The Roman Baths in Bath, United Kingdom, are a testament to ancient engineering and culture, dating back to around 70 AD. Today, the site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, captivating visitors with its historical significance and architectural splendor, preserving a slice of Roman life in Britain.

The museum built around the authentic site explains not only the technical operation of the baths, but also how Roman civilization gradually infused the populations of southern Britain.

The Baths today

The building that now surrounds the ancient site dates back essentially to the 18th century, with additional additions in the 19th century, at a time when spa holidays were beginning to attract a segment of high society. Some aspects of the architecture are inspired by what was known about buildings of this type in Roman times.

The solemn, even majestic architecture reflects the importance given by the Romans to public baths. Associated with a religious temple in the same complex, these common spaces allowed cultural, social and religious practices to converge in a single, pleasant and comfortable location.

The baths in Roman times

A scale model of the entire Roman baths complex gives a clearer idea of how much larger they were than they are today. Similarly, today’s ground level is four meters higher, giving the impression of underground baths when in fact they were at street level. Large vaults covered the pools, making them usable in all seasons with the same level of comfort.

The main basins are still in their original locations. The first basin collects the water as it emerges from the spring. Next, the Great Bath remains the centerpiece of the complex, with a depth of 1.60 meters, where the water was fed by a fountain. Finally, there’s the circular cold bath, which has remained unchanged. Around it, other rooms were used for related activities such as massages, saunas and sports. Hologram characters bring these areas to life.

The hot water circuit

The water circuit is evidence of the sophisticated engineering of ancient Roman hydrology. Fed by natural hot springs producing over a million liters a day. Water gushes from a depth of 4,000 metres, 13,100 feet, at a constant temperature of 46°C, 114.8° F.

The water first flows into the Sacred Basin, and is then directed at different temperatures into the various basins with specific functions. This is achieved by an elaborate system of drains and channels to ensure water circulation. There’s even an overflow to the nearby River Avon. A modern tap also allows visitors to taste the warm water.

The Roman Museum

In addition to showcasing the Roman baths, excavations have uncovered numerous relics and objects dating back to the Roman occupation, which are displayed and explained in the multi-storey exhibition accompanying the visit to the Baths. The Bath Roman Baths Museum is an exciting journey back in time to the heart of ancient Roman civilization.

It features a partial reconstruction of the temple dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva. Built around the first century AD, it is a striking example of classical Roman architecture, adorned with sculptures and statues. Dedicated to Sulis Minerva, a deity combining aspects of the Roman goddess Minerva and the Celtic goddess Sulis.

Inside, votive offerings and inscriptions give an insight into the society developed from Roman influence.