Roman imperial baths discovered in Serbian palace tower

Archaeologists in eastern Serbia have discovered unique imperial Roman baths located within a palace tower. The site, found in Vrelo-Šarkamen near Negotin, is linked to Emperor Maximinus Daza, who ruled from 310 to 313 AD.

The discovery is considered exceptional due to its unusual architectural placement. Unlike typical linear Roman bath layouts, these private baths were built into the lower level of a large southwestern tower. The circular space featured a dome with six openings for illumination and included three pools, a steam room (sudatorium), and a hypocaust system for underfloor heating.

Researchers noted that the adaptation of these luxury facilities to a tower structure has no clear parallels in other known Roman imperial residences. The find provides new insights into how high-ranking officials maintained luxury and hygiene during periods of political instability in the early 4th century.