Terme di Como Romana

Roman Site in Como

Terme Como
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Riccardo Ortelli

The Terme di Como Romana offers a rare window into the early centuries of Como's urban life. Dating back to the 1st century AD, these ancient Roman baths were once part of Novum Comum, the Roman settlement that laid the foundations for the modern city. Hidden for centuries and rediscovered in the late 20th century, the site is one of the top attractions in Como for travelers fascinated by archaeology and ancient engineering.

Although the surviving ruins are fragmentary, they allow visitors to step back into an era when public bathing was a central social and cultural activity. The Terme di Como Romana is a great place to visit on a walking tour of Como, especially for those who want to understand how daily life unfolded in the Roman city that once occupied this same ground.

History and Significance of Terme di Como Romana

The Roman baths of Como were constructed in the 1st century AD during a period of significant urban development under the Roman Empire. Novum Comum was an important regional center, and like many Roman cities, it included a complex network of public baths designed for hygiene, relaxation, and social interaction. These spaces were not merely utilitarian; they were integral to community life and served as gathering points for citizens of all statuses.

The excavated remains include distinctive sections of the frigidarium, tepidarium, and caldarium, illustrating the sophisticated heating systems engineered by the Romans. The hypocaust system, which allowed warm air to circulate beneath the floors and through wall cavities, remains one of the most impressive aspects of ancient Roman architecture. The site reveals how effectively the Romans managed water flow, temperature regulation, and structural design within a public bathing complex.

Discovered only in the late 20th century during urban redevelopment, the baths have become an important archaeological landmark. They shed light on the early history of Como, bridging the gap between the Roman past and the city's medieval and modern evolution. Though small in scale compared to larger Roman bath complexes elsewhere in Italy, the site is a compelling reminder of Novum Comum's long-standing cultural vitality.

Things to See and Do in Terme di Como Romana

Visitors can walk around the preserved remains of the bath complex, observing the outlines of the frigidarium, tepidarium, and caldarium. These sections provide a clear sense of how the baths were laid out and how Romans transitioned from cold to warm to hot rooms during their bathing rituals.

Interpretive signs around the site help explain the engineering behind the hypocaust heating system, a highlight for anyone interested in ancient technology. The exposed stone foundations and reconstructed areas also allow you to picture the full height and design of the original buildings.

The site’s small size makes it easy to combine with other historic locations nearby, offering insights into how the Roman city was organized. It is particularly enjoyable for visitors who like to imagine the daily routines of ancient societies and appreciate the craftsmanship required to build such enduring structures.

How to Get to Terme di Como Romana

The Terme di Como Romana are located in the historic center of Como, making them easy to reach for most visitors. Travelers arriving by air typically land at Milan Malpensa or Milan Linate, both of which offer convenient transport links to Como. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Como on Booking.com.

If arriving by train, Como San Giovanni station is the closest major rail stop, offering frequent services from Milan and other regional cities. From the station, the baths are within walking distance. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.

Traveling by car is straightforward thanks to major road connections linking Como to Milan and to towns along Lake Como. Parking near the archaeological site may require using one of the public garages around the old town. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Terme di Como Romana

  • Best time to visit Terme di Como Romana: Late morning or early afternoon for even lighting and fewer crowds.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Typically free or low-cost, depending on current exhibition arrangements.
  • Opening hours: Often accessible during daytime hours; check local information for seasonal changes.
  • Official website: Search “Como Roman Baths official site” for the most up-to-date details.
  • How long to spend: Around 20–30 minutes, depending on your interest in Roman archaeology.
  • Accessibility: The site is partially accessible, though uneven ground may pose challenges.
  • Facilities: Restrooms and cafés are located nearby in the historic center.
  • Photography tip: Capture close-up shots of the hypocaust remains for intriguing textures.
  • Guided tours: Occasionally available through local archaeological groups or city tours.
  • Nearby food options: Plenty of cafés and trattorias within a short walk.

Where to Stay close to Terme di Como Romana

Staying in the historic center of Como means you're ideally placed to visit the baths and other archaeological sites on foot. Albergo Firenze offers a central and comfortable stay close to many landmarks. For travelers seeking lakeside scenery, Palace Hotel provides elegant accommodation with pleasant views. A more traditional option is Hotel Tre Re, located within an easy walking distance of the Roman Baths and other key attractions.

Is Terme di Como Romana Worth Visiting?

Yes. While compact, the Terme di Como Romana offers a fascinating insight into Como's ancient origins. For visitors with an interest in Roman history, architecture, or archaeological sites, it stands as one of the where to go in Como. The subtle yet evocative ruins connect you directly to the rhythms of everyday life in Novum Comum, making it a meaningful stop on any exploration of the city.

FAQs for Visiting Terme di Como Romana

Are the Roman Baths of Como fully intact?
No, only portions of the original complex remain, but they clearly show the layout and function of key rooms.

Is there an entrance fee?
The site is often free to visit, though special exhibitions may introduce small fees.

Can children enjoy the site?
Yes, especially those interested in history or ancient engineering.

How long does a visit take?
Typically 20–30 minutes is enough to explore the ruins.

Are guided tours offered?
Occasionally, especially during cultural events or archaeological open days.

Nearby Attractions to Terme di Como Romana

  • Como Cathedral: The city's grand Gothic and Renaissance cathedral.
  • Broletto di Como: The historic medieval town hall beside the cathedral.
  • Silk Museum: Highlighting Como’s long-standing silk tradition.
  • Piazza Cavour: A lakeside square with cafés and scenic views.
  • Funicular to Brunate: Offering outstanding panoramic views over Como and the lake.

The Terme di Como Romana appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Como!

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Visiting Terme di Como Romana

Hours:

Tuesday and Thursday: 10.00 to 14.00

Saturday: 10.00 – 18.00

Price:

Free

Address: Terme di Como Romana, Viale Lecco, Como, Province of Como, Italy
Como: 1 km

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