Aula Ottagona

Aula Ottagona

Discover cities like never before.

Enjoy over self-guided city exploration with our app ‘Explory’. Learn all about the history and discover hidden more than 500.000 hidden gems, that only locals know about. Build custom tours, find nearby places, and start exploring instantly.

What mighty structure once stood here? Look around you. Feel the history embedded in these ancient stones. We stand before the Aula Ottagona, also known as the Octagonal Hall. It’s a remarkable relic of the Baths of Diocletian. The Baths of Diocletian, once the largest baths in the ancient world, were a marvel of Roman engineering. Capable of holding up to 3,000 people, they were a hub of Roman social life. The Aula Ottagona, tucked away in a corner, played an interesting role in this grand complex. Initially, it likely served as a frigidarium, a cold plunge pool providing a refreshing contrast to the heated rooms. Its octagonal shape and domed roof, a masterpiece of Roman architecture, would have amplified the echo of splashing water and lively chatter. Centuries later, after the decline of the Roman Empire, the Aula Ottagona took on new life. It was separated from the main complex and transformed into a planetarium in 1928. Imagine gazing up at the dome, no longer adorned with marble and stucco, but instead, a canvas for the celestial wonders of the universe. Today, the Aula Ottagona stands as an exhibition space, housing a collection of bronze and marble statues recovered from the baths. As you admire these remnants of a glorious past, close your eyes for a moment and let the whispers of history wash over you. Picture the laughter of bathers, the quiet contemplation of stargazers, and the stories etched into the very fabric of this remarkable structure.

After discovering the story of Aula Ottagona in Rome, you may wonder how to explore even more of what this vibrant destination has to offer. Explory makes it simple: our digital guide gives you instant access to the city’s culture, history, and unique atmosphere. With our interactive city guide, you can uncover the background of Rome while following engaging routes designed for curious travelers. Whether you’re on a short trip or staying longer, Explory transforms your visit into a personalized city tour that connects stories with places in an intuitive way.Explory is more than just an ordinary travel tool – it is your companion for deeper exploration of Rome. Each guide combines expert storytelling with easy navigation, allowing you to discover well-known highlights and hidden gems that most visitors overlook. With the city guide, you can plan your route across landmarks, neighborhoods, and cultural spots, all enriched by immersive audio storytelling. Our audio guide brings the atmosphere of Rome directly to your ears, making each step of your journey more meaningful.Whether you are passionate about art, architecture, history, or everyday culture, Explory helps you connect with the spirit of Rome. The carefully curated guide highlights what makes this city special, while the interactive city tour lets you explore on your own terms. Thanks to our focus on exploration and unique hidden gems, you’ll enjoy a travel experience that goes far beyond traditional sightseeing. Explory turns every visit into a memorable adventure where stories and places come alive.Download the Explory App now to continue your journey beyond Rome. Inside the app, you’ll find over 300 cities and more than 500,000 POIs and stories waiting for you. Whether you are searching for a smart audio guide, planning your next city tour, or simply looking for inspiration through a rich guide, Explory is your key to exploring the world differently. Start today and unlock the full potential of Rome with Explory – your ultimate travel companion.

More Places in Rome

Domus Flavia

Was it awe or fear that coursed through the veins of those who stood before the Domus Flavia? Imagine yourselves

Explore