Ancient Roman Baths of Caracalla in Rome to Sparkle Again After 1,500-Year Dry Spell
After sitting dry for 1,500 years, the Baths of Caracalla in Rome are finally getting a chance to shine once again. Built in the early third century during the reigns of Emperor Septimius Severus and his son Caracalla, the baths were a popular destination for up to 8,000 visitors daily until the source of their water was destroyed by the Visigoths in the sixth century.
The restoration of the 25-acre site is a 10-year project overseen by Daniela Porro, the special superintendent of Rome, and Mirella Serlorenzi, the monument’s director. The first completed phase, the introduction of a 137-by-105-foot shallow reflecting pool known as the Water Mirror, designed by architects Hannes Peer and Paolo Bornello, recently opened to the public.
Inspired by the Natatio, an Olympic-size pool in the ancient bath complex, the Water Mirror features 20 submerged water jets with reflectors that create delicate, light-infused geysers. A stage near the pool’s surface is intended for theatrical performances, lectures, and concerts.
In addition to the pool, the project includes redesigning the entrances to the monument, adding a botanical garden, refreshment areas, and restoring the surrounding buildings. Hannes Peer described the project as “comprehensive and complex.”
The Baths of Caracalla are a significant historical and architectural site in Rome, and the restoration project aims to bring back their full aquatic splendor for visitors to enjoy once again.
