Could not load content1.png asset as non content file

When trying to import an image into my 'game' I get a error message. The one displayed in the title. it is called content1.png and is in the Content folder. I have

public override void LoadContent()
{
    base.LoadContent();
    path = "Content/content1.png";
    splash1 = content.Load<Texture2D>(path);
}

and it doesn't load it.
I have no idea what to do here.