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Roman Thermae: A Glimpse into Ancient Odessos

Discover the ancient Roman Baths of Varna, the largest in the Balkans, offering a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of Odessos.

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Explore the remarkably preserved Roman Thermae in Varna, the largest Roman baths in the Balkans, dating back to the late 2nd century AD. Wander through the ruins of this once-bustling social hub, imagining life in the ancient city of Odessos.

A brief summary to Roman Thermae Varna

Local tips

  • Visit during the weekdays to avoid larger crowds and have a more intimate experience.
  • Consider joining a guided tour for in-depth knowledge about the history and architecture of the Thermae.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they may vary seasonally.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in Varna's city center, the Roman Thermae are easily accessible on foot. From the Varna Archaeological Museum, walk east along ul. Knyaz Boris I towards the sea. Turn left onto ul. San Stefano and continue for about 1 kilometer. The Roman Thermae will be on your right. This walk offers a pleasant glimpse of the city's architecture and vibrant atmosphere. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Roman Thermae via public transport, find your way to a nearby bus stop. Several bus lines, including 409, 148, and 17A, stop near the Thermae. Disembark at the 'Baseyna' or 'San Stefano' stop. From there, it's a short walk to the entrance. A single public transport ticket costs approximately 1.00 BGN.

  • Taxi

    For a direct route, take a taxi from anywhere in Varna. Provide the driver with the address: ul. San Stefano, 9000 Varna. The taxi fare should be around 9-15 BGN depending on your starting location and traffic conditions. Be sure to agree on an estimated fare with the driver before starting your ride.

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Discover more about Roman Thermae Varna

The Roman Thermae in Varna offer a captivating journey back to the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Constructed in the late 2nd century AD, during the rule of the Roman Empire over the city then known as Odessos, these baths stand as a testament to ancient architectural prowess and cultural sophistication. As the largest Roman baths in the Balkans and the fourth-largest in Europe, they provide a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and advanced engineering of the era. Covering an impressive 7,000 square meters, the complex once soared to heights of over 20 meters. The symmetrical layout included key facilities such as the apodyterium (changing room), frigidarium (cold pool), tepidarium (warm pool), caldarium (hot pool), and a palaestra for social and athletic activities. The intricate hypocaust system, an underfloor heating innovation, highlights the advanced engineering of the time. More than just a place for bathing, the Thermae served as a crucial social hub where the men of Odessos gathered to discuss important public affairs. The complex functioned until the end of the 3rd century AD. Over the centuries, the ruins have been repurposed, including as a citadel during the Ottoman period and later as a storage facility and even a prison. Today, the Roman Thermae are a major historical landmark in Varna, attracting historians, archaeologists, and tourists alike. During the summer, the site transforms into a vibrant cultural venue, hosting concerts and performances within its unique historical setting.

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