Baths of Constantine and Réattu Museum

These are the ruins of the Baths of Constantine, some of the best-preserved Roman baths in Europe! Back in the day, Arles counted several thermal baths. The ones here are the oldest, dating back to the 4th century. That’s why they’re thought to have been built by Constantine. The Romans loved their baths! They were a big part of their life and showcased their engineering prowess and devotion to bodily care and hygiene. They had even invented an underfloor heating system, called hypocaust, that relied on hot air circulation. And so, they had saunas and heated pools – a full spa experience for everyone! Admission was free, and people of all ages – women first, then men – would come every day to pamper themselves. They’d sweat it out, get scrubbed clean, enjoy a massage, and then take a dip in the cold water – talk about invigorating! Plus, there were even sports facilities and a library. A healthy mind in a healthy body! Sure, you have to use your imagination, as there was much more here than meets the eye. Today, you can still see some remains of the warm rooms. There’s more to explore, but you’ll have to pay an entrance fee. If you’re keen to find out more, you should visit the Arles Archaeological Museum (Musée Départemental Arles Antique), where you’ll find a scale model of the baths and plenty of information! Right next door, there’s yet another very interesting museum, the Réattu Museum of Contemporary Art. In addition to its contemporary art collection, the site houses works by local painter Jacques Réattu and sketches by Pablo Picasso. There’s also a wing dedicated to photography, the first of its kind in an arts museum in France. The museum is housed in a former 16th-century hospital priory and it’s listed as a historical monument.