Archaeologists in Nijmegen have uncovered the largest Roman bath complex ever discovered in the Netherlands, expanding on a partial discovery made in 1992. Excavations at the Waalfront area, prompted by new construction, revealed not only the complete bathhouse but also surrounding residential areas, streets, a tower, and thousands of artifacts. The complex, dating back to around 1800-1900 years ago, was located in Ulpia Noviomagus, the Roman name for Nijmegen, which received city rights from Emperor Trajanus around 100 AD. Spanning at least 4900 square meters, the bathhouse is significantly larger than previously found Roman baths in Voorburg and Heerlen, indicating a high level of prosperity among the city’s inhabitants. Notable finds include jewelry, signet rings, coins, fragments of bronze statues, and a bronze bust of the Roman god Bacchus. Remarkably well-preserved features, such as marble-lined walls, mosaic floors, water drainage systems, and a hypocaust heating system, offer insight into the luxurious nature of the facility.
