10 Bed Property for sale
Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, Alpes-Maritimes, Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur, France
£17,018,097 *
[€20,500,000]
Full Description
Located in the heart of Roquebrune, just next to the fortress and facing Monaco and Cap Martin, we are offering for sale one of the real estate jewels of the Côte d'Azur. The property, originally built in the 13th century by a monastic order, has always been a landmark for the village throughout the years. Its magnificent buildings, situated adjacent to the house of the Principality's governor, were revitalized by the renowned American photographer Henry Clarke, who transformed l'Aumônerie into his private residence. During the golden era of the Côte d'Azur, Clarke and his partner Raymond Poteau made this house a famous social venue. Among its most illustrious guests, Princess Grace deserves an honorable mention. She affectionately referred to the garden of l'Aumônerie as the finest Mediterranean garden on the Côte d'Azur and featured it in her renowned “Book of Flowers”. Once you visit the park and interiors of this special place, it won’t be difficult to understand why the princess fell in love with it.
Interiors:
The property spans across different buildings, thereby creating a main house and an annex. Several entrances are located on the streets of the medieval town of Roquebrune, providing access to the various floors and the park.
The renovation works undertaken by Clarke have resulted in the creation of multiple rooms and bathrooms, as well as kitchens and living rooms, making it perfect to accommodate numerous guests. Over 20 people can be hosted simultaneously in this breathtaking location overlooking the seaside.
The interiors are furnished with pieces and decorations of significant historical value. Notably, the paintings in one of the master bedrooms, depicting five exotic birds symbolizing the continents of the Earth, date back to the 18th century. Additionally, doors and engravings in l'Aumônerie bear witness to the passage of centuries. Throughout the property, a sense of history has been meticulously maintained, creating an atmosphere that transcends time.
Gardens:
Certainly, l'Aumônerie is best known for its gardens. Descending from the fortress to the sea, this quaint yet astonishing park is a true hidden gem of the Côte d'Azur and was Princess Grace's favorite corner of paradise in Roquebrune. The first level of the garden unfolds in front of the houses, featuring its renowned column topped by the occult symbol of the triangle, perhaps a nod to Saint Augustine's triangle, symbolizing the relationship between partners and God. The garden then gently slopes down to the pool level, offering a breathtaking view of the seaside, nestled between Cap Martin and Monaco. Here, the sole specimen of the Jacaranda tree in Europe, originally from Madagascar, is undoubtedly the botanical treasure of the property.
In conclusion, we take pride in defining this property as one of the jewels of the Côte d'Azur. Furthermore, l'Aumônerie is well-suited for both premium residential clientele and as an investment property. Its significant historical relevance presents an opportunity to transform it into a sophisticated hospitality structure.
Location:
L'aumônerie is located in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. Its central position within the village is unique. The property is only accessible via a pleasant walk from the private garage. Additionally, the property boasts two private car parks within the historic city center of the village. Roquebrune is one of the most well-known towns on the Côte d'Azur, easily reachable from the international airport of Nice in less than an hour's drive. The Principality of Monaco is just a 10-minute drive away, while the Italian border is 30 minutes away. Within a 10-minute drive, you can also reach the seaside, where several renowned beaches await.
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