May 22, 2001 15:14: THE REOPENING of Queen's House at the National Maritime Museum was heralded by a visit from Prince Charles.

The former royal villa is set to host a series of art exhibitions over the summer in a bid to attract children and members of the public to Greenwich's prominent heritage site.

The launch of the Sea of Faces exhibition on May 18 marked the reopening. The exhibition includes 150 portraits of naval figures.

The site has reopened following a 13-year period of refurbishment, intended to restore it to its appearance when it was built in the 1670s.

National Maritime Museum director Roy Clare said: "The Queen's House will now offer increased access to the Maritime Museum's wealth of paintings. There will be opportunities for people, with either a general interest or a particular love of art, to immerse themselves and enjoy the architecture and atmosphere of one of England's most important 17th century buildings."

The Prince has two paintings exhibited at the House called Loch Nagar, Balmoral in January, and Greek mountains at sunset.