Roman Emperor's Secret Sauna Found

A team of archaeologists in eastern Serbia has made a significant discovery at the archaeological site of Vrelo-Šarkamen, uncovering a lavish private bath used by Roman emperor Maximinus Daza and other high-status residents at an imperial palace. The bath complex, which featured heated floors, three bathing pools, and a sauna, was part of an imperial palace built in the early fourth century.

The bath was located at the bottom of a tower within the imperial palace, with a design that archaeologists had never seen before in the Roman Empire. The complex had a domed ceiling with six windows, showcasing a high level of engineering knowledge. The balneum was split into two sections: one for equipment and one for bathing and relaxing.

The equipment room contained a furnace that heated the bath's floors and the base for a copper boiler. The discovery was made by a research team from the Institute of Archaeology in Serbia, who have been excavating at Vrelo-Šarkamen on and off for decades.

Maximinus Daza, one of the four Roman 'tetrarchs', was born in what is now Serbia and occupied the imperial palace from 310 to 313. He died in 313 after losing a civil war against his rival, Licinius.

## Why it matters The discovery of the lavish private bath provides a unique insight into the lives of Roman emperors and high-status residents during the early fourth century. The imperial palace, with its monumental tower and complex bath system, was a symbol of power and luxury. The discovery also highlights the advanced engineering knowledge of the Roman Empire, with the bath's heated floors and domed ceiling showcasing their architectural skills.

The excavation of the imperial palace has revealed that it was even more complex and luxurious than previously thought. The discovery of the private bath is a significant find, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of Roman emperors and the opulence of their residences.