The archaeological park of Pompeii has announced an extraordinary discovery: a lavish bath complex within a private residence. The complex, which rivals the size of only a few others found in Pompeii, was unearthed during recent excavations.
Experts estimate that the complex could accommodate up to thirty people. It featured a large pool, an indoor courtyard with a colonnade, a changing room, and several rooms with hot, warm, and cold water. The owner of the complex, evidently a member of the local elite, enjoyed a high social status. They hosted lavish banquets and offered their guests the luxury of bathing in this private spa. The walls of the residence were adorned with frescoes depicting athletes and still-life scenes featuring various delicacies.
Excavations were carried out using innovative techniques. To access the floor level, specialists employed a temporary support system, avoiding the need to dismantle the unstable architectural elements of the colonnade. This innovative approach allows for the preservation of the site's original structure.
The Pompeii Archaeological Park, located near Naples, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It encompasses the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, which was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.