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Recent discoveries in the ancient city of Pompeii, which was famously buried under volcanic ash and lava in AD 79, have revealed an astonishing find: a private bathhouse that dates back 2,000 years. This facility features luxurious mosaics and a series of rooms with varying temperatures, reminiscent of modern spa amenities.
Gabriel Zuchtriegel, the director of the Pompeii archaeological park, remarked, “We have here perhaps the largest thermal complex in a private house in Pompeii.” He elaborated, noting that the elite of Pompeii constructed expansive areas within their residences for hosting lavish banquets. These gatherings served multiple purposes, such as fostering political alliances, securing votes, and displaying their immense wealth, while also offering them a chance to enjoy therapeutic baths.
The newly uncovered baths are located in Regio IX, a central zone of Pompeii that remains largely unexcavated. Ongoing archaeological efforts in this area have unearthed significant insights into the everyday lives of Pompeiians. Recently, researchers also discovered a bakery, a laundry, two villas, and the skeletal remains of three individuals who perished during the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius that obliterated Pompeii and Herculaneum.
The newly exposed baths exhibit walls adorned with vibrant stripes in shades of red, black, and yellow, alongside a large rectangular basin featuring curved stone seating. This combination creates a visually striking environment that speaks to the aesthetic sensibilities of the time.
From Bath to Banquet
Visual documentation of the excavation showcases the striking design elements of the bath complex. Zuchtriegel highlights that affluent residents often followed a routine of bathing before feasting, thus enabling them to conveniently enjoy both activities within their own homes.
“There is room for about 30 people who could do the whole routine, similar to what was offered in public baths,” he explained. This private complex included facilities like the calidarium, a space designed for heat, alongside a substantial basin for cold water immersion, showcasing the varied bathing experiences available to Pompeii’s elite.
Source
www.cbc.ca