Pictures of the Baths of Diocletian in Rome

The Baths of Diocletian, once covering 32 acres, were the largest public baths or thermae in ancient Rome. Opened in 306 AD, the baths were used for more than 200 years and accommodated up to 3000 bathers. Besides baths and pools, there were two libraries, a garden, and an exedra, probably used as a theater, where Piazza della Repubblica is today. The baths were richly decorated with marble, sculptures, and floor mosaics.

Parts of the baths were turned into churches and in 1889 the complex became part of the National Roman Museum, helping to preserve parts of the original structure although much had been destroyed. The octagonal aula was recently opened as part of the museum and inside tombs, funerary urns, and sarcophagi are on display. The baths can be visited with the Rome archeology card or 4 museum ticket any day except Monday.

These photos, taken inside the aula, are used with permission from SecretGardensItaly. Click on the thumbnail to see it larger.