Baths of Caracalla

Construction began under Emperor Septimius Severus, but it was completed by his son, Caracalla, in AD 216. The complex was built through the tireless efforts of 5,000 workers over five years and could accommodate up to 1,600 visitors at a time. The architectural achievement was astounding: water was supplied by an aqueduct constructed specifically for this purpose, and heating was provided by an intricate system of pipes under the floors, the hypocaustum, which was stoked day and night by slaves in underground corridors.

The walls of the baths were once adorned with expensive marble cladding, massive mosaics, and famous statues such as the Farnese Hercules, now displayed in Naples. The complex remained operational until the 6th century AD, when the Gothic invaders cut off the water supply, bringing an end to this golden age of Roman bathing culture.

Although much of the roof and decoration has been lost over the centuries, the remaining walls, some reaching heights of 35 metres, are still awe-inspiring.

• Frigidarium, Tepidarium, and Caldarium: The vast halls of the cold, warm, and hot water pools are still identifiable, giving a sense of the monumental scale of the spaces.

• Mosaic floors: Many geometric and figurative mosaics, depicting aquatic life or athletes, have survived intact in several areas.

• The underground world: The service corridors beneath the baths and the Mithraeum, offering a glimpse into the mystery cults of the era, can be visited periodically.

• Summer opera performances: Today, world-renowned opera performances are held within the massive walls, showcasing a modern and sustainable reuse of the ancient space.

The Baths of Caracalla are an ideal choice for those looking to avoid the crowds around the Colosseum and enjoy a greener, more tranquil experience.

• Green surroundings: The ruins are surrounded by a vast park that provides a cooler microclimate during the summer heat. This area is one of the city's key green spaces, where biodiversity and history coexist harmoniously.

• Transport: It is just a 10-minute walk from the B metro line's Circo Massimo station. The area is also bike-friendly, allowing visitors to avoid city centre traffic. The site is accessible by the 714 bus as well.

• Preservation: A significant portion of the entrance fees is dedicated to ongoing maintenance and precise restoration, ensuring the walls stand for centuries to come.