Archaeologists discover the largest Roman baths ever found in the Netherlands

Sunday 21 June 2026 - 08:30

Archaeologists have uncovered the largest Roman bath complex ever discovered in the Netherlands, shedding new light on the wealth and importance of the ancient city of Ulpia Noviomagus, known today as Nijmegen.

The remarkable discovery was made during excavations in the eastern part of the country and includes the remains of an extensive bathhouse complex dating back nearly 1,900 years. Researchers believe the structure was built shortly after the reign of Roman Emperor Trajan, around the beginning of the second century A.D.

The site stands out for its impressive size and luxurious design. Archaeologists found evidence that the interiors were decorated with marble wall coverings and black-and-white limestone floor tiles, materials that reflected the prosperity and sophistication of the settlement during the Roman era.

In addition to the bath complex, excavations revealed urban features such as residential blocks connected by streets, elegant townhouses, and a tower. These findings suggest that the area was a thriving urban center with a well-developed infrastructure and a high standard of living.

Thousands of artifacts were also recovered from the site, providing valuable insight into everyday life in the Roman province. Among the discoveries were coins, jewelry, bone hairpins, gaming dice, and a bronze bust depicting Bacchus, the Roman god associated with wine, celebration, and fertility.

Historians say the discovery highlights the strategic and economic significance of Ulpia Noviomagus, one of the most important Roman settlements in the region. The quality of the architecture and the richness of the objects found indicate that the city enjoyed considerable prosperity during the height of Roman influence in northern Europe.

Experts believe the findings will contribute significantly to the understanding of Roman urban life beyond the empire’s traditional Mediterranean heartland. The excavation also demonstrates how advanced archaeological research continues to reveal important chapters of Europe’s ancient past.

As studies continue, the newly discovered complex is expected to provide valuable information about Roman engineering, social life, and cultural practices in what is now the Netherlands.