Exploring ancient Roman life often brings to mind their frequent visits to the baths. While it may seem like cleanliness was a top priority for Romans, it turns out that bathing was just one aspect of Roman bathhouses. These locations were bustling hubs for socializing, making connections, and indulging in various activities beyond bathing. They were a place to unwind, relax, and truly embrace the Roman way of life.
Garrett Ryan, the mastermind behind the ancient history Youtube channel Told in Stone, delves into the intricacies of Roman baths in his latest video. He sheds light on how Roman baths served as “third places,” as defined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg in his book The Great Good Place. These baths weren’t just for bathing but also for fostering a sense of community and belonging, characteristics of a true third place.
One of the remarkable aspects of Roman baths was their impressive technological advancements. Ryan unpacks the architectural marvel, water supply systems, heating methods, and sanitation practices of these ancient establishments. While discussing the somewhat unsavory nature of bath water in Roman times, he contrasts it with the remarkably well-preserved Hammam Essalihine in Algeria, where Roman bathing traditions are still upheld.
For a first-hand look at a functioning Roman bath, check out Ryan’s video on his channel Scenic Routes to the Past. Despite his fascination with antiquity, he overlooked packing a swimsuit for the occasion!
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Based in Seoul, Colin Marshall writes and broadcasts on cities, language, and culture. His projects include the Substack newsletter Books on Cities and the book The Stateless City: a Walk through 21st-Century Los Angeles. Follow him on Twitter at @colinmarshall or on Facebook.
