Step Back to Rome: The Hidden Warm Baths of Misterbianco, Italy

The Terme Romane in Misterbianco represent the remnants of a Roman aqueduct, built between the late 2nd and the 8th century AD. These warm baths were a vital component of the ancient infrastructure, transporting water from Santa Maria di Licodia to Catania through the surrounding towns where the river flowed. Named after the ancient aqueduct by the local government (Via delle Terme), one of the two streets crossing the square. The terme were first documented by Ignazio Paternò Castello, Prince of Biscari. Other details about the structure suggest that it was re-purposed into housing, with urban development following in the 1960s. In 1998, further Roman aqueduct remains were discovered near the square, along Via Giuseppe Garibaldi. Since then, the site has been kept distinctly hidden, with a life-sized nativity scene set up during the Christmas season.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons