Thermo-hygrometric behaviour of Roman thermal buildings: the “Indirizzo” Baths of Catania (Sicily)

Results show that temperatures in the caldarium ranged between 30 and 35 °C, with a RH of around 60 ÷ 70%, while the thermal level of hot gases inside the hypocaust fluctuated from about 90 to 125 °C, in function of the outdoor climate. Moreover, the original presence of windowpanes and concamerationes has been confirmed, as they were necessary to guarantee appropriate indoor thermal sensations and to prevent burns by touching the heated surfaces. These outcomes may constitute a useful support for better understanding the operation of other similar Roman thermal complexes.