Temple of Aesculapius, Neoclassical temple in Villa Borghese gardens, Italy.
The Temple of Aesculapius is a neoclassical structure situated on an artificial island within Villa Borghese gardens. Four Ionic columns support a portico crowned by a triangular pediment that bears Greek inscriptions.
The structure was built between 1785 and 1787 by architect Antonio Asprucci under commission from Prince Marcantonio IV Borghese. It formed part of the broader redesign and development of the villa's gardens during this period.
The temple honors Aesculapius, the Roman god of healing, whose arrival in Rome is depicted through decorative stucco reliefs on the gable. Visitors today can see how the space was designed to celebrate this mythological moment.
Access to the island involves crossing a wooden bridge equipped with steel railings from the mainland. Note that public entry to the island is frequently restricted, so check current access conditions before your visit.
Three original Hellenistic statues were removed from the structure in 1986 during restoration work. What visitors see today are modern replicas that replaced the originals after the restoration was completed.
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