Introducing: The Curious History of Your Home - Baths
Apr 11, 2024
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From the grandeur of Roman bathhouses to the trouble faced by Tudor London bathhouses. An excitable Victorian clergyman extolling skinny dipping virtues. World War Two's surprising role in kickstarting the hot tub craze. Exploring the historical evolution of bathing practices and health benefits.
The Caracalla Baths in Rome exemplify Roman wealth and communal bathing culture across social classes.
From ancient spiritual bathing rituals to modern hot tub trends, the history of bathing reflects evolving societal beliefs and practices.
Deep dives
The Grandeur of Roman Bathhouses
In the year 235 AD, the Caracalla Baths in Rome, a project of Emperor Caracalla, were a monumental feat spanning 27 acres with grand features like a library, an Olympic-sized pool, and an underground temple. Despite Caracalla's controversial rise to power, his baths stood as a marvel showcasing Roman wealth and sophistication. The Baths welcomed people from all walks of life, blurring social boundaries in communal experiences.
Evolution of Bathing Practices through History
From ancient civilizations like the Indus Valley to medieval Europe, bathing held spiritual and communal significance. The decline of imperial bathhouses coincided with environmental and economic factors, challenging traditional bathing practices. In the Middle Ages, communal bathing shifted, influenced by religious beliefs and social changes. The rise of germ theory revolutionized bathing habits, emphasizing hygiene and health benefits.
Modernization of Bathing Habits and Cultural Trends
By the 18th century, health spars and sea bathing surged in popularity, reshaping views on water therapies. The 19th century saw beach recreation and a decline in sea bathing for health reasons. The 20th century brought innovations like plastic pipes, making indoor plumbing accessible to more people. Hot tub trends post-World War II mirrored ancient bathing habits, fostering social gatherings and relaxation. Today, while showers dominate for convenience, baths retain a timeless appeal with recognized health benefits.
A brand-new podcast from the Noiser network. Join domestic historian Ruth Goodman as she explores the remarkable, often epic, tales behind everyday objects.
This taster episode is all about the bath.
A murderous emperor builds the grandest bath complex ever seen in Ancient Rome. The arrival of a new disease spells trouble for the bathhouses of Tudor London. An excitable Victorian clergyman extolls the virtues of skinny dipping. And World War Two plays a surprising role in kickstarting the hot tub craze…
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