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At the end of the 19th century many new villas sprang up in Beaulieu. A law voted on 23 July 1891 made Beaulieu independent of Villefranche-sur-Mer and Hyppolite Marinoni became the first mayor of the commune. A Parisian, owner of the famous "Petit Journal", this disinterested philanthropist who had fallen under the spell of the site gave up his office a few days later.
On 1 April 1899 the foundation stone of the new church dedicated to the Sacred Heart was laid. The old chapel of Sancta Maria de Olivio had become too small for the increasing number of winter residents. The new church was built with the financial support of Hyppolite Marinoni and the foreign colony in Beaulieu, then composed of English, Russian and German visitors.
In 1901 the first trams appeared, running between Monte-Carlo and Nice. Beaulieu prospered, and the royal families of Europe met for balls and receptions, firework displays and regattas.
In 1913 Beaulieu’s first Battle of Flowers took place, above the gardens of the Baie des Fourmis. This gave rise to a friendly struggle between the leading families and luxury hotels of the town, all striving to win first prize for the best-decorated automobile or carriage.
Today Beaulieu still retains its former peacefulness and charm, thanks to its varied architecture and protected landscape. Its motto, Peace in Beauty, is more appropriate than ever!
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