The Roman Period

Ancient sources attest to the social importance of bathhouses from the Roman Period until the Early-Modern period. For the Romans, bathing was an important part of daily life, and the baths were home to different hygienic, athletic and social activities. Only a small Roman elite owned private baths and the majority of Romans bathed in public bathing facilities.

As a result of their important role in Roman practice, baths were prevalent in Roman cities: Rome itself is said to have measured almost a thousand baths during the Imperial period.

Women excersing with a ball

(http://www.vroma.org/images/mcmanus_images/gymnast2.jpg)

Caldarium from the public Forum baths in Pompeii

(Image from Andrew Fuller, www.drew-fuller.com, 2009).

The Late Roman Period

A gradual decline of private patronage of baths took place from the 3rd century onwards across the Empire and as a result the role of the public administration in the financing of baths increased.

This process intensified during the Late Antique period, as is attested to by written sources: a decree was set up by Honorios and Arkadios in 395 A.D., stating that a third of the profits of State properties should be invested in the repair of city walls and the heating of public baths.