Balneario Termas Romanas: Roman Thermal Baths in Baños de Montemayor, Spain

Visitor Information

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Official Website: www.balneariomontemayor.com

Country: Spain

Civilization: Roman

Remains: Sanitation

History

The Balneario Termas Romanas is situated in the town of Baños de Montemayor, Spain, and was originally constructed by the Romans. Its location along the ancient “Ruta de la Plata,” a Roman road linking Asturica Augusta (modern Astorga) to Augusta Emerita (modern Mérida).

Use of the thermal waters at this site dates back to at least the 2nd century BCE. During the Roman period, both military personnel and civilians frequented the baths, as evidenced by Latin inscriptions, altars, and ex-votos—offerings dedicated to the Nymphs, deities associated with water and healing. These findings confirm the baths’ dual role as a place for therapeutic treatment and religious devotion under Roman rule.

In 1894, archaeological excavations uncovered subterranean rooms and marble bathtubs from the Roman era, revealing the extent of the original complex.

The baths experienced significant development in the 17th century when the Marquis of Montemayor and Bishop Juan de Porras y Atienza expanded the facilities. This included the construction of a large vaulted nave.

Ownership shifted in the 19th century when the municipality transferred control to local residents, who formed an administrative board to manage the baths. Architectural enhancements followed, such as the addition of a ground-level hall supported by six metal columns and vaulted rooms at the level of the Roman baths, blending historical preservation with modernization.

In the early 20th century, a hotel named after the balneario was built adjacent to the baths. The complex gained political support from Alejandro Lerroux, a prominent figure who promoted the site. Subsequently, the Ferrero family took over management, overseeing operations for much of the century.

After a period marked by management disputes and financial challenges in the 2010s, local residents regained control of the balneario in 2015, ensuring the continuation of its historic legacy.

Remains

The Balneario Termas Romanas features a distinctive circular interior space that encloses the thermal spring. This chamber, approximately 1.5 meters in height, is constructed of brick and capped by a vaulted ceiling with a central skylight, allowing natural light to illuminate the spring below. Above the spring chamber, an opening reveals a column trunk and an octagonal basin pierced by eight small holes, a design element consistent with Roman therapeutic baths intended to regulate water flow and temperature.

The main façade of the balneario is composed of three connected sections. The first section rises two stories and includes a central entrance flanked by four low-arched balconies on the upper floor, separated from the lower level by a cornice with molded detailing. The second section is smaller and features square windows, while the third section presents finely cut stone blocks at its base and plastered masonry towers with corner stones, lending a fortified appearance. A decorative balustraded staircase links this third section to the adjacent hotel building.

Along the lateral façade, two floors are visible without a separating cornice, punctuated by five stone-framed windows that echo the style of the main façade. The entire complex is enclosed by iron railings dating from around 1890, which frame the historic site.

Archaeological excavations in 1998 uncovered Roman marble bathtubs adorned with artistic carvings in the Mudejar style, a reflection of later cultural influences layered onto the original Roman elements. These bathtubs are preserved and remain in use for treatments, as well as being displayed in the balneario’s museum, connecting visitors with the site’s long history.

The site is divided by the N-630 road, with the historic balneario building located on the right side when traveling toward Salamanca, and a more modern structure situated on the left. This arrangement reflects the evolution of the complex over time, balancing preservation of ancient features with newer additions.