The present publication is preparated with the support of the European Union. Responsibility for the content of this publication is borne solely by the Municipality of Varna and "Sustainable Development" Foundation. By no way does this publication represent the view of the European Union.
Roman thermal baths

Not far from the seaside boulevard, overlooking the Varna bay and beach, is the Museum Site of Roman Thermal Baths. It is located in the old part of Varna. It can be reached by car or on foot from the center of the city. The Roman Thermal Baths of Odesos used to be the biggest public building from the Roman epoch on the territory of modern Bulgaria and the Balkan peninsula. They are fourth in terms of area in the European provinces of the Roman Empire after the thermal baths of Karakala and Diolektian in Rome and the baths in Trir, Germany. The thermal baths functioned until the end of the 3rd century. In 1968 they were announced an architectural monument of culture of national importance. The following parts of the building have been preserved to the present day: the great basilica hall (for meetings and public events); tepidarius (warm room) and frigidarius (cold room) with pools in them; a hypocaust heating system; latrinum (a public toilet).

Address: Varna 9000, 13 San Stefano Str., tel.: + 359 52 / 600 059,

Working hours:

Summer: 10 – 17 h., closed on: Monday,
Winter: 10 – 17 h., closed on: Sunday and Monday.

Lecture 1: Greek and Roman history of the antique city of Odesos (modern Varna)
Duration: 15 min.

Lecture 2: The Roman thermal baths in Odesos – the largest public bath in the Balkan provinces of the Roman Empire.
Duration: 30 min.

Lecture 3: The Roman thermal baths in Odesos – architecture, functional and public function.
Duration: 60 min.

A small part of the thermal baths belongs to the St. Atanas Church, built in 1836 for the Greek bishopric church. In the 20s of the 20th C it was given to the Russian whiteguards who could worship there. Since the 60s icons form the Revival Museum in Varna are exhibited there. Some of the original icons of the church are now in the specialized exhibition of the Archeological museum. 

Last updated: 19.01.2005