Thermes de Constantin

Roman Site in Arles

The Thermes de Constantin, also known as the thermes du Nord, are ancient Roman baths dating back to the 4th century. These historical baths are situated in the picturesque city of Arles, nestled along the banks of the Rhône River.

Historical Background

The construction of these baths commenced at the onset of the 4th century, a period marked by the residency of Emperor Constantine in Arelate (now known as Arles). During the Middle Ages, the baths were mistakenly referred to as the “Palace of Trouille,” leading to the misconception that they were the remnants of a palace built by Emperor Constantine.

The remnants of the baths gained recognition as historic monuments in the 1840 list, with the Roman wall and adjacent cellars receiving similar classification in 1922. The city of Arles undertook the renovation of these ancient baths between 1980 and 1995, restoring them to their former glory.

Architectural Description

Among the Roman baths in France, the Thermes de Constantin stand out as one of the best-preserved sites, alongside the Thermes de Chassenon in Charente and the Thermes de Cluny in Paris. Excavation efforts in the 19th century played a significant role in revealing the baths as they appear today.

The visible remains of the baths predominantly showcase the caldarium, which features a sophisticated heating system known as hypocaust, comprising three pools (solia) with two rectangular shapes and one in a semi-circular apse adorned with three windows, covered by a cul-de-four vault. The caldarium is connected to the laconicum (dry oven) and the tepidarium (warm bath), culminating to the west in a semi-circular apse.

The Thermes de Constantin appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Arles!

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Visiting Thermes de Constantin

Hours:

01/03 to 30/04: daily between 9 am and 6 pm.

01/05 to 30/09, daily between 9 am and 7 pm.

01/10 to 31/10, daily between 9 am and 6 pm.

Closed exceptionally on May 1st, January 1st and December 25th.

Price:

Adults €5 Children €2.5

Address: Thermes de Constantin, Rue du Grand Prieuré, Arles, France

Duration: 25 minutes