IT has a strong claim to the title of most romantic mansion in Scotland.

A Victorian manor where thousands of couples have taken their marriage vows and began life as one of Glasgow's most exclusive homes is going under the hammer for the princely sum of £2 million.

A former registry office, the mansion house in plush Park Circus boasts an extraordinary history which saw the building repurposed several times.

Built to order by a Victorian iron tycoon 140 years ago, it later became a club and then home to the Italian Consulate in Scotland.

But for the past 20 years the A-listed building became an exquisite location for Scots tying the knot in a civil ceremony. Divided into five wedding suites, hundreds if not thousands of marriages were sealed within its walls.

A spokeswoman for estate agent Rettie described the premises as a "truly unique building" and said it was an exceptional opportunity for the right buyer.

"I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything of this size and scale come up on the market in this part of Glasgow before,” she said.

The A-listed building was designed by the architect Charles Wilson, with lavish interiors by James Boucher, for Walter MacFarlane, founder of Saracen Foundry.

He grew immensely wealthy during producing thousands of ornate ironworks which were sold around the world via the trade connections of the British Empire.

At its peak, his factory was one of the foremost foundries in the world and employed renowned architects such as John Burnet and Alexander “Greek” Thomson to design it’s products.

MacFarlane’s wealth was reflected in his home, which extends to 12,000 sq ft over four floors and boasts period details such as striking iconic columns and a wide marble staircase leading to the main reception rooms on the first floor.

Elaborate forged metalwork is a feature throughout the home, commissioned by MacFarlane, as are carved wood ceilings and an Art Nouveau billiard room.

At the time it was built it was also furnished with a glass conservatory and a Turkish bath, although these have fallen into disuse.

The current owner of the property, which was restored in 1990, is hoping that it can once again be used as a family home, and several interested parties have arranged viewings.

Developers have approached the firm looking to turn the building into flats, but these schemes have been dashed as they would be very unlikely to get planning permission.

The estate agent’s spokeswoman added: “And a lot depends on what the council and historic Scotland would allow as there are strict rules governing what alterations could be made.”