Recent archaeological findings at the ancient city of Sagalassos in southwestern Turkey have provided new evidence of how the inhabitants utilized a Roman public bath complex, shedding light on their daily routines and social interactions. Fragments of glass bottles and clay flasks analyzed chemically revealed traces of oils and cosmetic substances, suggesting these materials were used for personal hygiene, massage, and beauty rituals during the Roman period.
The complex itself, dating back to the reign of Emperor Augustus (27 BC – 14 AD), measures approximately 32.5 × 40 meters and included specialized areas for hot, warm, and cold water, along with sophisticated water channels and underfloor heating systems, highlighting advanced Roman architectural and urban planning techniques.
Chemical analyses performed on fragments of glass bottles and clay flasks have detected the presence of oils and cosmetic residues. These discoveries strongly indicate that these substances were likely used for personal hygiene, therapeutic massages, and beautification rituals. The bathhouse's sophisticated design features distinct areas for hot, warm, and cold water, supported by an advanced underfloor heating system and intricate water channels, demonstrating advanced Roman architectural and urban planning capabilities.
Professor Jeroen Poblome of KU Leuven University emphasized the bathhouse's substantial size relative to the settlement, noting its accessibility to individuals from all social classes. He observed that visitors would bring small containers and move between different sections of the complex to relax. Poblome stated, "The bathhouse was a social space for people. Apart from its use for cleaning and ritualistic baths, they went there for social interaction, to spend time together, to see and be seen."
Evidence, including a recovered hairpin, suggests that women and children also used the baths during specific hours, highlighting the inclusive nature of this communal space. The inhabitants of Sagalassos appear to have highly valued personal hygiene and the use of shared facilities. Scholars suggest that this emphasis on cleanliness may have contributed to a lower incidence of parasites and worms compared to other regions of the Roman world, and possibly to a higher life expectancy within the city, though direct statistical data is lacking.
The archaeological team's objective is to reconstruct the nuances of daily life, moving beyond grand historical narratives. The Sagalassos bathhouse stands as a testament to the Roman appreciation for well-being and community. The presence of cosmetic materials and oils points to a culture that embraced self-care and shared experiences. The very structure of the baths, with its varied temperature rooms and sophisticated engineering, reflects a society that prioritized both physical health and social cohesion. Ongoing excavations continue to illuminate the rich tapestry of life in this ancient city, offering a unique window into Roman civilization.