Guided Tours of the Mareterra District in the Principality of Monaco

It is called an “immersive walk through the public spaces of Mareterra” and is presented as an unmissable opportunity, both to explore the project and to learn about its history and the landscaping choices that have shaped this new neighborhood. A neighborhood that has sparked mixed opinions: controversial for some, while bold for others. Mareterra, mainly composed of buildings (including the famous Renzo), small buildings, and villas, is set in a context dominated by concrete (chosen for being among the least polluting), but it is decorated with around 800 trees and 35,000 plants spread over 9,400 m² of public green spaces. However, as we know, nature needs time to adapt to new environments, so for now, the greenery is struggling to emerge from the white pavement and pure concrete, interrupted by fountains, including five basins and a path that stretches from the hilltop to Larvotto.

Moreover, Mareterra has absorbed part of the oldest Japanese Garden, losing some of its vegetation in favor of a new pagoda. Yet, despite the numbers, what stands out when viewing Mareterra from a distance are mostly the stunning architectural feats of the buildings, one of which closely resembles the structure housing the Aquarium of Genoa.

However, as reported in a press release by the Government of Monaco, this new neighborhood is not limited to aesthetics, as it hides innovative solutions with a sustainable approach. Among these are a basin for collecting rainwater used to irrigate the green spaces and a stormwater collection system aimed at reducing discharges into the sea. The most interesting areas to discover include the “Blue Cave,” which offers a unique view of a “Jarlan caisson” and its role as a breakwater, and the “Meditation Zone,” a room whose walls are covered in colored stones, quartz, glass, and metal, designed to invite contemplation as the sound of the sea waves can be heard just a few steps away.

This walk, organized by the Department of Urban Development of Monaco, offers participants the chance to discuss with the guide the working methods used, the challenges faced, and to learn what goes on behind the scenes of this ambitious project, which has generated at least 200 million euros in VAT for the Monegasque Government. It is, therefore, a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the foundations of Mareterra, understand the know-how behind the creation of this new space in the Principality, and realize how many of the seemingly contradictory stylistic choices are actually strategic decisions. Currently, four appointments are scheduled (February 26, March 5, March 12, and March 19) to visit and explore the Mareterra neighborhood, all at 2:00 PM at Place Princesse Gabriella, in front of the “Quatre Lances” sculpture by Alexandre Calder. No reservation is required, as the event is open to all for free.