The Archaeological park of Larino, which conserves an important Roman amphitheatre, also has an admirable thermal bath complex, built in the 2nd century C.E. near the arena which it probably served.
The mosaic flooring, featuring geometrical motifs, imaginary marine animals and dolphins, was completed by the end of 2nd century C.E. and bears witness to continued investment by local magistrates in the structure.
By using the hypocaust technique, the calidarium was guaranteed efficient heating, obtained by circulating hot air, from furnaces fed by workers, through cavities beneath the floor surface. The floor itself was supported by square brick columns known as suspensurae.
The presence of a thermal bath complex in Larinum demonstrates the wealth of the local noble classes and the continued economic development of a city which had been at the heart of a trading network since ancient times, its flourishing vitality demonstrated by the archaeological artefacts recovered.
