• Archaeologists have discovered a **private bathhouse** in Pompeii, dating back 2,000 years.
• The **thermal complex** includes hot, warm, and cold rooms, along with a lavish plunge pool.
• This find is believed to be the **largest thermal complex in a private residence** in Pompeii.
• Recent excavations also revealed other buildings and the remains of individuals from the tragic volcanic eruption.
• The director of the Pompeii archaeological park, Gabriel Zuchtriegel, highlighted its significance for understanding Roman banquets and social life.

Pompeii, the famed ancient Roman city devastated by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 70 AD, has yielded yet another remarkable archaeological find: a large and intricately decorated **private thermal complex**, as reported by AP News. This recently unearthed bathhouse, adorned with exquisite mosaics, comprises multiple rooms designed for various temperature treatments, akin to modern-day spas. “We have here perhaps the largest thermal complex in a private house in Pompeii,” remarked Zuchtriegel, who oversees the archaeological site.

The discovery occurred in **Regio IX**, a largely unexamined section of the Pompeii park, where excavators continue to unearth vital remnants of daily life among its ancient inhabitants. Zuchtriegel noted the dual function of these baths, stating that "wealthy inhabitants often bathed and then hosted banquets, highlighting their affluent lifestyle.” The facility could accommodate about 30 individuals, featuring a **calidarium** designed for warmth and a substantial cooling tub, showcasing the luxurious nature of Roman private baths.

In addition to the **thermal complex**, archaeologists have recently uncovered other significant structures, including a bakery and a laundry shop, alongside the remains of three unfortunate souls who perished during the catastrophic eruption. These once-thriving locales provide profound insight into the social life and customs of the Pompeian elite, embodying what Zuchtriegel describes as part of the captivating **'Pompeii effect'**, reflecting the city's abrupt end yet remarkably preserved state, as highlighted by CBS News.

Such discoveries not only enrich the narrative of Pompeii but also foster a deeper understanding of the interactions and daily festivities surrounding this historic site, drawing continued interest from scholars and visitors alike.