A research team excavating an imperial palace in eastern Serbia has uncovered an unusually designed Roman private bath, or balneum, built inside the lowest level of a monumental tower at the Vrelo-Šarkamen archaeological site.
The bath formed part of a fortified residential complex constructed in the early fourth century and occupied by Maximinus Daza, who was Roman emperor from 310 to 313. Archaeologists from Serbia’s Institute of Archaeology made the discovery during recent excavations, after work at the site had continued intermittently for decades.
Unlike the predominantly linear layout known for ancient Roman baths, in which rooms were arranged in a row, the newly identified complex was circular. Its domed ceiling included six windows, a feature the excavation team said demonstrated a high level of engineering knowledge.
The complex was divided into an area containing the equipment needed to operate the baths and a suite intended for bathing and relaxation. In the service section, archaeologists found a furnace that heated the floors and the base of a copper boiler used to warm the water. The boiler itself is no longer present.
The bathing section contained three pools or tubs and a sudatorium, a steam room or sauna. Together with the heated floors and domed architecture, these features indicate that the space was designed not only for washing but also for comfort and relaxation. According to the research statement, the bath was intended for high-status residents of the palace.
The discovery adds to evidence that Maximinus Daza’s residence was more complex and luxurious than previously understood. The excavators have linked the palace to the emperor, but the supplied reporting does not establish which individual used the bath on particular occasions.
Researchers plan to continue investigating the complex. Further work is expected to clarify the arrangement of its rooms and how Maximinus Daza and his family reached the bath within the palace.
