For the first time in 180 years, archaeologists uncover new insights about the Imperial Baths of Baden-Baden (photos included).

For the first time in 180 years, researchers have investigated the Roman "Imperial Baths" located beneath the marketplace and collegiate church in Baden-Baden, Germany. These ancient thermal baths, originally known as Aurelia Aquensis, were among the largest bathing complexes in the Baden-Württemberg region, writes Heritage Daily.

Archaeologists from ArchaeoConnect and the State Office for Monument Preservation (LAD) took advantage of recent sewer renovations to examine previously unexplored areas of the site. Sara Roth from LAD explained that the replacement of plumbing in 2024 provided a rare opportunity for extensive research.

In an area of 50 square meters, the team uncovered walls from the Roman era that had not been documented during the 19th-century excavations, as well as hypocaust bricks—indications of an advanced underfloor heating system.

The baths were constructed in the late 1st century AD over the hot springs of Florentinusberg, utilizing geothermal waters that rise from a depth of approximately 2000 meters.

Excavations in the mid-19th century revealed numerous rooms and pools, but only a few large-scale studies have been conducted since then. The latest excavations uncovered multi-phase layers of flooring that once supported marble-clad walls and floors, as well as three well-preserved steps.

This study not only provides new insights into Aurelia Aquensis but also highlights the impact of modern infrastructure projects on this site. According to the researchers, the construction of tunnels in the late 19th century, along with recent channel and pipe laying, has repeatedly damaged the ruins beneath the marketplace.

We also reported on the Etruscan tombs discovered in Italy. Despite the looting by past generations, archaeologists have uncovered numerous artifacts.