Revitalizing Tradition: Monaco’s La Condamine Market Set for a Modern Makeover

 

One thing for certain about Monaco is, although they value history, they are also not afraid of change.

Monaco's historic La Condamine Market, a cherished hub for locals and visitors alike, is set to undergo a significant transformation aimed at modernizing its facilities while preserving its unique character. This ambitious project reflects Monaco's commitment to blending tradition with innovation, ensuring the market remains a vibrant centerpiece of the community.

Project Overview

Scheduled to commence in January 2026, the restructuring of La Condamine Market is anticipated to span approximately 13 months, with completion targeted for early 2027. This initiative marks the third major overhaul of the market, following previous renovations in 1992 and 2012.

Objectives and Enhancements

The primary goals of the renovation include:

• Modernization: Upgrading the market's infrastructure to meet contemporary standards, addressing outdated electrical systems, and enhancing overall functionality.

• Sustainability: Incorporating environmentally responsible features such as solar panels, a modern glass roof, and the use of eco-friendly materials to achieve low energy consumption. The project aims for a Silver BD2M (Bâtiments Durables Méditerranéens de Monaco) certification, reflecting Monaco's dedication to sustainable development.

• Improved Visitor Experience: Expanding seating capacity from 160 to 300 by introducing two mezzanines and removing central islands to enhance pedestrian flow. The redesign will also focus on temperature control, acoustics, and the addition of accessible facilities to ensure a comfortable environment for all visitors.

  
  Community Involvement
  

  Recognizing the market's role as a social hub, the project emphasizes community engagement:
  

• Trader Consultations: Starting in June 2025, individual meetings between traders and Mayor Georges Marsan will address future plans within the renewed space. Concession extensions from three to seven years post-renovation aim to provide business stability.

• Public Feedback: Regular customers will have the opportunity to share their opinions through forms available at the market, ensuring the redesign aligns with community needs.

Operational Continuity During Renovation

To maintain the market's vibrancy during construction:

• Temporary Relocation: Approximately twenty traders will move to individual chalets in the market square, reminiscent of the festive Christmas Village setup, ensuring business continuity.

• Customer Accommodation: Temporary solutions will be implemented to comfortably seat 150 to 200 patrons, preserving the market's convivial atmosphere throughout the renovation period.
  

Financial Commitment

The comprehensive project carries a budget of €10–12 million, entirely self-financed by the municipality. This substantial investment underscores Monaco's dedication to modernizing its urban landscape while safeguarding the market's unique identity—a symbol of tradition and community resilience.

Architectural Vision

Architect Jérôme Hein leads the project, aiming to transform the market while respecting Monaco's identity. The interior design will feature noble materials such as wood and ceramics, large bay windows for maximum natural light, and well-designed lighting to create a warm atmosphere.

As construction progresses, La Condamine Market is poised to meet stringent technical and regulatory demands, such as critical fire safety standards, while elevating the everyday experience for locals and visitors alike.

This transformation stands as a testament to Monaco's relentless drive for improvement, marrying the rich tapestry of its past with a vibrant, sustainable future.

Image sources: Jerome Hein, The A Group

Historic Hollywood-Style Villa in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Hits the Market

 

The Côte d’Azur is home to a stunning collection of unique properties, each with its own fascinating history.

One of the most sought-after locations for such properties is the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula, where a remarkable villa has just hit the market.

Built over 50 years ago at the southeastern tip of the peninsula, this was the first Hollywood-style villa in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. It was commissioned by American film director Otto Preminger, best known for Exodus, and is now available for €60 million—offering a rare opportunity to own a piece of cinematic history.

In 1972, fresh off his latest film, Preminger spent time at a friend's villa in the area and fell in love with a nearly 7,000 m² plot of land. He envisioned building his dream home there. However, the project quickly stirred controversy. His neighbor, whose property, Villa L’Osstau, bordered the site, filed a complaint for "environmental damage" after Preminger cleared the land of its vegetation to begin construction.

The dispute escalated, drawing the attention of Francis Palmero, president of the General Council, and eventually the Alpes-Maritimes prefect. Since the peninsula was a protected site, strict building regulations required the preservation of green spaces.

However, the official investigation concluded that the area in question consisted mainly of maquis shrubland, with little ecological significance, except for a single tall tree that was preserved.

With the dispute settled, construction resumed, and Preminger moved in two years later, joining the ranks of Hollywood legends such as Gregory Peck, David Niven, and Rex Harrison, who frequented the peninsula.

The villa’s avant-garde architecture—featuring expansive glass facades—was strikingly modern for its time, drawing both admiration and criticism as traditionalists felt it clashed with the region's established neo-Provençal aesthetic, a style dominant since the 1920s.

Today, five decades later, contemporary design has become a defining feature of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat’s luxury real estate landscape. The villa, recently redecorated by renowned designer Philippe Starck, spans nearly 900 m², boasting six bedrooms, eight bathrooms, and a spectacular sea-facing swimming pool.

For more information on this exclusive property, contact Experience The French Riviera.

LGBTQ Rights in Monaco: Ongoing Challenges and Inequalities

 

Monaco ranks among the lowest 6% of European countries in terms of basic rights and freedoms granted to LGBTQ individuals.

While homosexuality appears to be socially accepted in the Principality of Monaco, some individuals hesitate to be openly visible in the Principality. "There are only about a dozen registrations to attend this discussion; people are afraid to be out of the closet in Monaco, especially in professional settings," said Véronique de Millo Terrazzani at the start of her discussion event.

