Thermes de Constantin, Roman baths in Arles, France
The Thermes de Constantin are an ancient Roman bathing complex located near the banks of the Rhône in Arles. The ruins include several rooms of varying sizes, with a large vaulted hall and wide wall openings that once let light into the bathing areas.
The complex was built in the early 4th century, when Emperor Constantine chose Arles as one of his preferred residences in the western empire. The baths stayed in use for several centuries before being gradually buried under the medieval city.
These baths served as a gathering spot where Romans came together daily for bathing, conversation, and leisure time. The structure reveals how integral personal care and social gathering were to ancient daily routines.
The site sits in the center of Arles, within easy walking distance of the city's other ancient monuments. Some rooms lie well below street level, so sturdy shoes make the visit more comfortable.
Beneath the bathing rooms, the hypocaust system is still visible: a grid of small brick pillars that allowed hot air to flow under the floors. The same hot air also rose through the walls, heating the entire room from the ground up.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
