Luxurious London Apartment Hits Market with Rich History, Once Housed Parthenon Sculptures

A lavish London apartment with a fascinating past is up for grabs for a cool £26.25 million. Located at 149 Old Park Lane, the sprawling 5,085 square-foot residence boasts grandeur and historical significance.

A Storied Abode

This Grade II-listed property was once home to the Parthenon sculptures, also known as the Elgin Marbles, sculpted by Phidias between 447 BC and 432 BC. Lord Elgin, the British ambassador to the Ottoman Empire at the time, chiselled out the treasures from the Acropolis, took them back to Britain in 1806 and displayed them in residence, then known as Gloucester House. The ownership of these sculptures remains a contentious issue between the UK and Greece to this day.

The Elgin Marbles in Park Lane

Elgin was desperate to display the sculptures when they finally arrived in London and settled on Gloucester House in Park Lane near Piccadilly where in around 1806-1807 he had a special shed built to house the ravaged marbles.

The antiquarian Charles Robert Cockerell had visited Park Lane in 1810 and drew a sketch of the room which vividly depicted these eminent sculptures' fall from grace from the Acropolis monuments atop Athens to a dingy space in industrial-age London.

According to Elgin's companion, William Hamilton, the so-called "Park Lane Museum" consisted of a sort of central nave and two side aisles. 

The famous poet, Benjamin Robert Haydon, wrote of his first encounter with the sculptures during this period:

"To Park Lane then we went, and after passing through the hall and thence into an open yard, entered a damp, dirty pent-house where lay the marbles ranged within sight and reach"

The sculptures were eventually moved to Burlington House in 1811 for display before finally being deposited with the British Museum in 1816.

The old Gloucester House was demolished in the early 20th century, giving way to what is today being offered for sale. 

But the malevolent ghost of Lord Elgin still lingers.

Beyond the Marbles

The apartment's history extends far beyond the Parthenon sculptures. After Lord Elgin's acrimonious divorce, the residence housed various members of British royalty. In 1972, the ground floor became the first ever Hard Rock Cafe. More recently, the space was transformed into luxury apartments by Lord Sugar.

Modern Luxury Meets Old World Charm

The current offering boasts five bedrooms and five bathrooms, seamlessly blending traditional features like original fireplaces and oak flooring with modern amenities like underfloor heating, air conditioning, and smart home technology. High-end finishes include marble in the entrance hall, bespoke oak throughout the living areas, and luxurious wool carpets. The apartment also features a state-of-the-art kitchen with Gaggenau appliances, a separate staff kitchen, and a formal dining room.

Prime Location and Unparalleled Security

Situated in London's Mayfair district, the property offers easy access to world-class restaurants, shops, and exclusive private members' clubs. Residents will also enjoy the proximity of St. James's Park and Hyde Park. Security is paramount, with a dedicated staff entrance, 24-hour security, secure doors and windows, and a CCTV system.

A Rare Opportunity

This unique offering presents a rare opportunity to own a piece of London history in a prime location. With its rich heritage, luxurious amenities, and unparalleled security, 149 Old Park Lane is a dream residence for the discerning ultra-high-net-worth individual.

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