baths built by private entrepreneurs and city authorities

they were essential to the roman experience of a civilized life

buying food, purchasing bathing supplies, procuring sexual favors, and settling business were
all apart of the bathing experience

the public baths all were a single-axis row type with a palaestra

stabian bath

Situated near the Stabian Gate, one of the gates in the walls of the city, these baths served as a
hub for hygiene, relaxation, and socializing.

enter palestra (workout area), swimming pools,

Palaestra (Exercise Area): Surrounding the bathing rooms, the palaestra was an open courtyard
used for exercise and athletic activities. Visitors could engage in activities such as wrestling,
running, and ball games before or after bathing.

swimming pools

destrictarium, room for removal of dirt and oil with a strigil after working out

apodyterium (Changing Room): Upon entering the baths, visitors would first enter the
apodyterium, where they would disrobe and store their belongings. This room was usually
located near the entrance and featured benches or niches for storing clothes.

frigidarium (Cold Room): The frigidarium was the first bathing room encountered after changing.
It contained a large cold water pool, known as the natatio, for swimming or simply immersing
oneself in cool water. This room was typically decorated with marble and adorned with statues
and fountains.

tepidarium (Warm Room): Following the frigidarium, visitors would move to the tepidarium, a
room with a warm water pool. The water temperature in this room was intermediate between the
cold frigidarium and the hot caldarium. The tepidarium served as a transition point for the body
to adjust to higher temperatures.

caldarium (Hot Room): The caldarium was the hottest room in the baths and contained a large
hot water pool. This room was heated by a hypocaust system, where hot air circulated beneath
the floor and through the walls. The high temperatures in the caldarium induced sweating, which
was believed to cleanse the body of impurities.
Laconicum (Sauna): Adjacent to the caldarium, the laconicum was a dry sauna room where
bathers could relax and sweat out toxins. The walls and benches in the laconicum were often
heated, creating a steamy environment conducive to relaxation and purification.

Massage Rooms and Other Facilities: The Stabian Baths also featured additional amenities
such as massage rooms, oiling rooms, and possibly even a library or lecture hall for intellectual
pursuits. These facilities provided opportunities for further relaxation and leisure.

private bathing

forum baths

first discovered baths in pompeii

Situated near the Forum, the baths were easily accessible to residents and visitors, making
them a focal point of urban life in Pompeii. surrounded by shops and had duplicated rooms for
men and women

Architectural Splendor: While smaller in size compared to other baths in Pompeii, the Forum
Baths featured impressive architecture with well-preserved remains showcasing the intricacies
of Roman engineering.

Multi-functional Design: The baths offered a range of amenities, including bathing rooms,
exercise areas, and recreational spaces, catering to the diverse needs of bathers.

palestra

apodyterium

frigidarium

tepidarium

caldarium

women's section probably added later

Central baths

unfinished at the time of the eruption

centrally situated within the city, these baths served as a communal hub for hygiene, relaxation,
and socialization.

simplistic Design: Unlike the grandeur of other baths in Pompeii, the Central Baths had a more
modest design, focusing on functionality rather than extravagance.

only had a single series of bathing rooms

Meeting Places: The Central Baths served as more than just bathing facilities; they were also
popular meeting spots where residents could gather, socialize, and exchange news and gossip.

Cultural Events: The baths occasionally hosted cultural events, lectures, and performances,
adding to their significance as community centers.

Urban Planning: Their central location reflects the thoughtful urban planning of ancient Pompeii,
with public amenities strategically placed for the convenience of residents.

Slaves, social meanings, games