Le Méridien Beach Plaza celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Monegasque Association for the Protection of Nature
Running from 15 July to 15 October 2026, this retrospective immerses visitors in the history of the association and its many initiatives to promote marine biodiversity. Through a dialogue between archive photographs and contemporary images, it illustrates the evolution of the AMPN’s remit and its key role in protecting Monaco’s coastline.
The 50th anniversary of the Monegasque Association for the Protection of Nature
Founded at the request of Prince Rainier III so that the Principality of Monaco could make a significant contribution to the conservation of the Mediterranean, the Monegasque Association for the Protection of Nature is this year celebrating its fiftieth anniversary of commitment to Monegasque natural heritage.
Since 1976, it has managed the Larvotto Marine Protected Area, before extending its work to the Spélugues ten years later. These areas, which serve as veritable open-air laboratories, are now benchmarks for the conservation of marine biodiversity in the Mediterranean.
Over the decades, the AMPN has established itself as a key player in marine conservation through its programmes of scientific research, ecological restoration and the monitoring of species and habitats. It has also distinguished itself through its pioneering role in the design of artificial reefs, notably with the creation, in 2017, of the world’s first 3D-printed reefs.
Beyond its scientific work, the association carries out significant awareness-raising work among the general public and younger generations, convinced that knowledge remains one of the key drivers of ocean conservation.
A photographic retrospective at the heart of the Mediterranean
Conceived as a journey through fifty years of commitment, the exhibition is structured around six main themes – protecting, managing, restoring, studying, innovating and raising awareness – which trace the association’s various missions.
Archival images, contemporary photographs and iconic documents highlight the creation and management of Monaco’s Marine Protected Areas, scientific research programmes, ecological restoration projects, technological innovations and the numerous initiatives undertaken to promote awareness of and protect Monaco’s marine heritage. As they follow the exhibition route, visitors discover how science, innovation and knowledge-sharing have come together over the past fifty years to preserve a marine heritage of
exceptional richness.