1907 Borghese Lake, Temple of Aesculapius Rome Italy Postcard

About This Vintage Postcard

Escape to the heart of the "Eternal City" with this picturesque colorized postcard featuring the Temple of Aesculapius (Tempio di Esculapio) in the gardens of Villa Borghese, Rome. This neoclassical gem was built between 1785 and 1792 by architects Antonio and Mario Asprucci on an artificial island in the center of the park's lake. Dedicated to the Roman god of medicine and healing, the temple was designed in the Ionic style to evoke the romantic aesthetic of ancient ruins. This scene captures the tranquil beauty of "Il Lago" (The Lake), where visitors in the early 20th century, much like today, enjoyed rowing amidst the lush, verdant surroundings of what was once the private vineyard of Cardinal Scipione Borghese.

Details

Era: Divided Back (circa 1907–1912)
City: Rome (Roma)
State or Region: Lazio
Country: Italy
Topic: Villa Borghese, Temple of Aesculapius, Roman Gardens, Neoclassical Architecture, Boating Scenes
Condition: Uncirculated
Postage: None
Address Side: divided back
Orientation: Horizontal (Landscape)
Artist / Photographer: Often attributed to Alberto Pisa (for similar impressions)
Publisher: E. Richter, Roma (Card No. 13)
Printer: E. Richter
Print Type: Lithograph

Additional Information

This postcard was published by E. Richter, one of Rome's most prominent postcard editors during the Golden Age. It is identified as card number 13 in their extensive series documenting the landmarks of the Italian capital. The manufacturing date is narrowed to circa 1907–1912, based on the specific "Universal" divided back layout which lacks complex logos or additional printer markings common in later years. The Temple of Aesculapius itself houses a statue of the god believed to have been recovered from the ruins of the Mausoleum of Augustus. Villa Borghese, which includes this lake and temple, was famously donated to the city of Rome in 1903, making it a relatively new public park at the time this card was produced.