The Thermae Antoninianae, better known as the Terme di Caracalla, is an extraordinary complex in the history of Rome, both for its size and decorations. They were built in 216 A.D. under Emperor Caracalla and represent one of the best examples of well-preserved large imperial baths from antiquity.
These baths had a rectangular plan, a typical feature of the great imperial baths, and were not only a place for bathing and body care, but also for sport, study, and walking. The central block of the baths, the true nucleus of the complex, had a single axis along which there were various rooms, including the caldarium (hot room), the tepidarium (warm room), the frigidarium (cold room), and the natatio (pool). Next to this central block, symmetrically arranged, there were two gyms and changing rooms. Around the central area were cisterns, two large symmetrical libraries to the south, two exedras to the west and east, and the main entrances and tabernae (shops) inserted into the perimeter space to the north.
The basement of the Baths of Caracalla was the beating heart of the complex, where hundreds of slaves and specialized workers worked to make the ingenious technological machine of the baths work. These underground passages extended for about two kilometers and included carriage tunnels, timber depots, heating systems with ovens and boilers, a water system, a mill, and a Mithraeum, one of the largest in Rome, in which it is still possible to see the pit. sanguinis, probably used for the initiation rituals of oriental cults. This Mithraeum indicates the Severan family’s interest in oriental cults.
From an accessibility point of view, the monument on the surface is easily accessible as it does not have significant differences in height, making it possible for a large audience to visit it.
Openings calendar
From Tuesday to Sunday
From 1st to 30th September opening from 9.00am to 7.00pm (last entry at 6.00pm)
Closure
Closed on Monday
Reservations
Online ticket booking on Coopculture
For information: info@coopculture.it
Tickets
Full price €8.00 (Exhibition supplement €5.00)
Reduced €2.00 (Exhibition supplement €5.00)
ATAC Special €6.00 (Exhibition supplement €5.00)
How to get there: (we have chosen public transport)
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