We have posted many articles about San Pedro’s modernisation, but it’s also important to highlight its historic heritage, as the town has two very important monuments with very interesting history—and in this blog we start with the vaulted Roman baths.
Vaulted Roman baths with hydraulic heritage
The Roman baths are situated in Guadalmina on Calle 6A, 302 in San Pedro, just ten metres from the beach. Although set on private property it is possible to arrange a visit by speaking to the tourist office (see more info below).
This monumental and unique building used thermal heat to supply the needs of the local population, maintaining the luxury and sumptuousness that characterised these establishments in the Roman Empire during the second century A.D.
There are several vaulted rooms that surround a central space with an annular vault and an oculus. The building had a second floor, of which only the paving is partially preserved. The remains of the vaulted thermal building have recently been worked on to ensure their proper conservation with further excavation pending that will complete the information we know about the building.
This site corresponds to a thermal building from the Roman era, which was discovered back in 1926 and is considered to be one of the most unique locations preserved throughout the Spanish territory. The site is located on the right bank of the Guadalmina river and next to the towers are a series of pools intended for salting fish and derived sauces, as well as a watchtower of a later age. The importance and typology of the remains found are probably indicators of the presence in this area of the Roman city of Cilniana.
The hot springs are essentially made from lime mortar and brick reinforcements, which would later be coated with marble slabs, at least in some parts. On the other hand, its conservation status is very important, because it still maintains part of a vaulted roof, as well as two floors in height, plus the infrastructure corresponding to the heating system.
To book a free guided visit that are held in the morning on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, email the tourist office and request a tour in English: otsanpedro@marbella.es
Tourist office – Marqués del Duero, 69
Images and information courtesy of: Diputación de Málaga, Turismo
