The article offers a reflection based on the reading of several passages from the Epistulae ad Luciulium written by Seneca between 61 and 65 AD, which are of interest for investigating aspects relating to Roman healing and hygiene facilities, both in their articulation with respect to the former, modest private facilities, and in the decorative elements of the early imperial period, with particular regard to the possible presence of vaulted ceilings made of glass or lapis specularis. The prospect of further study highlights the need to carry out archaeometric analyses on fragments of building materials found in both public and private thermal and mineral contexts from the imperial period.
Seneca and the Thermal Baths, between Sobriety and Splendour
Maddalena Bassani
2026-01-01
Abstract
The article offers a reflection based on the reading of several passages from the Epistulae ad Luciulium written by Seneca between 61 and 65 AD, which are of interest for investigating aspects relating to Roman healing and hygiene facilities, both in their articulation with respect to the former, modest private facilities, and in the decorative elements of the early imperial period, with particular regard to the possible presence of vaulted ceilings made of glass or lapis specularis. The prospect of further study highlights the need to carry out archaeometric analyses on fragments of building materials found in both public and private thermal and mineral contexts from the imperial period.
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