Archaeologists Discover 2,000-Year-Old Private Bathhouse in Pompeii's Regio IX, Used for Elite Gatherings

Jan 17, 2025, 03:23 PM

Archaeologists have unearthed a large private bathhouse in the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, marking a significant discovery described as a 'once-in-a-century' find. The bathhouse, potentially the largest ever found in a private home in Pompeii, was discovered 2,000 years ago in the Regio IX area, specifically on Via di Nola, and is part of a grand residence. It features a series of hot, warm, and cold rooms, a large plunge pool, and could accommodate up to 30 people. The complex is connected to a banquet hall, suggesting it was used by the elite to host lavish gatherings and display their wealth and social status. The bathhouse's walls are adorned with paintings depicting scenes from the Trojan War, and it includes a peristyle with a courtyard and a large pool. Additionally, gold coins and pearl earrings were found, indicating the wealth of the residents. The discovery sheds light on the opulence and social dynamics of ancient Roman life before the city was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. The bathhouse is adjacent to a black-walled banquet hall decorated with scenes from Greek mythology.