This website presents our knowledge and research on this important aspect of the Royal Collection. As of April 2026 it will not be regularly updated and new research on this topic will sit within the main website.

Landscape, Nature and Architecture

Technological improvements enabled Prince Albert to collect photographs of places that were significant to him

AIMÉ CIVIALE (1821-93)

Le col & la route du Saint Gotthard, du côté de l'Italie

1859-68

Poitevin process | 26.6 x 35.3 cm (image) | RCIN 2370870

Photograph of the road ascending towards the Hospice of the St Gotthard Pass. About midway a steep path branches off to the right leading to the Custom House. The scenery is partly covered by snow.

  • Creator(s)

    Aimé Civiale (1821-93) (artist)

  • 26.6 x 35.3 cm (image)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Places
      • Europe
        • Switzerland
          • St Gotthard Pass [Switzerland]
    • Geography
      • Physiography
        • Lakes
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • albums
          • photograph albums