Monaco’s Innovative Six-Hectare Waterfront District Set for December 4th Inauguration

 

Mareterra, Monaco's most ambitious land reclamation project, will be inaugurated on December 4, 2024, by Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene. This €2 billion eco-district, complete with luxury residences, a marina, and public green spaces, will welcome the public starting December 5.

The eagerly awaited Mareterra district, a breathtaking six-hectare extension of Monaco’s coastline, will be officially inaugurated on December 4 by Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene. This monumental €2 billion project, launched in 2013, stands as a remarkable achievement in engineering and urban design, delivered six months ahead of schedule.

With the removal of construction barriers near the Louis II Tunnel and the Fairmont Hotel, residents and visitors have been drawn to Mareterra's striking features.

Highlights include the 16-berth marina and the iconic Renzo building, designed by famed architect Renzo Piano. While these visible landmarks are impressive, much of the district's transformation happened behind the scenes. Over 3,500 workers dedicated their efforts to completing this remarkable project, poised to become a crown jewel in Monaco's urban landscape.

Starting December 5, the Mareterra district will be open to the public, offering a 500-meter coastal promenade for leisurely strolls and lush green spaces featuring 1,000 mature trees. The district also boasts 12 shops and restaurants, an extension of the Grimaldi Forum, and 160 parking spaces, ensuring a welcoming and accessible experience for all visitors.

A First for HIV Testing in France

 

Taking an AIDS screening test in a pharmacy is now possible in the Cote d’Azur.

Six pharmacies in the French region bordering Monaco have been chosen to take part in a pilot national program offering rapid and anonymous HIV screening tests. These tests are free of charge and deliver results quickly for those seeking them.

Located in Menton, Cap d’Ail, and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, these six pharmacies are the first in France to provide this confidential and fast HIV testing service.

Launched by the French government in October, the initiative serves as a pilot program expected to pave the way for a future nationwide implementation.

“The project will initially be deployed on an experimental basis in certain areas of the Alpes-Maritimes, before a potential extension to other territories, less equipped with medical resources, depending on the results,” says a representative for Objectif Sida Zéro, a Nice-based association that supports people in the region living with HIV and AIDS. “This new lever for action will bring the region even closer to the ambitious objective of ending the transmission of HIV.”

The tests are available anonymously to anyone, require no prescription, and are provided free of charge.

Monaco Grand Prix Confirmed Through 2031

 

Formula 1 has officially extended its agreement with the Monaco Grand Prix, securing the iconic race on the F1 calendar through 2031. This new deal builds on the previous contract set to expire in 2025, adding six more years to Monaco's celebrated presence in the sport.

The Monaco Grand Prix, a cornerstone of the F1 World Championship since its debut in 1950, has been a permanent fixture on the calendar since 1955.

Next year, the event will mark its 75th anniversary from May 23-25, before transitioning to a new permanent date in the first weekend of June starting in 2026.

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, shared his excitement about the contract renewal, stating, "I am thrilled that Formula One will continue to race in Monaco until 2031. The streets of Monaco are unique and an integral part of Formula One. This Grand Prix is a race that every driver dreams of competing in."

The future of the Monaco Grand Prix had been uncertain due to challenges surrounding the event's sustainability. These included the crowded race calendar, which features 24 races this year, as well as financial concerns. Monaco's distinctive urban setting limits audience capacity, and the city’s financial contribution to hosting the race is relatively modest, although it does attract an international audience well before and after the Grand Prix  with events surrounding the race happening both day and night.

Celebrating Monaco's National Day

 

Monaco’s iconic red and white colors are more prominent than ever as the Principality prepares for its National Day celebrations. This year, the festive decorations extend to new locations, spreading patriotic pride across the Principality.

 

The streets are being transformed for the annual event on November 19th. Spearheaded by the Events Division of the Municipal Technical Services, dedicated teams have been working since November 4th to adorn the city with pavilions, banners, and Monegasque flags. The effort ensures that Monaco’s national colors shine brightly in every corner of the Principality.

Each year, the Mairie expands its efforts to bring the celebrations to all districts. In 2024, this includes an impressive display of approximately 600 pennants, 550 flags, and 90 pavilions across 150 installations. This large-scale operation requires both day and night crews: day teams handle flag installations, while night crews manage the more complex setups.

Traditionally, Monaco’s National Day aligns with the feast day of the reigning Prince's namesake saint. However, Prince Albert II chose to honor his late father, Prince Rainier III, by keeping the celebration on November 19th, marking a meaningful tribute to his legacy.

While the main Monaco National Day celebrations take place on November 19, some exciting events have been planned for a day earlier. Here’s what’s planned so you can make the most of the festivities: 

Monday, November 18 

          20:00 - Drone Light Show over Port of Monaco. Watch as 800 drones illuminate the night sky from a secure, sound-buffered viewing area along Albert I quay. 

          21:00 - Nicoletta & Gospel Choir Concert. Enjoy the powerful voice of Nicoletta accompanied by her gospel choir in an uplifting concert, open to audiences aged 10 and above. 

Tuesday, November 19

           09:00 - National Day at Condamine Market. The Marché de la Condamine comes alive with tastings of local specialties and a vibrant atmosphere. Festivities continue into the evening, with live musical entertainment starting at 19:30. 

           11:40 - Military Parade at Place du Palais. Don’t miss the impressive military parade, a National Day highlight worth attending. 

           12:00 - Giant Fish Display at Place d’Armes. Marvel at the spectacular fish display and indulge in delicious food—no reservations required. 

           18:00 - Liane Foly Concert at Espace Léo Ferré. Wrap up the celebrations with a captivating performance by the renowned Liane Foly, as she sings her greatest hits in an unforgettable evening.  

 

Monaco National Day is a time for everyone to come together and celebrate the Principality with joy and pride.