Two historic villas overlooking the Sainte-Dévote valley could face demolition under a proposed redevelopment scheme, raising concerns among Monaco’s elected representatives about the preservation of the Principality’s architectural heritage.
Villa Montjoie and Villa Colombe, located at 3 and 5 Avenue d’Ostende, date from 1892 and 1863 respectively. The government has proposed removing both properties from the protected Sainte-Dévote sector to accommodate a private residential development.
The proposal forms part of the wider Jardins d’Ostende project, intended to introduce landscaped pedestrian routes, rooftop gardens and improved connections between different levels of Monaco. Additional plans include extending the Beau Rivage building by two storeys and creating a pedestrian link towards the Princess Grace Theatre.
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However, the proposed demolition prompted opposition during the Municipal Council’s extraordinary meeting on November 10. Mayor Georges Marsan questioned the justification for removing historic properties from a protected area, whilst mayoral candidate Marjorie Crovetto warned against sacrificing Monaco’s heritage and residents’ quality of life to further construction.
Councillor André Campana also criticised the architectural direction of the proposals and the influence of private developers. The council ultimately rejected the proposed boundary changes by a majority vote, leaving the future of both villas uncertain.
Source: Monaco-Matin
