Arles is a city brimming with historical sites, and one of its most intriguing is the Thermes de Constantin (Baths of Constantine). These Roman baths, dating back to the 4th century AD, provide a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Discover the Baths
The Baths of Constantine, open to the public for a small fee, are partially visible from the street, offering a free peek at this ancient marvel. Constructed from brick and limestone, these baths were likely part of the Empirical Palace of Emperor Constantine the Great. The section you can explore today is just a fraction of the original structure, which once spanned over 40,000 square feet.
Layout of the Baths
In Roman times, public baths were essential for both socializing and hygiene. The baths featured several distinct areas:
- Apodyterium: Changing room
- Palaestra: Exercise area
- Frigidarium: Cold water pool
- Tepidarium: Warm room
- Caldarium: Hot water pools and saunas
What to See
Visitors to the Baths of Constantine will encounter remnants of the caldarium, including the hypocaust, an advanced subfloor heating system, now covered by a modern protective roof. The site also includes praefurnium (furnace openings), several marble-floored pools, and a vaulted apse with arched windows. Some adjoining buildings have integrated parts of the frigidarium into their structures.
Historical Significance
A model in the Museum of Ancient Arles illustrates the full scale of these impressive Roman baths. The Thermes de Constantin is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside other Roman and Romanesque Monuments in Arles.
Getting There
The Thermes de Constantin is conveniently located near the Rhone River. You can access the entrance via rue du Grand-Prieuré.
Ticket Information
- Adult Admission: €3.00
- Combo Ticket Options:
- Pass Advantage: €15.00 (includes Baths of Constantine, Antique Theater, Amphitheater, Cryptoportico, Alyscamps, Cloister of St. Trophime)
- Pass Liberté: €11.00 (1 museum + 4 monuments of your choice + Reattu Museum/Monument)
Visiting the Baths of Constantine offers a journey back in time, revealing the sophisticated engineering and social dynamics of Roman life. Make sure to include this site on your itinerary when exploring the historical treasures of Arles.
