Affairs
Why Italy’s beaches became a battleground this summer
Italian beachgoers are experiencing spiralling fees and shrinking free sand. As debate rages, the question is whether the coastline is for the people – or for profit?
Opinion
Opinion
Opinion
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The Seine’s reopening to swimmers marks a watershed moment for Paris’s civic renewal
For the first time in more than a century, Parisians have been allowed to swim in the Seine. Three outdoor bathing areas opened to the public this weekend amid a searing heatwave, though authorities…
What we gain and lose with the rise of sky gardens
Although green spaces are always a welcome addition to urban landscapes, vertical lawns can never replace real parks in the heart of cities.
All eyes are on Corsica, as a vote on its greater autonomy – or even full independence – from Paris approaches
As a vote on the issue of autonomy in Corsica approaches, some are demanding that self-ruling local powers be written into the island territory’s constitution.
How to tap nature’s chilling effect for a sustainable way to cool urban areas
The hum of power-hungry air conditioners has become the soundtrack of summer in the hottest cities. The architect behind a Gold Lion-winning pavilion at Venice Biennale shares a possible solution.
Seville, the ‘frying pan of Europe’, holds the secrets to managing the blistering summer heat
As temperatures continue to soar, heatwaves have become a Spanish tradition. The city of Seville is drawing on both ancient knowledge and cutting-edge science to keep its citizens cool.
Hydra’s storied past, future and present: What we learned from our sit-down with George Koukoudakis
The mayor of the Greek island spoke to Monocle about the city’s challenges, from short-term rentals and housing to climate change.
Genoa’s comeback as a hub of vision and renewal
Once a cultural and economic powerhouse, the port city spent decades in the shadow of better-connected cities such as Milan. But it is now undergoing a rebirth, thanks to visionary locals and fresh talent.
Could Europe be about to benefit from Trump’s US brain drain?
Amid Donald Trump’s cuts to federal institutions and grants, more US-based scientists are considering jumping ship – and Europe will be waiting with open arms.
‘Thai politics is deadlocked by design’: Pita Limjaroenrat on Thailand’s leadership crisis
As thousands call for Paetongtarn Shinawatra to step down, Thailand’s ‘almost prime minister’ tells us what should be done differently in a nation where the military has ensured its enduring influence over governmental appointments.
