Royals marrying other royals is a notion that goes back centuries. Hundreds of years ago, these marriages were primarily politically motivated and used to strengthen alliances between courts. In the 20th-century, however, it could be said that they are much more about a couple sharing common ground and perhaps a special understanding that few others can comprehend.
In 1971, Princess Maria Valguarnera di Niscemi of Palermo, Sicily and HIH Prince Alexander of Russia, a Romanoff and great-nephew of the last Czar, married after meeting in Paris. The couple settled in New York City, specifically in this incredible Upper East Side duplex. It listed this spring for $5.8 million, and has already gone into contract.
The two-level residence was in their hands for almost half a century, hosting many dignitaries and celebrities in its day, but the couple is no longer living now. The princess lived here until she passed away last year, and her friend is now selling their exquisite, 4,092-square-foot home in the sky.
It sits on the sixth floor of 1136 Fifth Avenue, a circa-1925 building designed by George F. Pelham Jr. and perched right at Central Park’s doorstep. While there are 43 apartments within the structure, this one is especially prized as Pelham crafted it to be his own. From the checkered marble flooring and 25-foot ceilings in the foyer to the intricate millwork and carvings throughout, the interiors have that Old New York je ne sais quoi that is nearly impossible to replicate. The mystery buyer in contract to own it next can also look forward to the spectacular Central Park views, two primary suites, two additional bedrooms, and white-glove co-op building amenities such as a live in Resident Manager and an elevator, manually operated by staff.
Eric Schwarzkopf of Compass represents the Carnegie Hill listing.
