The Thermae at Baden-Baden, Schwarzwald, (D)

The springs of Baden-Baden were already known before the Romans came to Baden-Baden (city name means 'to bath/bathe'). Already before the Romans the warm springs were known. In Data :

- A.D. 69 - 79 : During Vespasian's rule the VIII Legion occupies parts of the Northern Schwarwald and starts building a 'soldiers' thermae. The vicus near the Castellae is called 'Aquae'.

- 117-138 : Possible town foundation referring to the emperor Hadrian by an inscription of somewhat doubtful authenticity. He and his predessesor Hadrian probably both visited the city. Even by Roman standards the city was not a big one, but loved because of it's baths and healing qualities.

- 213-217 : Not only does the town honor the ruling emperor by changing it's name into 'Aurelia Aquensis' (one of Caracalla's offical names (in full : Marcus Aurelius Antoninus)). But the baths are being extensively 'revamped' on order of the imperator of the day.

- About 260 the Allamans occupy city and area. The new neighbours quite changed the outlook of the city and baths of which during the ages only 10 % would remain.

- 1847 : The Friedrichsbaths are being built and the remains of Roman vapour baths, well preserved, were discovered just below the New Castle.

- 19xx : Whilst building the 'Baths Garage', the ruins of the former soldiers baths are found.

- 2003 : Afer a 8 year closure the Roman bathing ruins are reopened to the public.