Basilica Therma

Basilica Therma

Basilica Therma, an ancient Roman spa situated in the town of Sarikaya in Yozgat province, Turkey, is a historic site that has been in use for centuries. Records indicate that it was constructed in the 2nd century AD and was utilized during the Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods, and continues to be accessible to the public.

Basilica Therma

The spa features a large thermal pool that measures 23.30 x 12.80 meters, with a depth of 1.34 meters and water temperature of around 45°C (110°F). There is also an inner pool that extends into the larger swimming area, measuring 16.00 x 4.00 meters, and a third pure-thermal heated pool that measures 15.00 x 5.20 meters and is semi-circular in shape. Although only three pools are currently in use, scientists have confirmed that the complex originally consisted of seven.

The presence of bull's heads on pillars and snake symbols engraved into stone may seem unusual, but they have significant historical and cultural importance. Bull’s heads were a symbol of Rome’s power, while snake symbols represented Asclepius, the Greek god of healing, and Hermes, the Greek god of knowledge. These symbols highlight the spa's original purpose as an ancient thermal treatment center, where patients were submerged in warm water for healing purposes. Basilica Therma is believed to be the oldest thermal treatment center in the world.

In 2018, Basilica Therma was added to UNESCO's Tentative List, recognizing its importance as a unique and historically significant site.