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In Potsdam sits a German villa with a unique sense of charm and opulence that reflects its status as one of the most important private residences in Germany. The neoclassical and baroque-inspired Villa Kampffmeyer, which is available for sale though Savills for €23 million (RM111 million), was built between 1923 and 1924 for entrepreneur Kurt Kampffmeyer. In the ensuing years, the villa was temporarily used during the Potsdam Conference in 1945, and became a symbol of German history when the wall between West and East Germany ran through its grounds. Cold war spies and political prisoners would spend a night in its basement before crossing the border. Villa Kampffmeyer has since played host to international dignitaries and royalty following German reunification. The 0.8-hectare grounds boast waterside landscaped gardens with century- old trees, while the meticulously renovated 1,394sqm property features exquisite silk wall coverings, antique stone fireplaces, rich woodwork and impeccable plasterwork.

While plans have been drafted for a private cinema and gym, there should be enough space to tide you over in the meantime, given the size of its monumental rooms. The villa houses a Great Hall, a library with an ornate coffered ceiling, a Bulthaup kitchen, a Blue Salon framed by rose gardens, a guest wing and a golden bathroom splendid enough to deliver the Midas touch. www.savills.com ¬

Villa Kampffmeyer has played host to international dignitaries and royalty.