The Ancient Baths of Durrës

The Ancient Baths of Durrës are archaeological remains of public thermal complexes dating back to the Roman period, and are among the most important monuments of the ancient heritage in the coastal city of Durrës. They were almost completely discovered in 1960, during the construction works for the “Aleksandër Moisiu” Palace of Culture in the heart of the city.

These baths, which were located below the level of today's street, represent one of the most characteristic public spaces of Roman civilization in Dyrrachium (the ancient name of Durrës), where citizens not only performed purification rituals, but also conversed, rested and developed social contacts. The initial structure included regulated environments such as: the Apodyterium Room (undressing room), the Tepidarium (warm room) with a floor equipped with hypocaust bricks for underfloor heating, the Frigidarium (cold water room), the Public Pool and spaces related to the process of daily bathing in Rome.

Part of the black and white marble floor, in a "chess" pattern, is still visible on the surface, reflecting the high level of architecture and urban vibrancy of the ancient city.

According to archaeological analyses, the thermal system functioned mainly from the 2nd century to the 5th–6th centuries AD, reflecting the cultural and social changes that accompanied the closure of public baths with the spread of Christianity and the urban transformations of later periods.

The baths are part of the city's archaeological heritage along with other ancient structures, such as the Roman Amphitheater and the Byzantine Forum, creating a complete mosaic of Dyrrachium's history for visitors and researchers.

The Ancient Baths of Durrës are today a valuable component of the city's cultural heritage, declared a cultural monument, and remain an important destination for understanding the public, social and civic life of ancient Rome on the Adriatic coast.