7 months ago 58

Inside the Most Expensive Property in the World

Here at Elite Traveler, we have become so well-versed in the world of luxury and sky-high prices that it takes a lot to take us by surprise. How much exactly? Well today, it's $452m.

We have featured many a mansion, chateau and country estate. But this may be the first property that seems to encompass all three – and then some more.

Château d’Armainvilliers hardly needs an introduction, since its title as the most expensive property for sale in the world is certainly enough to pique some interest.

Going from the long list of former owners, we are far from the only ones to be captured by this grand property, found just outside of Paris. Château d’Armainvilliers previously belonged to the Rothschild family as well as being the former home of King Hassan II of Morocco.

Château d’Armainvilliers dates to the 12th century when it was originally used as a stronghold. When it was partially destroyed in the French Revolution, it was not until 1877 that it was purchased and restored by Edmond de Rothschild, who replaced the castle with a chateau.

It was during these renovations that the grounds of the property grew quite considerably to reach the 2,500 acres that the estate sits on today (that’s three times as big as New York’s Central Park).

The last time Château d’Armainvilliers changed hands was in 2008, when, following the death of King Hassan II in 1999, his son sold the estate for €200m to an unnamed owner from the Middle East.

Yet as eye-catching as that price tag and intriguing its story may be, don’t let it distract you from the Château d’Armainvilliers’ sprawling grounds or fine interiors.

Since the chateau boasts 100 rooms that are spread across three floors – including five salons, 17 themed bedroom suites and state-of-the-art kitchen facilities – this article would become rather long if we detailed each.

Not to mention the plethora of amenities found across the estate, such as a hairdressing salon, a hammam, a private car park, stables for 50 horses, housing for staff members and 36 various parkland buildings.

Château d’Armainvilliers’ centuries of history are made quite clear from its interiors. Said to have been guided by royal architect Michel Pinseau during King Hassan II's ownership, Château d’Armainvilliers blends luxurious amenities, lavish details and Moroccan interiors.

Should Château d’Armainvillier receive its asking price – or quite frankly anything near it – it will overtake Chateau Louis XIV, which currently holds the record for the world’s most expensive property when it was sold for more than €275m (approx. $300m) back in 2015.

Château d’Armainvillier is listed for €425m ($452m) with Ignace Meuwissen and Whisper Auctions.

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