Roman Thermae in Varna

Today, after many years of archaeological excavations and the discovery of many monuments of ancient architecture, it is difficult to imagine at least one part of modern Europe that was not visited by the Romans. Archaeologists find Roman baths, sanctuaries, amphitheaters, aqueducts, and triumphal arches everywhere. Especially many traces of the great Roman Empire (apart from modern Italy, of course) can be found in the Balkans, in the cities of sunny Bulgaria.

Therefore, one of the most visited attractions of Varna, a popular seaside resort, is a whole complex of ancient Roman baths. It is located in the historic city center, close to the main port, a favorite leisure area for guests and residents of Varna.

Almost all the ruins dating back to the 2nd century have been examined by archaeologists, with the exception of those hidden from human eyes by a dense layer of earth and houses built above them. The ancient complex was first discovered at the beginning of the 20th century, but it was only many years later that Bulgarian scientists, led by archaeologist Milko Mirchev, managed to excavate the mazes of underground galleries. The most difficult task was to determine the date of their construction and the purpose of the buildings.

Previously, there was the city of Odessus. The discovered buildings were recognized as antique baths, and the coins dating back to the time of the Roman Emperor Lucius Septimius Severus found during excavations made it possible to date them to the 2nd-3rd centuries. This is evidenced by the architectural style of the entire bath complex.

Nowadays, the famous Varna bath complex is one of the largest Roman thermae. The ancient walls, richly decorated with reliefs, show visitors what the culture was like in the first centuries of our era. The most noteworthy details include the window frames made of marble in the shape of Hercules's dagger, as well as the ruins of an 18-meter stone tower with an area of ​​7 thousand square meters, which once rose above all the thermae.