Meeting at the thermae: A socio-spatial analysis of imperial baths in the city of Rome

Rome’s thermae were a crucial element of urban life due to their capacity to accommodate a large number of people, and their importance in the everyday life of the capital’s citizens (Yegül 2010). In contrast to other types of public buildings reflecting the strict hierarchy of Roman society, the architectural layout of thermae appeared to avoid segregation based on status. The practice of bathing in the nude undeniably acted as an equalizer too, countering the usual distinctions made through clothing. Despite such evidence, G. Fagan (1999) has rightly suggested that members of the elite were able to recreate differentiations within the thermae. A shortcoming of his theory is yet the focus on sociological aspects, neglecting the architecture of the baths. This presentation aims to go further by combining spatial analysis with sociological methodology. To which extent were imperial thermae intentionally designed to encourage encounters between classes and individuals?
To begin, a reassessment of the well-known ground plans of Roman imperial thermae is necessary to identify their potential as spaces for social interaction. Applying the theory of space syntax proposed by B. Hillier and J. Hanson (1984), an analysis of the arrangement of rooms will be conducted to identify areas where visitors were most likely to engage in encounters. Once the spaces which facilitated the most contact between individuals have been established, the examination will shift to literary evidence, in particular contemporary authors describing the specific nature of these social interactions. A visit at the thermae encompassed more than just people from different classes gathering; it was a daily ritual that fostered exchanges between individuals. Senators and equites could display their power and wealth, while “parasites” or clientes sought to encounter a more or less benevolent sponsor. In this light, these monumental buildings deeply contributed to the cohesion of Rome’s population.