The History Of Bath’s Historic Roman Baths
The History Of Bath’s Historic Roman Baths
Nestled in the English county of Somerset lies Bath, a city famous for, and named after, its Roman bath and temple complex. Once called Aquae Sulis, Bath was probably taken over by the Romans in the invasion of Britain in AD 43 thanks to its vast natural hot spring which was at the time a commemorative shrine to the Celtic Brython goddess, Sulis. Sitting on the beautiful banks of the River Avon in the West Country, Bath is a compact and architecturally stunning city which is punctuated by its Georgian buildings and famous Roman baths.
Though first coveted by the Celts, who were said to believe the ancient hot springs were sacred, it wasn’t until the Romans invaded that they realised their full potential and built the elegant temples and baths which are now fully restored and open to visitors. In the 18th century, the rich and well to do all flocked to Bath, as the city became England’s finest spa town and the health giving properties of hot spring baths and natural spas were enjoyed by the fashionable, in the setting of live concert music.
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When the Romans first encountered the hot springs, they established a settlement there as a means of relaxation for their soldiers, rather than for any strategic purpose. Following this came the erection of first a reservoir to control the flow of the waters, and then the baths and temples themselves so soldiers and entertainers could enjoy their properties. The newly finished leisure complex became a popular place to visit and attracted people from all over the UK and Europe. Once the Romans moved though however, Aquae Sulis starting to fall into ruin and the bath’s peak had passed. However, the late 17th century, Princess Anne used to ‘take the water’ in Bath which eventually led to the city once again becoming the country’s leading health resort for the wealthy, and the Roman temples and baths were fully restored to the UNESCO World Heritage Site that they are today.
Unlike many sites of such significant historical importance, the Roman baths are by no means museum pieces sectioned off by red rope. Throughout the year the baths and their heritage are celebrated in many ways, not least of all at the Bath Festival, as well as by lots of small, independent local galleries and museums.
Today, a visit to the Roman Baths Museum is the perfect way to see these ancient masterpieces, where original stone sculptures from the baths are on display and the excavated remains of the main temple courtyard can be viewed. The original lead-lined Roman Great Bath, which is fed directly by the original spring, can be seen up close too.
Though not in the Roman baths, many locals today still like to bathe in the thermal waters of Bath, as a perfect antidote to day-to-day life. With a lot of accommodation options, great public transport and car hire Bath is a rewarding city getaway, steeped in history.
Paul Buchanan writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
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