Temple of Aesculapius (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Temple of Aesculapius?
What makes it 78% Solo-Friendly: The quiet lakeside path, benches for reading, and free access let a solo visitor relax or sketch easily, and safety is good, but no indoor shelter if rain hits.
Positives:
- Peaceful atmosphere: The small island setting offers quiet away from city noise.
- Open access: No ticket is needed to enter the park or view the temple.
Challenges:
- Limited facilities: No restrooms or visitor services on the temple island.
- Rowboat minimum fee: Boat rental often requires a minimum two-person fee for 20 minutes.
What is Temple of Aesculapius?
- A small 18th-century Ionic temple situated on an artificial island in the central lake of Villa Borghese, commissioned by Marcantonio IV Borghese and designed by Antonio Asprucci and Giuseppe Valadier in 1786
- Dedicated to Aesculapius, the ancient Greco-Roman god of medicine, the circular plan and fluted columns reflect the era’s neoclassical revival of classical temple architecture
- Set amid landscaped gardens and fringed by cypress and umbrella pines, the temple embodies romantic neoclassicism within Rome’s urban green space
What is so special about Temple of Aesculapius for solo trip?
- Scenic 18th-century Ionic temple set on a small island
- Flat, 400 m lakeside loop ideal for walking or light jogging
- Sunrise and sunset reflections make stunning photos
- Free access keeps it budget-friendly for solo travelers
- Nearby hydrochronometer adds a unique engineering stop
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Enough time to stroll the lake loop, take photos, and relax by the temple at your own pace.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Temple of Aesculapius
Walk the lake circuit:
Follow the 400 m path around Laghetto di Villa Borghese to view the Temple of Aesculapius from multiple angles.
Tip: Start early to avoid crowds and use the wooden pier for close-up photos.
Sketch or read by the waterside:
Sit on a bench near the temple to draw its Ionic columns or read in a quiet spot.
Tip: Bring a portable sketchbook or paperback and choose a shaded spot to stay cool.
Capture sunrise or sunset reflections:
Photograph the temple silhouette and its reflection in the lake at dawn or dusk.
Tip: Arrive 15 minutes before golden hour to set up your shot along the gravel path.
Visit the nearby water clock:
Walk to the Pincio terrace to see Embriaco’s 1867 water-powered clock in a second pond.
Tip: Include this quick detour right after the temple for an engineering marvel.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Temple of Aesculapius
- Combine nearby sights: Pair the temple visit with the Pincio terrace and Embriaco clock for efficient sightseeing.
- Use metro to Spagna: Take Metro A to Spagna station, then enter Villa Borghese via Viale dei Cavalli Marini to reach the lake quickly.
Reviews of Temple of Aesculapius
Husam Qissi
Very interesting experience “A mix of history and nature… a lake in the heart of the city.” If you’re looking for a place that magically transports you from the busy tourist streets of Rome into a peaceful natural escape, the lake inside Villa Borghese is a must-visit. This beautiful spot gives you a unique experience — shifting you from the atmosphere of the city’s ancient sites straight into ...
Marek W
For the best view of the temple, be sure to rent the row boat. It’s a pleasant, but short, 20min experience. I’d recommend knowing how to use a row boat as there were many people there unable to do so. The temple and pond can also be viewed from the walking paths just beyond the fence surrounding the pond.
Michel Desjardins
Very nice lake. Looks bigger on Google map than in reality. Too many small boats on our for our liking. It's free. Great park around!
Will McCabe
Picturesque lake with a temple, unfortunately the temple was closed when I visited. The lake has fish and cute little turtles swimming around in it. There are geese, ducks and other wading birds that I didn't recognise as well. There are also little paddle boats that can be rented out allowing you to have a little sailing around on the lake. Overall, a very picturesque place, I highly recommend.
Victoria Rose
This was so beautiful. Has been a highlight on my trip so far. You can also go on your own paddle boat for 5 euros per person. We didn’t, but the atmosphere was amazing. There was a woman playing the harp, fish and turtles swimming and stunning scenery.
When is the best time to visit Temple of Aesculapius (Rome, Italy)?
In summer, visit early morning to avoid heat. In spring, enjoy wildflowers along the shore. In autumn, watch colored leaves mirror in the water. After heavy rain, paths may be muddy—wear waterproof shoes.
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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Park entry | EUR 0 |
| Rowboat rental (20 min) | EUR 3 |
| Coffee near the lake | EUR 3 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 6 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Temple of Aesculapius
Address: Via Ulisse Aldrovandi, 6, 00197 Roma RM, Italy
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About Temple of Aesculapius
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+39 06 060810 BEST nearby Activities
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