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Piscina Mirabilis: A Roman Water Cathedral

Explore the Piscina Mirabilis, an ancient Roman cistern in Bacoli, a marvel of engineering and a testament to Roman ingenuity in water management.

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The Piscina Mirabilis is an ancient Roman cistern in Bacoli, Italy, built during the reign of Emperor Augustus to supply fresh water to the Roman fleet stationed at Misenum. This vast underground structure, resembling a subterranean cathedral, is one of the largest cisterns built by the Romans.

A brief summary to Piscina Mirabilis

Local tips

  • Book your visit in advance, as entry is often limited and reservations are required.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves walking on uneven surfaces and climbing stairs.
  • Bring a flashlight or headlamp to better appreciate the darker areas of the cistern.
  • Consider visiting during the less crowded hours to fully experience the tranquility and grandeur of the space.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions in the Phlegraean Fields, such as the Archaeological Park of Cumae or the Aragonese Castle.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Napoli Centrale Station, take the Metro Line 2 train to Campi Flegrei. Then, take bus line 101 to the Bacoli - Via Lungolago stop. From there, it is approximately a 10-minute walk to Piscina Mirabilis. Alternatively, take the Cumana train from Montesanto station in Naples to Torregaveta, then the 'Baia – Torregaveta' bus to 'Bacoli – Centro', followed by a short walk. A single bus or train ticket within Naples typically costs €1.10 - €1.60.

  • Walking

    From the center of Bacoli (e.g., the 'Bacoli - Centro' bus stop), follow Via Roma, then turn onto Via Piscina Mirabile. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes, and the route is well-signposted. Note that the walk involves a slight uphill climb. No costs are involved.

  • Taxi

    From Naples city center (e.g., Piazza Garibaldi), a taxi to Piscina Mirabilis takes approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between €60 and €80 for the trip. There are usually taxis available near major tourist hubs in Naples.

  • Driving

    From Naples, take the Tangenziale (A56) and exit at Pozzuoli/Arco Felice/Bacoli. Follow the signs for Bacoli and Via Miseno. Parking is available near the site entrance at Azienda Agricola Piscina Mirabilis, with parking fees around €1. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during the summer months.

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Discover more about Piscina Mirabilis

The Piscina Mirabilis, located in Bacoli near Naples, is a remarkably well-preserved example of Roman engineering. Constructed during the Augustan Age (late 1st century BC) , this immense cistern served as a vital water supply for the Classis Misenensis, the Roman Navy's western fleet based at the nearby port of Misenum. The fleet required a constant and reliable source of fresh water, and the Piscina Mirabilis was built to fulfill that need. The cistern is entirely underground, carved out of the tuff rock. Measuring 70 meters long, 25 meters wide, and 15 meters high, it could hold over 12,000 cubic meters of water. The structure is divided into five naves by rows of cruciform pillars (48 in total) that support the vaulted ceiling. This design gives the space the appearance of a grand subterranean cathedral, an effect enhanced by the play of light filtering in from openings above. The Piscina Mirabilis was fed by the Aqua Augusta, an aqueduct that brought water from springs near Serino, approximately 100 kilometers away. The water was collected and stored in the cistern before being distributed to the fleet and surrounding areas. A settling tank was used to purify the water. In later centuries, after its use as a cistern declined, the Piscina Mirabilis became a popular stop on the Grand Tour in the 18th century, attracting visitors such as Mozart, Dumas, and Goethe. Today, it remains a fascinating historical site, offering a glimpse into the advanced engineering and logistical capabilities of the Roman Empire. Visiting the Piscina Mirabilis offers a unique experience of exploring a vast, ancient, underground space. The sheer scale of the cistern and the architectural ingenuity of its design are truly impressive.

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