Downpipes and upper story latrines in Pompeii

Research into Roman sanitation has expanded greatly in the past two decades, however little research has focused on downpipes and upper story latrines. Recent field work at Pompeii has culminated in the identification and description of twenty-nine upper story latrines. Furthermore, the presence of 286 wide-bore downpipes indicates a dynamic and complex system of upper story drainage across the site with consequences on our understanding of toilet use and urban infrastructure. Variation in construction of upper story latrines and downpipes has not previous been acknowledged. The socioeconomic implications for low and middle class housing and sanitation needs are also discussed.