Baths of Trajan

The thermal complex spans over six hectares with a central bathing area surrounded by three porticoed sides containing rooms for social activities.

Emperor Trajan commissioned architect Apollodorus of Damascus to build these thermal baths, which opened in 109 CE as Rome's first grand bathhouse.

The complex included two separate libraries, Greek and Latin, with rectangular niches carved into walls for storing books and documents.

The building's northeast-southwest orientation maximized sun exposure for the hot water section, enhancing the natural heating of the calidarium chambers.

The remains include a monumental hemicycle entrance with preserved lower levels that now serves as access point to Nero's Domus Aurea.

Location: Rome

Architects: Apollodorus of Damascus

Part of: Regio III Isis et Serapis

GPS coordinates: 41.89187,12.49628

Latest update: May 27, 2025 09:53