The Queen’s former home is on the market

A property that the Queen and Prince Phillip once called home is up for sale on Rightmove for more than £5 million.

Villa Guardamangia, nestled on the outskirts of the Maltese capital of Valletta, is a Palazzo-style mansion which is the only place outside the UK that Queen Elizabeth II has ever called home.

Their royal highnesses lived at the property, which has since fallen into a state of disrepair, in the early years of their marriage – between 1949 and 1951. The Duke of Edinburgh was stationed in Malta as a naval officer at the time.

The Queen and her husband lived in the Grade II-listed villa before her coronation, which back then, was the rented home of Prince Philip’s uncle.

The residence still retains many regal features, however, such as the sweeping sea views over Marsamxett Harbour from its picture-perfect roof terrace as well as authentic architectural characteristics, including an imposing stone façade, an elaborate porch, arched entrance hall, original wide staircase, stone floors and various fire places.

Rightmove’s property expert Miles Shipside said: “This magnificent property is crying out for someone to restore it to its former glory; the place boasts such a rich history and has so much potential. But again, this listing highlights the incredible diversity of available homes on Rightmove. One day you could come across a Love Island villa, the next you might find a residence that the Queen once called home.”

The property is comprised of a lounge, dining room, living room and a kitchen as well as six bedrooms, three bathrooms, a grand ‘sala nobile’ (large function room), two garages and a sprawling garden.

The interior rooms are spacious and airy, with beautifully high ceilings. The main house is further complemented with stables, various guest quarters and cellars.

The property is listed for sale with Homes of Quality.