Research publications or official archaeological interpretations

Archaeologists Discover 2,000-Year-Old Large Private Thermal Bath Complex in Pompeii's Regio IX, Accommodating 30

Jan 17, 2025, 02:12 PM

Archaeologists have unearthed a large and sophisticated private thermal bath complex in the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. The complex, discovered 2,000 years ago in a private residence on Via di Nola in the Regio IX area, is believed to be one of the largest of its kind found in the city. The baths, connected to a banquet hall known as the black room, could accommodate up to 30 people and featured hot, warm, and cold rooms, as well as a changing room. The residence, thought to have belonged to a member of Pompeii's elite, was used to host lavish banquets and provide guests with the opportunity to relax in the thermal baths. The discovery highlights the social and political functions of such spaces in Roman society, where owners could showcase their status and influence.