Caldarium

A Caldarium is a heated room or bath within ancient Roman baths (thermae) designed to provide a warm, relaxing environment. It typically featured a hot, constantly heated pool or basin where users would soak to relax muscles and promote circulation. The Caldarium was part of a sophisticated bathing complex that used advanced heating systems, like underground furnaces, to maintain high temperatures. It served as the warmest space in the bathhouse, often accompanied by other areas like the Tepidarium (warm room) and Frigidarium (cold bath). The Caldarium played a central role in Roman communal bathing practices and social interaction.