The Caracalla Thermal Baths and the Tomb of Cecilia Metella
	Walk under the immense vaults of one of the largest and best preserved Ancient Roman Baths. Imagine the colourful crowd and the noise of  water running and sprinkling ...

This powerful structure built in the III century included, besides the many fountains and thermal pools, steam baths, gymnasiums, courtyards, porches, changing rooms, bars and food shops. A new aqueduct built by the emperor Caracalla filled the enormous reservoir. From there water was converged into the hot and warm water basins and into the big swimming pool. Huge underground wood burning ovens were used to heat the water while tons of wood were stored inside enormous subterranean deposits that open along a large paved road. The upper floor, almost completely collapsed, was reserved to more particular and refined services: massages, body hair removal, coiffeur, manicure. Creams, perfumes and scents were imported from the oriental provinces and were used by both ladies and gentlemen. The complex that had spaces for up to 1600 people at one time was also a place for walking, studying and relaxing. It was surrounded by a big garden flanked by monumental exedras, a large public library and a stadium for sport competitions.

After the visit of the Baths it's possible to reach with a few minutes taxi ride the Mausoleum of Cecilia Metella the most imposing and best preserved of the monumental tombs buil by the nobility of Rome along the famous Appian Way.

 Reservation

Not needed

 Entrance Fee

6,00 euros. The price of the ticket includes the entrance to the Baths, to the Tomb of Cecilia Metella and to the Villa dei Quintili both located along the Appian Way .The ticket is worth 7 days.

 Transportation

Transportation is required if after the Baths you decide to visit either the Tomb of Cecilia Metella or the Villa dei Quintili. Both places can be reached with a few minutes taxi ride.

 Walking difficulty

Easy. Acessible to wheel chairs. A soft up the hill path to reach the ruins of the Villa dei Quintili.

 Duration

The visit of the Baths takes about 2 hours. Another hour is needed to reach and visit the Tomb of Cecilia Metella on the Appian Way. The visit of the Villa dei Quintili takes about 2 hours.