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Day: 25 November 2024

Mareterra: Monaco’s groundbreaking six-hectare waterfront district to be inaugurated on 4th December

by: Cassandra Tanti
25/11/2024

Monaco’s most ambitious land reclamation project, Mareterra, will be inaugurated on 4th December 2024 by Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene. The €2 billion eco-district, featuring luxury residences, a marina, and public green spaces, opens to the public the following day.

The highly anticipated Mareterra district, a stunning six-hectare addition to Monaco’s coastline, is set for its official inauguration on 4th December by Monaco’s Princely couple, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene. The monumental project, which began in 2013 and has cost €2 billion, is an extraordinary feat of engineering and urban planning, completed six months ahead of schedule.

Since construction barriers were removed near the Louis II Tunnel and the Fairmont Hotel, residents and visitors alike have been captivated by the district’s striking features. Among them is the 16-berth marina and the distinctive Renzo building, named after its world-renowned architect, Renzo Piano. While these elements are already visible, much of the work behind Mareterra’s transformation occurred out of public view, involving over 3,500 workers putting the finishing touches on what is set to become a jewel in Monaco’s urban landscape.

Opening to the public on 5th December

From 5th December, Mareterra will welcome the public, inviting visitors to stroll along its 500-metre coastal promenade or relax amidst its lush green spaces, planted with 1,000 mature trees. The district’s public amenities include 12 shops and restaurants, such as 99 Sushi Bar and Marco, an English-style restaurant, as well as a Grimaldi Forum extension, and 160 parking spaces.

On the private side, Mareterra boasts 110 apartments, 10 ultra-luxurious villas, and four townhouses. These exclusive residences, ranging from 400 square metres to over 2,000 square metres, have been sold discreetly to affluent European families. While precise figures remain confidential, the properties are expected to command some of the highest prices per square metre globally.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

Main photo of Mareterra, Monaco’s new district on reclaimed land, by Cassandra Tanti

 

Wannenes to present a trilogy of luxury auctions in Monaco

by: Stephanie Horsman
25/11/2024

On December 1st, the grand Hôtel Métropole in Monte-Carlo will host a trio of exceptional auctions by Wannenes including rare watches, exquisite jewellery, and luxury handbags. Each auction offers an exclusive chance for collectors and enthusiasts to acquire iconic items of timeless elegance and value, including exclusive pieces by Italian film legend Anna Kanakis.

Pre-sales exhibitions of all three collections will be taking place on 29th and 30th November at the Hotel Metropole, with the auction scheduled for 1st December.

At the heart of the event is the exquisite jewellery collection of Anna Kanakis, the beloved Italian cinema and fashion icon. Comprising 70 lots, the collection is going under the gavel one year after her death. The proceeds will be donated by her husband, Marco Merati Foscarini, to support the Veronesi Foundation for scientific research and the Italian Lymphoma Foundation.

Highlights include a pair of platinum and diamond drop earrings by Bvlgari, circa the 1960s, estimated at €120,000–150,000, and a significant Petochi ring featuring an octagonalcut Colombian emerald weighing approximately 18 cts, SSEF-certified with minor oiling, estimated at €150,000–180,000.

LUXE HANDBAGS

The event also features a sale of luxury bags and accessories, an unmissable opportunity for collectors and fashion enthusiasts. Highlighting the catalogue are exceptional Hermès creations, including the Kelly 20 II Special Edition 2021, a Rouge de Coeur and Rose Extreme beauty estimated at €17,000–€22,000, and a 2023 Kelly 20 II in classic Gold Epsom calfskin, similarly valued. 

Also notable is the Birkin 35 in Togo calfskin, adorned in a serene Tourterelle gray with silver-tone hardware, estimated at €8,000–€10,000. Each item reflects the timeless elegance and masterful craftsmanship synonymous with Hermès, making this auction an essential event for those seeking iconic pieces.

TIMEPIECES, TOO

Completing the offerings is a showcase of fine watches, appealing to horology experts and aficionados alike. Among the highlights is a Rolex Cosmograph Daytona “Big Red” crafted in stainless steel from 1980. Coveted for its distinctive “Big Red” dial, this model carries an estimate of €35,000–€55,000. Also on offer is an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Day-Date in yellow gold from 1990, valued at €23,000–€27,000. Another standout is the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo in stainless steel, a 1993 masterpiece estimated at €55,000–€75,000. These timepieces underscore the enduring appeal of haute horology.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.