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Roman Thermae of Varna
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ruins
The Roman Thermae of Varna are the most significant ancient ruins in the city, bearing witness to the importance of the ancient city of Odessos within the Roman Empire. Built in the late 2nd century AD, likely between 150 and 200 AD, they served for over a century as a social and cultural center for the local citizens. Spanning an area of approximately 7,000 square meters, this complex is the largest Roman bathhouse in the Balkans and the fourth largest in all of Europe. The thermae featured a sophisticated underfloor heating system known as a hypocaust, which circulated hot air to warm the massive brick walls and marble floors. Today, visitors can marvel at the remains of the frigidarium, tepidarium, and caldarium, along with impressive vaulted arches that still stand up to 18 meters high. The facility was partially abandoned in the late 3rd century following Gothic incursions and was scientifically excavated in the 20th century.
- Location: Bulgaria
- Top sights: Yuzhen plazh · Tsentralen plazh · Plazh Asparuhovo
- Nearby: Galata (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 4 | 5 | 7 | 11 | 16 | 22 | 24 | 25 | 21 | 16 | 11 | 6 |
| Rain mm | 53 | 38 | 41 | 30 | 43 | 50 | 46 | 30 | 50 | 60 | 43 | 54 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Roman Thermae of Varna are an outdoor archaeological site open as a museum. You can visit the grounds for an entry fee.
Typical hours
The site is typically open daily from April to October, often from 9 am to 5 pm. In winter, it may be closed or have reduced hours.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the site. In covered areas, flash may be prohibited - please follow signs.
Time needed
Allow about 30-45 minutes for a walk through the thermae ruins and the adjacent exhibitions. History enthusiasts can easily spend an hour.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby Archaeological Museum of Varna, which displays many finds from the thermae. The Oceanographic Park is also close.
Getting there
The thermae are located in central Varna on Han Krum Street. They are easily reachable on foot or by bus; parking is available on nearby streets.
Insider tip
Combine your visit with a walk along the ancient city wall right adjacent. Take time to admire the well-preserved hypocaust heating systems.
Geography
Facts
- The baths were constructed in the late 2nd century AD around 150-200 AD.
- They are the 4th largest Roman baths in Europe by total area.
- The surviving walls reach an impressive height of up to 18 meters.
- The complex covers an area of approximately 7,000 square meters.
- They featured a typical Roman layout with cold, warm, and hot rooms.
- The facility was in active use until the late 3rd century AD.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Roman Thermae of Varna (3)
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Frequently asked questions
How large were the Roman baths?
At over 7,000 sqm, they are the fourth-largest preserved Roman baths in Europe.
Is walking on the ruins allowed?
There are marked paths; climbing on the old walls is strictly forbidden.
When were the baths in use?
They were built in the late 2nd century AD and served as a bathhouse for about 100 years.
Are the ruins located in the city center?
Yes, they are in the southeastern part of modern Varna, near the port.
Is there evening lighting?
The site is often lit at night, offering an impressive view from the outside.
Roman Thermae of Varna: where is it located?
Roman Thermae of Varna is located in Bulgaria.
Roman Thermae of Varna: what is there to see?
Highlights include Yuzhen plazh, Tsentralen plazh, Plazh Asparuhovo.
Roman Thermae of Varna: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Roman Thermae of Varna: why is it worth visiting?
The Roman Thermae of Varna are the most significant ancient ruins in the city, bearing witness to the importance of the ancient city of Odessos within the Roman Empire.
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