In the heart of Monaco, where land meets sea in a seamless embrace of nature and innovation, a guided walk through the new Mareterra district offers visitors a rare glimpse into one of the Principality’s most ambitious urban developments. This immersive promenade invites participants to explore the landscape, architecture, and ecological ingenuity behind the transformation of this once-marine space into a flourishing extension of the city.
Spanning 9,400 square metres of green spaces, Mareterra is home to an impressive 800 trees and 35,000 plants, carefully curated to harmonise with the natural surroundings. Water plays a central role in the district’s design, with five elegant fountains and a cascading water channel flowing from the summit of the Colline to the Larvotto shoreline. On the opposite side, the much-loved Japanese Garden has been expanded, now featuring a newly built pagoda that enhances its tranquil charm.
At the heart of Mareterra’s philosophy is sustainability. Ingenious water management systems have been implemented, including a rainwater collection basin to irrigate the lush vegetation and a stormwater reservoir designed to prevent excess discharge into the sea. These innovations reflect Monaco’s commitment to ecological responsibility while enhancing the beauty and functionality of its urban spaces.
Among the district’s most captivating features are two new hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The “Grotte Bleue” reveals the inner workings of a Jarlan caisson, an essential maritime structure designed to break waves and protect the coastline. Meanwhile, the “Meditation Space” offers a serene retreat, where visitors can unwind among quartz, glass, and metal sculptures that inspire quiet contemplation.
Led by the Urban Planning Department, this guided walk offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and craftsmanship that shaped Mareterra, from the meticulous planting of its gardens to the cutting-edge infrastructure that makes it a model of modern urbanism. It’s an opportunity to engage with the minds behind the project and witness firsthand the expertise that brought this vision to life.
The next walks are scheduled for Wednesday, February 26, Wednesday, March 5, Wednesday, March 12, and Wednesday, March 19, with participants meeting at 14:00 in Place Princesse Gabriella, in front of “Quatre Lances”, the striking sculpture by Alexander Calder. Whether you’re drawn by an interest in architecture, sustainability, or simply the beauty of Monaco’s evolving landscape, this immersive experience offers a fresh perspective on the Principality’s newest district.
