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Monaco Royal Wedding: The fairytale nuptials of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace

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Fifty years on, it remains one of the most iconic and glamorous love stories of our time.On April 19, 1956, the world watched as Prince Rainier of Monaco wed Hollywood actress Grace Kelly at the Cathedral of St Nicholas.The beautiful bride wore a dress created by Helen Rose, while the groom designed a military uniform especially for the happy occasion.It was an emotional day for the people of Monaco, who cheered and applauded the newlyweds as they departed the cathedral as husband and wife.And the principality continued to mark the historic event with several days of celebrations.Ranier and Grace exchanged vows a day earlier in a civil ceremony held in the throne room at the Palace of Monaco, attended by their close friends and family.

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A close-up of Princess Grace in her wedding dress, designed by Helen Rose 

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In keeping with Monegasque tradition, the bride arrived at the cathedral on her father's arm minutes before the groom 

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Princess Grace´s bridesmaids were dressed in simple yellow gowns 

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Prince Rainier of Monaco and Princess Grace were married on April 19, 1956 in Monaco's Cathedral of St. Nicholas 

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A quiet moment during the religious ceremony 

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Cheers and applause rose up from the people of Monaco as the newlyweds departed the cathedral 

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Princess Grace surrounded by hundreds of guests at her fairytale wedding 

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The couple left the cathedral in a vintage car 

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Adding to the glamour of the occassion was Grace's friend Ava Gardner 

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The small principality felt more like Hollywood during the high-profile event 

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Reporters gathered in droves 

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The Monegasques enjoyed several days of celebrations 

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Grace looked every inch a princess on the day of her civil wedding