About Baths of Caracalla
Baths of Caracalla, also known as Thermae Antoninianae, began construction in 212 AD, under the reign of Emperor Caracalla, officially known as Marcus Aurelius Antoninus. He assumed the name “Caracalla” due to the Gallic tunic he wore.
Although Emperor Caracalla was notoriously known for the slaying of his brother, Geta, he is also widely known for his pronouncement to offer citizenship to free inhabitants of the Roman Empire. Keeping in mind the importance of the health of the citizens, the Baths of Caracalla Rome were constructed and completed in 217 AD.
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- Opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM to 1 hour before sunset and Monday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
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- Baths of Caracalla, also known as Thermae Antoninianae, began construction in 212 AD, under the reign of Emperor Caracalla, officially known as Marcus Aurelius Antoninus
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- At the entrance there’s a little book stand where you can also buy some souvenirs
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- Keeping in mind the importance of the health of the citizens, the Baths of Caracalla Rome were constructed and completed in 217 AD
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- Baths of Caracalla was a place the Romans came not only to cleanse, but also to socialize and relax
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- The luxurious interior consisted of marble seats, mosaic covered walls and floors, statues and fountains, similar to a high-class spa of today
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- In 537 AD, Goths (East Germanic citizens) destroyed part of the Aqua Marcia aqueduct, cutting off the water supply to the distribution system
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- You can still see the original floor and the fancy patterns
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- They used different designs for each room
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- Some people say that the construction of the Baths of Caracalla was stared by Caracalla’s father and then completed by the son
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- Underneath the Baths they had many people working to keep the water heated
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- You can still see some mosaic designs which have remained intact until today
Baths of Caracalla Rome was a place the Romans came not only to cleanse, but also to socialize and relax. The luxurious interior consisted of marble seats, mosaic covered walls and floors, statues and fountains, similar to a high-class spa of today. In addition, there were gardens and art galleries to explore, gymnasiums for exercise, libraries to engage in and restaurants to tempt the palate.
The Baths of Caracalla were appreciated by the Romans for the next 300 years until 537 AD when Goths (East Germanic citizens) destroyed part of the Aqua Marcia aqueduct, cutting off the water supply to the distribution system.
Due to both neglect and natural disaster, Baths of Caracalla have been left in ruin. Yet despite the deterioration of this architectural wonder, visitors are still captivated by the ruins and the grandness of what once was.
