Roman emperor's private bath with 3 pools, sauna uncovered
Archaeologists in eastern Serbia have uncovered a private, circular bath complex belonging to the Roman Emperor Maximinus Daza. The structure, located beneath a tower, features sophisticated engineering including heated floors and a domed ceiling, offering new insights into imperial Roman luxury.
Why it matters
This discovery provides valuable archaeological evidence regarding the architectural ingenuity and personal lifestyle of Roman rulers during the tetrarchy period.
Nearly 1,700 years ago, an emperor could retreat from the demands of the Roman court without leaving his palace. Beneath a monumental tower in what is now eastern Serbia, he had a private bathing suite built with heated floors, multiple pools and a sauna — a remarkably sophisticated space designed for comfort, privacy and relaxation. Archaeologists have now uncovered the remains of that unusual bath complex, offering a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Roman Emperor Maximinus Daza and the engineering behind his imperial residence.A palace built for an emperorThe discovery was made at Vrelo-Šarkamen, a fortified residential complex constructed in the early fourth century. The site is associated with Maximinus Daza, who ruled as Roman emperor from 310 to 313.
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