A unique piece of Australian history has hit the market: a former cell at Melbourne's decommissioned Pentridge Prison, once home to notorious criminals such as Ned Kelly, Mark "Chopper" Read, and Ronald Ryan, the last person executed in Australia.
Cell 120: A tiny slice of history
Cell 120, located in the old D Division, measures just 2 by 3 metres and is one of 200 cells that once held dangerous inmates. Now, it is being offered for sale publicly for the first time, part of a boutique collection of storage spaces, many of which have been converted into wine cellars.
A collector's item
Selling agent Raphael Calik-Houston from Ray White Coburg described the cell as "a collector's item," comparable to owning a collectable car or a Rolex watch. He emphasised the historical significance behind the property.
Around 50 former cells now house wine collections, benefiting from the naturally cool temperature ideal for storage. The cell comes with its original 130-year-old key, giving the new owner the rare privilege of locking and unlocking the door, unlike its former occupants.
Potential uses and features
Some buyers have used their cells for storing books or memorabilia. The complex offers 24/7 access and communal areas for events. According to one owner, the site is also said to be haunted, adding to its mystique.
Cell 120 is expected to fetch up to $90,000 when it goes to auction later this month. Agents Raphael Calik-Houston and Saha Sahardid from Ray White Coburg are confident it will sell.
