The Rediscovery of Baden-Baden’s Roman Imperial Baths: A Historic Dig After 180 Years!
For the first time in over 180 years, archaeologists have carried out an extensive study of the Roman Imperial Baths (Kaiserthermen) beneath the marketplace in Baden-Baden, Germany. This long-overdue excavation has revealed fascinating new insights into the structure and preservation of the ancient bathing complex, which dates back to the late 1st century CE. The project, led by experts from ArchaeoConnect and the State Office for Monument Preservation (LAD), marks a significant milestone in our understanding of this historic site.
Photo Credit: LAD, Sarah Roth
A Glimpse into Antiquity: The Roman Baths of Aurelia Aquensis
In ancient times, the Roman baths in Baden-Baden were known as Aurelia Aquensis ("Aurelia-of-the-Waters"), named after Emperor Marcus Aurelius Severus Alexander Augustus. These baths were among the largest in the Baden-Württemberg region and were strategically built directly over the natural hot springs of Florentinerberg. This makes them the earliest known example of geothermal water usage in the area.
Although parts of the site were first uncovered in the mid-19th century, research since then has been minimal. However, recent sewer renovations provided archaeologists with a unique opportunity to examine a 50-square-metre section of the baths using cutting-edge techniques.
Photo Credit: LAD, Sarah Roth
Uncovering Layers of History
The excavation has brought to light Roman-era walls buried just one metre below the modern ground level—some of which had never been documented before. Among the discoveries were hypocaust bricks, crucial evidence of an advanced underfloor heating system that once kept sections of the complex warm.
In the area where the baths’ largest known room once stood, archaeologists found multiple layers of screed, indicating that the walls and floors were once adorned with luxurious marble cladding. Perhaps most excitingly, the team unearthed three remarkably well-preserved steps leading into a bathing pool. These steps provide a direct and tangible connection to bathers who enjoyed the facility nearly 2,000 years ago.
A Site Scarred by Modern Development
While the investigation has provided valuable insights, it has also highlighted the significant damage caused by later construction projects. "The construction of a branched tunnel system in the late 19th century and the installation of canals and pipes in recent decades have repeatedly damaged and reduced the structural integrity of the baths under the marketplace," explained archaeologist Sarah Roth from LAD.
Despite these challenges, this study is the most comprehensive examination of the site in over 50 years and the first to utilise modern archaeological documentation methods. "Some areas were uncovered for the first time since 1849 under archaeological supervision," Roth added. "Until now, the preservation state of the ruins at this site was entirely unknown."
Photo Credit: LAD, Sarah Roth
A UNESCO World Heritage Treasure
Since 2021, the Roman Imperial Baths in Baden-Baden have been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting their cultural and historical significance. This latest research not only enhances our understanding of the baths but also emphasises the need for careful preservation of these ancient structures.
With modern technology and renewed archaeological interest, this extraordinary piece of Roman history is finally being given the attention it deserves. The rediscovery of Baden-Baden’s Roman baths is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire and its remarkable engineering prowess—one that continues to captivate and inspire us today.