More than a millennium after its waters last flowed, the historic baths of Caracalla in Rome have been witness to a poignant revival as water returned to its ancient precincts. This was indeed a surprise and welcoming change. If reports are to go by, this significant event unfolded recently, which was celebrated by a captivating spectacle: ballet dancers gracefully dancing on a platform positioned above a newly installed pool.
As per the records, built originally in 212 AD under the auspices of Emperor Septimius Severus, the expansive thermal complex was completed during the reign of his successor, Caracalla. Spanning across a vast area, these baths stand as one of the grandest structures of antiquity. Over the centuries, they have transformed into a cherished tourist attraction, and are known for frequently hosting cultural events, such as concerts and theatrical performances.
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Recently, local authorities made an ambitious endeavour to reintroduce water to this historic site. A pivotal aspect of this initiative was the creation of a sizable, shallow pool, christened the Specchio, or ‘mirror’ in Italian. Designed by architects Hannes Peer and Paolo Bornello, this rectangular pool measures 42 m by 32 m and is just 10 cm deep. Its purpose is to evoke the grandeur of the Natatio, the principal swimming pool typically found at the heart of ancient Roman baths.
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Mirella Serlorenzi, the director of the site, aptly remarked, “Water, an element absent for more than 1,000 years, returns in a decisive yet respectful manner to the ruins.” The installation, embellished with submerged water jets and artistic lighting effects, stands as a testament to Rome’s ongoing commitment to restoring its ancient landmarks to their original splendour.
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The inaugural performance, choreographed by Iratxe Ansa and Igor Bacovich and presented by Aterballetto, marked the commencement of a series of cultural events scheduled to grace the hallowed grounds of Caracalla throughout the spring and summer months. This harmonious blend of contemporary artistry and ancient heritage promises to captivate visitors and breathe new life into Rome’s storied past.
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