Pompeii archaeologists discover private spa where dozens of guests took luxurious baths 2,000 years ago

A luxurious spa facility has been unearthed in the ancient city of Pompeii, where time stood still after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Archaeologists say this may be one of the largest finds of its kind.

According to a statement from the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, the luxury spa is located in the heart of a large residential complex in the 9th arrondissement of Legio, a large district in the city center. The owner of the complex probably hosted a large gathering and invited guests to the bathhouse before a sumptuous meal.

“Here we have probably the largest thermal bath facility in a private house in Pompeii,” the archaeological park’s director, Gabriel Zstriegel, told The Associated Press, adding: It’s a great heat treatment. ”

Due to the size of the house, researchers believe it was owned by an important figure in the community. The bathhouse could accommodate up to 30 people and was probably used to impress guests.

The complex has three rooms heated to different temperatures. According to BBC News’ Rebecca Morell and Alison Francis, guests first entered the calidarium, which was filled with boiling water. After that, the oil is applied to the skin with a tepidarium and soaked in warm water. Bathers then proceed to the frigidarium, which is filled with cold water. They also had access to the apodytherium, or changing rooms, with beautiful mosaic floors.

“Not everyone had this level of luxury,” Zstriegel told Elisabetta Povoledo of The New York Times.

Owners may have invited guests to the complex for a variety of reasons, including closing business deals or securing votes for politicians, Zuchtriegel added. Perhaps this person was hosting team-building activities, similar to today’s “CEOs of important companies.”

Archaeologists have been excavating this large family for two years. During the summer, they discovered the bodies of two victims. One was a woman between the ages of 35 and 50, and the other was a young man in his teens or early 20s. The two tried to take shelter in a small room, but the rush of volcanic gas and ash brought their lives to a tragic end. The man died after being crushed under a fallen wall, and the woman was found curled up in her bed.

“The pyroclastic flow from Vesuvius came in the street right outside this room and caused the wall to collapse,” Pompeii archaeologist Sophie Hay told BBC News.

The hot springs are also connected to a banquet hall decorated with elaborate frescoes that were unveiled last spring. The colorful artwork depicts mythological characters related to the Trojan War.

According to the Times, officials say excavation work at the complex is unlikely to continue for some time. The site will eventually be opened to the public after experts repair it.

Filed Under: Ancient Rome, Archeology, Crafts, Cool Discoveries, History, Italy, Leisure, Pompeii, Wealth