The president of the Union of Monegasque Women organized a panel this past Tuesday, featuring National Councillor and LGBTQ rights rapporteur to the Council of Europe Béatrice Fresko-Rolfo, and the LGBTQ association "Mon'arc en Ciel",and Marina Ceyssac, High Commissioner for the Protection of Rights and Mediation. The two-hour discussion focused on the legal and social challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals in Monaco.

"In the Principality, LGBTQ individuals do not have equal rights regarding inheritance, survivor's pensions, or parental leave. This is the unfortunate reality of Monaco," lamented Béatrice Fresko-Rolfo. "Mon'arc en Ciel" presented anonymous testimonies illustrating the difficulties faced by LGBTQ people in the country.

One pressing issue is survivor's pensions, which have changed since Monaco took over additional pension funds for Monegasque employees. "Brigitte has been married to Aurore for over ten years. Brigitte recently retired after working her entire career in Monaco. If Brigitte were to pass away, Aurore would not be entitled to her survivor's pension," explained Anaïs from "Mon'arc en Ciel."

The High Commissioner acknowledged this concern, citing multiple cases brought to her office. "In June 2024, we issued a recommendation to the government referencing the European Convention on Human Rights and the case law of the European Court of Human Rights."

With Monaco's complementary pension funds applying local laws that do not recognize same-sex marriages, previously granted rights for LGBTQ individuals are no longer valid. Marina Ceyssac noted the constructive stance of authorities but warned, "If cases were taken to the European Court of Human Rights, Monaco risks condemnation."

This inconsistency is evident in various legal matters. "In some instances, Monaco recognizes same-sex marriages contracted abroad, such as when considering a spouse's income for benefits. However, when it comes to granting rights, these marriages are disregarded."

Another example was highlighted: "Julia and Christelle recently had a child. Both work in Monaco, but Christelle, the non-biological mother, was denied paternity leave by the CCSS, even though both incomes are considered for other matters."

Ceyssac suggested amending terminology in legal texts. "We proposed replacing 'father' and 'mother' with 'parents' to ensure equal parental leave. Unfortunately, this was not retained in legislative discussions."

The issue extends to child custody in case of a parent's death, even when same-sex couples are legally married abroad. "Stéphanie and Maria have a child. Stéphanie is the biological mother. If she were to pass away, Maria would have no legal rights to custody," shared a "Mon'arc en Ciel" volunteer.

"During discussions on the adoption bill, we advocated for allowing same-sex parents to adopt their partner's child. However, bureaucratic obstacles prevented progress despite the National Council's willingness," added Béatrice Fresko-Rolfo.

The High Commissioner suggested that Monaco could align with European standards to grant parental rights through judicial means. A concerned attendee shared their experience: "My ex-partner and I arranged a future protection mandate for our daughter with a notary. If my ex-partner were to pass away, I would be recognized as the legal guardian until she turns 18. However, this protection is fragile and can be unilaterally revoked. It should be enshrined in law."

Another significant challenge is nationality rights for children in same-sex families. "Laura, a Monegasque citizen, and Lisa, a French national, live in Monaco with their two children, Nathan and Alice. Laura is Nathan's biological mother, while Lisa is Alice's. Nathan is Monegasque, but Alice is not. Nathan struggles to understand why his sister cannot access the same rights and privileges, such as attending official state events."

Marina Ceyssac acknowledged the legal complexity of this issue: "In theory, solutions exist, but in practice, Monaco's civil and nationality laws must be considered. This disparity affects not just childhood but also future challenges regarding housing, taxation, and social benefits."

The discussion underscored the urgent need for legislative reform to ensure equal rights and protections for LGBTQ individuals and their families in Monaco.

Cannes Honored for Commitment to HIV/AIDS Fight

 

Cannes has been honored for its dedication to HIV/AIDS prevention, testing, and support services, receiving the prestigious Ville Engagée Contre le SIDA (City Committed Against AIDS) label. This recognition highlights the city's sustained efforts in raising awareness, providing accessible testing, and supporting those affected by the virus.

As part of this acknowledgment, Mayor David Lisnard awarded Dr. Paul Simonet the city's gold medal for his tireless advocacy in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Dr. Simonet has played a crucial role in advancing local healthcare initiatives, ensuring that individuals receive the necessary resources and support.

Brought about by several essential actions carried out by the city and supports local communities in their efforts to combat HIV/AIDS, viral hepatitis and the risks linked to addictions.

Here are the main actions:

First of all, the town hall strengthens the initiatives to raise awareness of HIV prevention, by putting particular emphasis on young people. It also facilitates access to free and fast screening for everyone. In addition, support is ensured for HIV positive people throughout their journey. Finally, the town hall promotes close collaboration with local and associative partners for a collective and effective response to this public health issue.

“Each year in France, five to six thousand people are diagnosed with HIV. On a municipal level, we deploy concrete actions to prevent transmission, support patients and strengthen awareness among everyone. It is a permanent fight.

The delivery of the label "City engaged against AIDS" symbolizes the solidarity of Cannes in the fight against an epidemic which, despite progress, remains a painful reality for many people. I thank Jean-Luc Romero-Michel, for the pioneer action and determination for this cause, of his presence and this labeling.

In this context, it is essential to underline the unfailing commitment of those who work for the fight against this infectious disease. Paul Simonet, a key figure in the management of HIV patients, has devoted his life to this cause, both by his political involvement and his major role in the awareness of elected officials. Also, I have the honor to give him the gold medal from the city of Cannes, symbol of our gratitude.”
David Lisnard, Mayor of Cannes

Cannes remains steadfast in its commitment to public health, with ongoing campaigns to educate the community, reduce stigma, and encourage early detection through free and accessible testing programs. This recognition further solidifies the city's position as a leader in HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention efforts in France.