One historical aspect of Bath that interested me was the separation of gendered bathing areas in the Roman Baths. Wow, that a lot of saying bath. Bath bath bath. Nonetheless, the ladies bathing area looks like a dream spa day. It was called the East Baths and consisted of 6 different sections. First was the swimming exercise area. This was called the Natatio. Swimming was a very importan part of physical health for the Romans so this was a common form of exercise. Next was the changing room, or Apodyterium, were women would undress and every once in a while remove their body hair. They then move into the Tepidarium, which is where wealthy women would occasionally have attendants cover them in oil to remove any dirt or sweat from pores. After preparation, they moved onto the Calderium, which was a very hot room, heated by oven stones underneath the floors. Here the women would sweat out impurities, and follow this immediately with a plunge into very cold water in the Balneum.
The practice of switching temperatures rapidly was considered healthy for the Romans, as they beleived it would balance the elements of the body. Most of the bathing, especially in the Roman Baths, were centered around Sulis Minerva. At the spring, many people would throw coins into the water, and often times curses. They would engrave messages, usually cursing a thief or wrongdoer, and pray that Minerva being justice to them. The most beautiful example of something thrown into the spring was a beautiful golden broach.
Outside of the baths and other tourist attractions, Bath itself was adorable. It was much smaller than London, but that did not mean there were less tourists. Many of the shops were definitely directed at tourists and visitors, and many stores had souvenirs. However, there were small pockets that felt local and genuine.
Bath was beautiful, and being there made me eager to find a section of the UK where tourists don’t visit very often, and the only attraction is beautiful views and a quiet space. YAY BATH!!!!
Theatre in London U of A 