Trier Imperial Baths

The Trier Imperial Baths (German: Kaiserthermen) are a large Roman bath complex in Trier, Germany. The complex was constructed in the early 4th century AD, during the reign of Constantine I. During that time, Trier was a major imperial hub, being a primary residence for Constantine's son Crispus. The baths were built around hot water pools reaching 40°C.^[1] Underneath the complex was a network of underground passageways used by the staff which can still be seen today, along with the remains of the sewer system.^[1] However, the baths were never completed and were made into a castle in the Middle Ages.^[2]

Trier Imperial Baths

UNESCO World Heritage Site
Location	Trier, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
Part of	Roman Monuments, Cathedral of St Peter and Church of Our Lady in Trier
Criteria	Cultural: (i), (iii), (iv), (vi)
Reference	367-006
Inscription	1986 (10th Session)
Coordinates	49°44′59″N 6°38′32″E
Location of Trier Imperial Baths in Germany Show map of Germany Trier Imperial Baths (Rhineland-Palatinate) Show map of Rhineland-Palatinate

History

Roman Period

Constantius Chlorus initiated construction of the baths shortly before 300 C.E. and construction ceased around 316 C.E. with the baths still incomplete. Like Imperial baths found in Rome, such as the Baths of Caracalla or the Baths of Trajan, the Trier Imperial Baths were divided into two parts, the thermae and the palaestra. The palaestra measures 160 by 130 meters, while the main bath building is west of these exercise grounds.

Later Uses

Current Remains

Gallery

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  Augusta Treverorum City Plan
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  Model of the Baths
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  1983, before some restoration
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  remains of walls and subterranean passages
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See also

• Forum baths
• Barbara Baths
• List of Roman public baths

External links

• "Tourist-Information Trier: Imperial Baths: Info". trier-info.de. Retrieved 2014-01-31.