Context brings the brightest minds to your living room with perspective-shifting online lectures.

A Day at The Spa: History of Roman Baths with Livia Galante
Learn with Livia Galante

A Day at The Spa: History of Roman Baths with Livia Galante

No events are scheduled at this time. Want to be notified when it’s back? Click the blue button to the right and we’ll notify you.

Can't make this time? A video recording will be sent to all participants after the seminar.

 

Baths in ancient Rome were social places. They were where people met, traded affairs and plotted. They were also where people worked out, plunged in the pools, relaxed and had massages. People from all walks of life, rich and poor, went to the baths on a daily basis. The rich went to show their power followed by slaves and attendants. The poor went to enjoy the heat of the steam rooms and the reinvigorating cold water of the outdoor pool.
“Livia is so bright and had lots to share.”
This conversation will take you in the second largest thermal complex of Rome, an extraordinary facility: the Baths of Caracalla. Built at the beginning of the 3rd Century CE, their ruins can still be seen today, very close to the Circus Maximus and the Palatine Hill in Rome. We will learn about the complicated and amazing hydraulic engineering that permitted this enormous complex to work and how the water was heated and distributed in the pools. We will follow a Roman citizen in their daily routine to understand better what life was like for the everyday Roman during a session at the spa and get a sense of how spas have evolved somewhat differently today.
“I adore Livia as a guide. Her passion and enthusiasm for Roman archaeology are so motivating for me to learn more. I can't wait to return to Rome and sign up for more tours with her!”
Led by an expert on Ancient Roman Topography, Livia Galante, this interactive seminar will focus on the Baths of Caracalla and the function of the baths in ancient Roman society. Designed to inform curiosity as well as future travels, participants will come away with an increased comprehension of the history of the city as well as information about buildings and building techniques, frescoes, ancient technology.

Livia obtained a degree in Archaeology at the Sapienza University of Rome and has a Master's degree in the History and Conservation of Cultural Heritage from the University of Roma Tre. Her main field of interest is ancient Roman topography and early Christian architecture; however, she is an accomplished scholar whose teaching ability extends to the Renaissance and Baroque Rome. As a native Roman, Livia is very enthusiastic about sharing the deep love and knowledge she has for her hometown with clients.

This conversation is suitable for all ages.

90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.


Customer Reviews

Based on 8 reviews
75%
(6)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
13%
(1)
13%
(1)
J
Joni Baird (Houston, US)

Guest did not leave comment

S
Sandra S -- Boston (Saugus, US)
An In-depth Look at the Communal Baths and Background Culture

This was a most fascinating and intensive look at the construction, use, and history of Roman baths with a focus on the huge ones. The sketches of how they may have looked and operated was very informative. How inventive these Romans were. They were not just for bathing but provided a community social club also! Inclusion of some of the statues and decorations was an added, interesting portion.
Plus, the animated and professional delivery by Livia is always a pleasure to be a part of. And, I learned a tidbit of trivia: how the word, spa, originated: (Salus Per Aquam -- health through water). Absolutely loved this seminar!

S
Susan

Today’s class and instructor were great

J
Jane

For a short time-you are transported to another world at another time. Not only informative-but very fun!! Thank you

A
Anonymous

Informative and personal touch

12

Customer Reviews

Based on 8 reviews
75%
(6)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
13%
(1)
13%
(1)
J
Joni Baird (Houston, US)

Guest did not leave comment

S
Sandra S -- Boston (Saugus, US)
An In-depth Look at the Communal Baths and Background Culture

This was a most fascinating and intensive look at the construction, use, and history of Roman baths with a focus on the huge ones. The sketches of how they may have looked and operated was very informative. How inventive these Romans were. They were not just for bathing but provided a community social club also! Inclusion of some of the statues and decorations was an added, interesting portion.
Plus, the animated and professional delivery by Livia is always a pleasure to be a part of. And, I learned a tidbit of trivia: how the word, spa, originated: (Salus Per Aquam -- health through water). Absolutely loved this seminar!

S
Susan

Today’s class and instructor were great

J
Jane

For a short time-you are transported to another world at another time. Not only informative-but very fun!! Thank you

A
Anonymous

Informative and personal touch

12