Cisterna delle Sette Sale

How did ancient Romans quench their thirst for lavish baths? Look around you. We are standing before the Cisterna delle Sette Sale, an embodiment of Roman ingenuity. The name might be deceiving as the Cisterna delle Sette Sale, meaning “Seven Halls”, actually consists of nine parallel chambers. This impressive cistern, built during the reign of Emperor Trajan around the 2nd century AD, was a key element in supplying water to the nearby Baths of Trajan. The cistern was a marvel of engineering. It held a staggering 8 million liters of water, fed by a branch aqueduct originating from the Esquiline Hill. The water pressure was cleverly maintained at a high level, ensuring a continuous flow to the luxurious baths. The design is truly remarkable! Water flowed through openings arranged diagonally between the chambers. This strategic placement prevented the formation of whirlpools that could compromise the structure. Look closely, and you can still see the waterproof plaster that lined the walls and floors. Although now still, imagine the constant flow of water that once filled these chambers, a testament to the Romans’ mastery of water management and a vital part of their daily lives. The Cisterna delle Sette Sale, although often overlooked, offers us a glimpse into the incredible infrastructure that supported the grandeur of ancient Rome.