They designed aqueducts, huge arched structures with channels for water carried from the mountains to the larger towns and cities. Aqueducts were important not only for supplying the bath houses with water, but for providing the huge city of Rome and many other parts of the empire with drinking water.
Public baths were an important part of Roman life. They usually started with a hot steam bath and then moved into a cold pool. Men and women visited the same baths, but at different times of day. Most bath buildings, or thermae, also included libraries and exercise rooms. There were public toilet rooms where as many as 26 men could sit together and talk while taking care of their bodily needs. Attending the bath was a social activity as well as a kind of entertainment. It was not uncommon to have musical performances or lectures while taking a bath!
Food For Thought
Does it surprise you that the Romans had no modesty when it came to bathing? Why or why not?
How would you feel about doing all of your bathing in a public place with many other people, perhaps even with entertainment going on at the same time? What are the pros and cons?
