September sees opening to the public of the basement of the Baths of Caracalla

Have you ever been to the basement of the Baths of Caracalla? Until September 29, the Special Superintendence of Rome is promoting evening openings of the archaeological complex. Visits that will be even more suggestive, with the favor of the stars. Definitely special, because for the occasion even the most "remote" places, such as the undergrounds and the Mithraeum, will be accessible. This particular space created in one of the underground corridors of the site is opened to the public only on special occasions. It was brought to light in 1912 and is among the largest in Rome.

In ancient times the mithraea were places designated for the worship of the god Mithras, to whom the Severan family (i.e., the family to which the emperor Caracalla belonged) was very close. In the center of the space designated for the god Mithras there was also an altar and a sculpture probably depicting the deity.

The archaeological area that you can visit is very large; its atmospheres, especially at night, can only give you very intense emotions and feelings.

The research program we carry out in Caracalla allows us to unveil unexpected novelties: the paintings in the Vigna Guidi domus with oriental and Roman deities create a direct link with the Mithraeum and mystery cults. We believe that the public will appreciate this work with the same enthusiasm that they reserved for the Baths in August with nearly 19,000 visitors, stressed Mirella Serlorenzi, director of the monument.

The Baths of Caracalla (or Thermae Antoninianae) built (according to sources) by Emperor Septimius Severus, father of the man who gave the grandiose bath complex its name, represented a true record at the time. They were in fact the largest ever built. Today they are an example of the great design and architectural skill of the Romans; they were completed, with exteriors, after the death of Caracalla.

Water reached the imposing structure starting from the Acqua Marcia aqueduct. The branch that allowed its inflow to the baths was called the aqua Antoniniana. Supported by the Arch of Drusus it passed the Appian Way and reached its destination, to the pleasure of those who habitually frequented the baths, not only for the well-being of the body but also for studying and reading in pleasant surroundings.

Today, the spa hosts concerts and cultural events. The Italian opera tradition finds a venue of great charm and prestige in Caracalla. At this site, tradition and history blend perfectly with the present. In addition, Michelangelo Pistoletto's works are located there: the Reintegrated Apple and the symbol of the Third Paradise (we recommend exploring Pistoletto's work on man and nature, on possible sustainability), and Giuseppe Penone's Ideas of Stone. Those who have a chance to be in Rome by September 29 should not miss the opportunity to experience the Baths of Caracalla, with its underground passages, by night.