Public baths in ancient Rome – The Baths of Diocletian

These former public baths were named after the Roman Emperor Diocletian, and are located within Rome. Construction started in 298 AD and was finished in 8 years. Known for being ancient Rome’s biggest baths of their kind, the brick and marble structure is a sight to behold.

They served the local community for relaxation, socialising and sport for over 200 years before falling into ruin. Following decades of reconstruction works, the baths are open to the public in all their glory for you to visit! Read on to find out more.

About the National Roman museum – Baths of Diocletian

The baths are part of the National Roman Museum – a collection of amazing statues, art and other artefacts spread across 4 museums in Rome (more about them later).

Many of the artefacts from the museum itself have been distributed elsewhere. But don’t worry, there is more than enough to see. Opened to the public from the year 2008, the Baths of Diocletian architecture is hugely impressive.

Check out in particular the exhibition on early Latin peoples, and marvel at how this structure was even build way back then. Beautiful frescoes can be witnessed high up on the ceilings, and don’t forget a long stroll in the gardens to marvel at the artwork on display. Definitely on our list for things to do in Rome once you have hit off the Colosseum and the Vatican City.

Baths of Diocletian Rome Facts – Intriguing details you didn’t know

1. The site is so impressive that nowadays it is used on occasion for state funerals
2. The residents of the area used the baths for over 200 years, and only stopped when Goths severed the water supply in the 16th century as part of their invasion of Rome.
3. Rumour has it that Diocletian never actually visited Rome himself, leaving the running of that part of the Empire to Maximian.
4. The baths are said to be able to hold 3000 people
5. Diocletian had a bad reputation about the number of Christian slaves that died during the construction, even though he was not directly involved.

Baths of Diocletian Plan

The massive structure, which also included a gym, library and lots of different areas for bathing, spread over 130,000 metres squared. Here, hot, cold and warm baths were available for public use.

From the huge site, located on the Viminal hill, only a small portion is open to the public, but you can really appreciate the scale. Especially if you climb up the Santa Maria degli Angeli for the best views.

The plan for the Baths was modelled on the Baths of Caracalla, with the aim of being bigger and more impressive. The central area was located within a large square, which totalled 376 x 361 meters, and became the focal point for life in the area.

Details about Construction

Built entirely in brick encased in beautiful marble. Over ten thousand Christian slaves undertook this tedious and laborious work.

The construction of the Baths of Diocletian Rome took 8 years, during which many of the slaves died of exhaustion. The Santa Maria degli Angeli Basilica was constructed in memory of those that lost their lives. 

Where & How to Get to Baths of Diocletian Tickets

Ticket prices are pretty reasonable as they cover all 4 of the Roman Museum complexes.

This means you can also visit the following cool attractions with your pass:

• Crypta Balbi – artefacts displayed in the ruins of a former theatre
• Palazzo Altemps – amazing statues in a beautiful 16th century palace
• Palazzo Massimo alle Terme  – great archaeology museum located near the Diocletian Baths

Here is the cost breakdown for entry:

Check out more about Rome City Pass here!

Get your Baths of Diocletian tickets online here today. If you do not have access to the internet, or prefer to buy in person, simply purchase at the gate.

Also, take the opportunity to visit the National Roman Museum, so you can take in all of the Roman Museum complexes. We recommend you do the Baths and the Palazzo Massimo together in one day.

National Roman Museum & Baths Location

Your ticket will include a Baths of Diocletian map (a PDF if you book online) and will give you the layout of the site.

The Baths of Diocletian entrance is located on the Viale Enrico de Nicola, 00185. Once you have got in, spend the time touring the baths first, which are simply stunning. You will then have time to take in the gardens and the more traditional museum displays.

• To get to the Baths of Diocletian location, take the Metro line A or B to Termini.

Baths of Diocletian Opening Hours

Baths of Diocletian Map

Check out this map below of the awesome structure to help you plan your visit.

FAQs

Conclusion

The Baths of Diocletian are, in our opinion, a must-see. The ticket prices are really reasonable too, considering you can see the other sites of the National Roman Museum.

Once you have planned your trip here and secured your tickets online, it is time to sort out the rest of your trip. Check out some of the other great things to see and do in Rome in between visiting the National Roman Museum here. We’d love to know how you get on during your trip.