After being buried beneath meters of ash and volcanic rock for nearly 2,000 years, a spectacular bath complex looking like a private spa has recently been unearthed by archeologists working at the Archaeological Park of Pompeii. The bath is believed to have been part of a large house and included hot, warm, and cold rooms, a changing room, an impressive plunge pool, and beautiful artwork covering the walls. Even though the bath was destroyed during the infamous volcano eruption, it retains its former glory, with bright red walls, exquisite floor mosaic, and careful planning. Wall paintings depict themes from the Trojan War and Greek myths, as well as mundane figures such as exercising athletes.

Judging by the size of the room, it could host approximately 30 people, which is striking even by modern standards. Located near the large banqueting room, the spa was probably used as a lavish space to entertain wealthy guests and strike business deals. Historians believe that owners could also use rooms like this to gain electoral support or simply display their social status.

Looking Beyond the Private Spa in Pompeii

The recent discovery is only part of the tragic history of the house located at the Archaeological Park of Pompeii. Excavations of this house, called Regio IX, have already resulted in other discoveries that throw light on the life of its inhabitants. While the family owning the house probably lived a rather comfortable life, dozens of slaves ensured their lavish lifestyle. For example, archeologists have also discovered a cramped bakery where slaves were believed to have been producing bread, as well as a private laundry room.

Analysis of skeletons discovered in a small adjacent room also tells a horror story of the last hours of its existence before the eruption. Archeologists working at the heritage site located two skeletons: one belonged to a woman, who was holding jewelry and coins in her hands, and another to a young man. It is believed that the two were probably trying to hide from the destructive tsunami of volcanic gas and ash, called pyroclastic flow.

Advanced technologies now allow for less invasive research of the site, so archeologists expect to unearth more striking finds in the near future. Discoveries like the private spa are expected to explain in more detail how people of ancient Pompeii lived, what social relations they had, and how they spent the last hours and minutes before the city’s dramatic destruction.