the French president, hailed the prince’s “courage and tenacity” in the face of his failing health. He said Prince Rainier, who took the throne in 1949, “enabled his country to gain access to the international stage” while preserving its originality. The principality, whose Roman Catholic population was already grieving for Pope John Paul II, was plunged into deeper mourning, the doors of its famed Monte Carlo casino closed immediately the news was announced.

“Everyone feels orphaned,” said Patrick Leclercq, head of government to Monaco’s 32,000 residents. A keen supporter of the famous F1 street race, Prince Rainier is succeeded by bachelor-son Prince Albert, 47.

Monaco residents like David Coulthard and Jenson Button enjoy the principality’s controversial income tax setup. His only son, Albert, 47, was at his side when he died and automatically succeeded him in accordance with long-standing tradition. Prince Albert now becomes Prince Albert II. Church bells brought the news to the principality’s residents, which officially number 33,000, although only about 25,000 people actually live here full time.