The Heritage Tree Trail

The Principality of Monaco is the second smallest independent state in the world. Covering an area of 2 km², gardens and parks occupy 450,000 m², or more than 20% of the territory.

The Jardin Exotique, the Princess Grace Rose Garden, the Jardins de la Petite Afrique, the Jardins Saint Martin and the Japanese Garden are among the best known, but Monaco also has many other public and private green spaces.

This "Green Heritage" must be protected, and a number of initiatives have been launched to enhance its preservation.
A "Tree Code" was drawn up in 2011. This document has also made it possible to classify certain plants as "remarkable" trees.
Following this classification, the Heritage Tree Trail was created in 2013. It presents a selection of the most remarkable plants located in the eastern part of the Principality (Monte-Carlo district, Larvotto).

What is a Heritage Tree?

Monaco's heritage trees are identified on the basis of three criteria:

• Biological : Based on the calculation of the tree's circumference, taking into account the life expectancy of the oldest species, with the exception of Arecaceae (palms), which work the other way round and are calculated on the basis of the height of the trunk;
• Botanical : Depending on the rarity of the species and its presence in the area;
• Social/Environmental: depending on the origin and history of the tree and the role it plays in representing a site.
  More than a thousand trees have been awarded heritage tree status. They are all identified, marked and marked with a plaque containing a range of information. Special measures have been put in place, particularly with regard to treatment and possible relocation.

The Monaco Heritage Tree Trail is part of the "Monaco commits to fighting deforestation" initiative, in which several Monegasque entities and companies are taking part.

The trail has now been extended to include plants located to the west of the Principality (Monaco-Ville, Fontvieille). This "New Heritage Tree Trail" features the Principality's 92 most remarkable specimens.