The baths at Caracalla covered an area of 1000 sq ft, and those of Diocletian had accommodation for 3200 bathers. Facilities were available for a wide range of gymnastics with every evidence of luxury.

Roman baths were similar to the modern Turkish bath, with rooms of different temperatures. Heating was by radiant heat from hot air circulating beneath the raised floor.

The photograph above is from Masada in Israel, built on high cliffs overlooking the Dead Sea. Built by the Romans, captured by the Jewish rebel army in 66 AD, recaptured by the Romans four years later. It was the last stronghold of the Jews against the Roman army. After a lengthy siege the 1000 defenders and their families killed themselves rather than be captured into slavery.

The original Roman fort and palaces for King Herod of course included the latest in raised floor technology.