Baths of Decius, Roman thermae on Aventine Hill, Rome, Italy.
Description
The Baths of Decius is a Roman bathing complex on Aventine Hill featuring heated rooms, bathing chambers, and an apse at the southern end. The remains are located beneath the current piazza del Tempio di Diana, nestled between the churches of Santo Alessio and Santa Prisca.
History
Emperor Decius built these public baths in 252 CE as a major bathing facility for Rome. Later rulers Constantius and Honorius carried out repairs after damage from Alaric's invasion.
Culture
The baths once contained green basalt sculptures and artwork that reflected Roman bathing practices and artistic tastes. Visitors interested in Roman art can see these pieces in the Capitoline Museums today.
Practical
The site is largely underground and difficult to visit directly since the remains are beneath modern structures. Visitors should check in advance whether access is available, as it can be restricted.
Did you know?
The structure contains earlier remains with painted stucco imitating marble dating back to the second century BCE. These older layers show how Romans built over the same location across many generations.
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