The name of the island testifies about itself, it is located on the Tiber river and is the only island within roman boundaries. In Italian it is called “Isola Tiburina”. It has distinctive shape of the stern and prow of a vessel. Tiber Island is rather small in size – about 70 m wide and 300 m in width. But despite its humble size it has rich history. There are at least three versions about how did this island appear. First says that the island was formed around the corpse of the violent tyrant Tarquinius Superbus, which was thrown by Romans into the Tiber around 510 BCE. Second legend tells us that instead of body, the harvest of Superbus was thrown into the river. And the third legend says, that the island was formed in the result of a shipwreck, on the place where the ship sank. Later Tiber Island was overlaid with travertine marble in order to resemble the ship.
For the centuries the island was not inhabited and had bad reputation. It became home for outcasts and people who suffered infectious diseases. It contributed to turning this island into the hospital center. Indeed, the temple of the god Aesculapius was built here, and it gave new life to the island. Apart from temple, the basilica of San Bartholomew was built in 998 which still remains there.
Tiber Island is very interesting place to visit in Rome. So if you have the opportunity to visit this “eternal city” don’t miss it. The variety of Rome hotels are welcome you to this city with rich ancient history. You will definitely feel at home and strong desire to return to this marvelous city with proud name ROME.