After years of anticipation, the wait is finally over. The mighty Mareterra, Monaco’s most ambitious land reclamation project and a benchmark for sustainable urban development, has been officially inaugrated by Prince Albert II. This eco-district isn’t just another development – it’s a transformative milestone that has expanded Monaco’s territory while boosting its appeal as a financial and environmental leader.
The Monaco government announced early 2013 that it was planning to extend Monaco’s territory with a bold new land reclamation project. It would be the most ambitious land grab to date in the Principality, beyond historical expansions such as La Condamine, Fontvieille and Larvotto. Two billion euros and over a decade later, the incredible Mareterra was presented to the press and VIPs on Wednesday 4th December, six months ahead of schedule. The project’s visionary, Prince Albert II, officially inaugurated the new district, which is located in the east of the Principality. Together with his wife Princess Charlene and their children, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, they welcomed the territory during a special blessing ceremony with Bishop Dominique-Marie Jean Michel David.
In his inauguration speech, Prince Albert II said, “In our world, which is particularly unstable and somewhat concerning, it is rare—indeed exceptional, even unique—that a state can increase its territory by 3% through the efforts of engineers and workers, rather than through the force of arms.”
Surrounded by government officials, architects, landscapers and future residents, Monaco’s sovereign continued, “This land reclamation project will, I hope, remain as a symbol, as it embodies my vision—one that I hope is shared by all—of a Principality that dares, that embraces boldness, that has a taste for risk, but that steers its destiny with wisdom and knows how to listen to the environment.”
A new place for residents and visitors to enjoy
For locals and visitors alike, Mareterra is a dream come true. Entirely pedestrianised, this new neighbourhood is a place to stroll along the sea, breathe in the fresh Mediterranean air and enjoy its many green spaces. Almost half of the six-hectare district is open to the public, with a one-hectare park, a 750-metre seaside promenade, winding pathways, a vibrant marina and 12 new retail and hospitality offerings.
There are also surprises dotted throughout: the Blue Grotto gives visitors the chance to observe underwater life that has flourished within the caissons that support the sea extension; the Mediterranean Space in the heart of the Prince Jacques Promenade is a remarkable introspective place of rest and contemplation filled with luminous quartz, designed by Vietnamese artist Tia-Thủy Nguyễn; and the Princess Gabriella Square features a beautifully restored masterpiece by Alexander Calder, creating a serene open-air museum and another tranquil space for contemplation.
The entire district is filled with 1,000 pine trees and oaks, and an abundance of shrubbery and plants which, once mature, will confirm Mareterra’s title as the greenest district in the Principality.
A true experiment for Monaco and the world
But this isn’t just a pretty new addition to Monaco. It’s a triumph of innovation and sustainability, designed to respond to modern challenges like rising sea levels.
In 2013, the State of Monaco established URBAMER (Mission Urbanisation en Mer) to oversee the daily progress of Mareterra’s construction. This dedicated body ensured that the project adhered to stringent environmental, technical and organisational standards throughout its development.
Prince Albert revealed that he personally monitored the project.
“It is important for me to emphasise that I personally monitored the execution of this project, visiting the site very regularly and asking my collaborators to keep me constantly informed,” he said in his speech. “For me, it was about ensuring that the work would meet our expectations, but also about being consistently attentive to the dedicated teams mobilised to achieve these technical feats. The collective effort has led to a final result of which I believe we can all be proud.”
Over 300 companies and up to 4,000 professionals collaborated on the project, showcasing exceptional European and global economic cooperation, particularly during the era of Covid.
Prioritising biodiversity and ecosystem preservation, Mareterra planners consulted marine biologists and other experts to protect local habitats, relocating key species and implementing measures to safeguard marine reserves. Historical pollution in the port was addressed through specialised sediment removal, and heritage species such as yellow gorgonian and red coral were preserved. The 18 submerged caissons were designed to promote marine life with features like grooves, cavities and artificial seagrass beds.
Mareterra’s planners also integrated energy-efficient buildings, solar panels and rainwater collection systems, making it a benchmark for sustainable development. Monaco’s government will continue monitoring the site and use insights from the project to establish a pioneering guide for future maritime developments.
Mareterra has earned numerous certifications, including BREEAM ‘Excellent’, recognising its commitment to biodiversity, eco-friendly practices and environmental management.
“This project, one of the most audacious of this century, embodies Monaco’s spirit of innovation and ambition. But it also marks a new beginning. This district will quickly become a major asset for the Principality, a renewed expression of its potential, and a new embodiment of its unique way of life,” Monaco’s Minister of Public Works, the Environment and Urban Development Céline Caron-Dagioni told gathered press Wednesday morning. “In a few decades, the technical and human challenges of this project may be forgotten, but the beauty and elegance of Mareterra will remain admired. It will stand as one of the great successes of HSH Prince Albert II’s reign and a source of pride for all of us.”
A major economic boost for Monaco
Mareterra represents not only a significant achievement in sustainable urban development but also a major boost to Monaco’s economic growth. This ambitious land extension introduces a range of new spaces designed to enhance the Principality’s appeal and generate long-term revenue.
Among Mareterra’s standout features is its mix of residential and commercial spaces. Over three hectares have been dedicated to private accommodations, including 110 modern apartments, 10 luxurious villas and four elegant townhouses, all designed to meet the demands of Monaco’s exclusive property market. These new homes are attracting high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth residents, further reinforcing the Principality’s reputation as a global hub for luxury living.
Valode & Pistre Architectes played a pivotal role in shaping Mareterra, overseeing the overall project plan and the design of its public infrastructure.
“In our buildings, we sought to create a contemporary architectural style that remains authentically Mediterranean. This involved incorporating solar protection features such as movable panels to regulate sunlight, large overhangs, and shaded balconies and terraces,” Denis Valode told Monaco Life. “Homes are designed around patios, embracing traditional Mediterranean principles while presenting a modern aesthetic. Mareterra is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, offering a unique, sustainable and accessible environment.”
Boutiques, bespoke goods and culture: Mareterra’s commercial appeal
Mareterra’s 4,000 square metres of commercial space, housing 12 boutique shops and restaurants, is set to become a vibrant retail destination that blends luxury with lifestyle. Strategically located around the marina, these boutiques will offer high-end fashion, jewellery and bespoke goods, catering to Monaco’s discerning clientele. The retail hub and restaurants not only enhance the district’s economic contribution but also adds to its appeal as a lifestyle hotspot, inviting residents and visitors to enjoy a sophisticated shopping experience amidst picturesque surroundings.
The Grimaldi Forum, a cornerstone of Monaco’s cultural and business events, has also been expanded by an additional 10,000 square metres. This enhancement ensures the venue can host larger events, contributing to the Principality’s thriving tourism and conference sectors.
These new assets are set to generate substantial income, complemented by the real estate VAT (20% on property sales) and registration fees paid to the Monegasque State.
A blueprint for sustainable urban development
Mareterra isn’t just Monaco’s newest neighbourhood—it’s a symbol of the Principality’s ambition, creativity and commitment to a sustainable future. It’s a statement. Monaco has grown, and so has its vision for what’s possible.
The hope is that Mareterra will set a new global standard, serving as a true case study for research and innovation, contributing to a future-proof vision for neighbourhoods and cities while strengthening the link between humans and the natural environment.
Stay tuned for more in-depth features as Monaco Life delves deeper into the innovative marvel that is Mareterra.
Explore the new Mareterra district in Cassandra Tanti’s video below…
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Main photo credit: Ed Wright for Mareterra