Villa Guardamangia is getting some much-needed TLC it deserves! The signing of the transfer of the villa was held yesterday with an investment of €5 million, meaning the property has become an integral part of the islands’ national collection.

The villa, primarily known to be the then-Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip’s home while living in Malta, is a Grade 2 scheduled building with immense architectural and historical value. And to keep it in ship-shape, Heritage Malta will be starting an extensive process of restoration.

The restoration will see new life being given to the 18 rooms, stables, large garden, wells and an underground shelter and will eventually be enjoyed by the public.

Villa Guardamangia’s history

Villa Guardamangia saw a number of upper-class families through time, with families in the Knights period venturing out of the fortified cities and constructing summer residence in suburbs. A few centuries later between 1949 and 1951, newlyweds Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip (Duke of Edinburgh) took residence in the villa while the Duke was serving in the Royal Navy.

Villa Guardamangia is also renowned for being the Royal family’s only residence outside of the UK. The property was actually acquired in 1929 by Earl Mountbatten of Burma, uncle to Prince Philip. It is said that he went on to leave the property to Her Majesty and her husband.

According to the Queen herself, the time she spent living in this villa was the happiest in her life. It was a beautiful villa with gorgeous grounds and interiors, fit for a queen - literally! And it will be once more when the restoration works are finished.