Terme di Cellomaio

The Baths of Cellomaio preserve a substantial Roman building within Albano Laziale. Brick-faced concrete walls, large arched openings and several levels reveal the scale of the bathing complex associated with the Second Parthica Legion.

Why it matters

The baths connect daily military life with imperial patronage. Their construction under Caracalla is traditionally explained in relation to his efforts to restore the loyalty of the garrison after Geta's murder.

What to notice

The quadrangular block has substantial corner buttresses. Lower spaces served structural and service functions, while the upper levels accommodated the principal halls. Large windows and traces of marble or mosaic flooring recall the quality of the interior. Later alterations reveal uses very different from the original bathing functions.

Context and history

Septimius Severus established the Second Parthica Legion, which was stationed at Albano in the early third century. Caracalla's baths formed part of the facilities associated with that military settlement. The building was later adapted as a medieval stronghold and subsequently for housing. These changes helped preserve major portions of the Roman structure within the developing town.