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Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: a UNESCO World Heritage site?

Located at the foot of the Alps, on the Côte d'Azur, the peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a jewel of the Mediterranean coast. An exceptional site just waiting to be known and recognised internationally. This recognition could quickly become a reality: the peninsula is a candidate for listing as an official UNESCO World Heritage site. An application that involves three states and a large area named as "the Mediterranean Alps" for the occasion.

UNESCO's recognition of the Riviera


This desire of recognition is shared by France, Italy and Monaco. The territory concerned (approximately 200 000 hectares) is divided into eight zones each containing geological and environmental specific characteristics. Among these boundaries is a particular part of the Mercantour park, Natura 2000 sites in France and Italy, as well as Cap Ferrat and its marine areas that are also designated Natura 2000 sites. 

The objective of this recognition by UNESCO is to highlight a region that has rich geology and is easily accessible to the scientific community. The official recognition can also help develop scientific tourism and promote this natural heritage to the general public. During September 2018, UNESCO experts visited the various areas presented in order to evaluate them for possible inscription. These assessments that were carried out were regarding geological criteria and the results will be shared later.
 Cannes
- Port de Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

The exceptional natural sites of the Côte d'Azur


The geographical situation, shared between sea and mountains, is unique. The amplitude of the relief in this territory is remarkable. The highest point is a glacier at an altitude of about 3,300 m, while 70 km to the south in the Mediterranean Sea is the lowest point at an abyssal depth of 2,500 m. Many geological strata and ancient rocks, which testify the past of the region, emerge in these different zones. 

Cap Ferrat, on the Côte d'Azur, contains areas of geological interest at sea and on the coast that UNESCO experts have observed with attention. In particular, they visited some remarkable local sites such as Pointe Saint-Hospice, the coastline, as well as a large part of the coast around Cap Ferrat. The municipalities of Villefranche-sur-Mer, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and Beaulieu-sur-Mer are, therefore, positively affected by this attractivity. 

A tourism boost for Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat


This spotlight on the region should be beneficial to the local tourist economy. Renowned for its magnificent villas and their breathtaking sea views, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat will become more and more attractive thanks to the UNESCO World Heritage, especially for real estate investors. This international recognition will be another attraction for investors wishing to buy a villa or apartment on the famous Côte d'Azur, thus revitalizing the luxury real estate market. 


Moreover, the possible UNESCO listing will certainly help to boost tourism for Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. The hotels and restaurants sectors, as well as local traders, stand to benefit from the prestige, although tourism is already well established.
Finally, a UNESCO World Heritage ranking of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat will above all preserve and transmit a unique environment for future generations.

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