The Romans built these baths here because of the natural warm spring water rising up from the earths interior. The water still rises and it is still warm (we know that because we put a finger in the bath although apparantly we found out later, you are not supposed to!). The museum is well worth a visit. When we were there is was full of Chinese tourists snapping away with their beloved cameras! there are many exhibits of Roman remains and artifacts but for us the highlight of the tour was the baths themselves. The large open pool is surounded by beautiful Roman statues and sculptures, Roman soldiers,senators and ladies in flowing robes. The stone flags around the baths are well worn with the passage of Roman bathers feet and sandals and It is not difficult to imagine the scene there in Roman times with men and women, all naked as was the custom bathing in the warm spring water and lounging around the pool area. To assist your imagination there are on the walls of the baths clever film shots of actors in Roman attire bathing and dressing. Next to the main bath is a smaller bath and this is filled with icy cold water for those Romans brave enough to plunge into after thier warm soak! It is all well worth a visit.
