Archaeologists Discover 2,000-Year-Old Private Bath Complex in Pompeii, Accommodating 30

Jan 17, 2025, 02:50 PM

Archaeologists have unearthed a large and sophisticated private thermal bath complex in the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, which was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius 2,000 years ago in AD 79. The discovery, described as a 'once-in-a-century' find, was made during excavations of a home on Via di Nola in the Regio IX area, believed to have belonged to a member of Pompeii's elite, possibly Aulus Rustius Verus. The bath complex, connected to a black-walled banquet hall adorned with scenes from Greek mythology, features a hot room, a warm room, and a cold room with a large pool, capable of accommodating up to 30 people. The complex is adorned with frescoes and mosaics, showcasing the wealth and social status of its owner. The find also includes the remains of two individuals, a woman and a younger man, who were trapped and killed during the eruption. Gabriel Zuchtriegel, the director of the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, highlighted the significance of the discovery. The excavation, part of a broader project, continues to reveal insights into the life and societal dynamics of ancient Pompeii.