A rare and technically advanced Roman bath complex has been discovered in Serbia, shedding new light on the architecture and technology of the Roman Empire. The discovery was made at the Vrelo-Šarkamen archaeological site in eastern Serbia, where excavations have been ongoing for decades. The complex, known in Latin as a “balneum,” includes three different pools and a sauna and is believed to have been built specifically for Emperor Maximinus Daza.
Archaeologists were unaware that the lower part of a monumental stone tower, known in the southwestern corner of the site, concealed such a complex. According to researchers from the Institute of Archaeology of Serbia, the structure presents an unusual layout for Roman baths of this period.
Unlike most Roman baths, which were built in a linear shape to facilitate plumbing, the bath of Maximinus Daza had a circular layout, a vaulted ceiling, and tall windows. The heating systems were located on the ground floor. A chimney system has also been identified that ran along the floor, while archaeologists have found the base of a large copper cauldron, used to heat water that was then sent to the pools. The cauldron itself has not been found.
The complex also included a “sudatorium,” a type of Roman sauna where people would stand in high temperatures to induce sweating. This term also gives rise to the Italian word “sudore,” which means sweat.
The bath of the emperor born in the lands of Serbia
Galerius Valerius Maximinus, known as Maximinus Daza, was born in what is now Serbia and rose to power during the tetrarchy of Diocletian. This system divided the Roman Empire into four centers of power, with emperors and co-emperors in the East and West. Daza was appointed to one of the leading positions by his uncle, Galerius. The election caused opposition and contributed to the conflicts that eventually led to civil war, the collapse of the tetrarchy system, and the end of Daza.
He was defeated by his rival, Licinius, after which he also lost his life.
Another historical detail makes Maximinus Daza particularly important. According to archaeologists, he is considered the last person in Egyptian history to officially hold the title of pharaoh. Daza remained faithful to the pagan religion and did not convert to Christianity. Excavations at Vrelo-Šarkamen continue, as archaeologists hope to uncover more data about the monumental complex and the life of the Roman elite in this part of the Empire.
