The Roman Spa

Beneath the ancient monastery of Santa Caterina, founded in 1275, lies something no architect could have invented: a thermal circuit set into the same earth where, two thousand years earlier, a Roman complex from the second century BC stood. The NUN Spa Museum is not a reconstruction. It is an original place, its history intact.

Wide shot of underground Roman thermal baths (video)

Strength, lightness, balance among the limestone pillars of the first century AD. Each circuit is shaped to bring the body back to its own measure.

In 2007, during the restoration of the Benedictine monastery of Santa Caterina, something unexpected was found in the underground levels: limestone pillars, masonry, and rooms dating from the first century AD and the second century BC, traceable to an amphitheater and a temple dedicated to the cult of the waters of the Roman city of Asisium. Remains found whole, in excellent condition, in the heart of Assisi.

Spa Romana with couple at pool edge and light strip

The Circuit

The thermal circuit lasts about three hours and moves through four rooms of rising temperature: Tepidarium, Calidarium, Sudatorium, Frigidarium. A gradual entry into heat, immersion in dense humidity, dry cleansing, closing in the cold. Each step prepares the body for the next. An ancient rhythm, still the most effective.

Spa Romana with woman in pool and water spout fountain on stone wall
  • Tepidarium

    Temperature: 30-35°C
    Humidity: 60-70%
    A relaxation area before entering the Calidarium and after the thermal circuit.

  • Calidarium

    Recommended stay: 10-15 minutes
    Temperature: 40-45°C
    Humidity: 85-95%
    Frequency: no more than 2-3 times

  • Sudatorium

    Recommended stay: 10-15 minutes
    Temperature: about 60°C
    Humidity: 45-55%
    Frequency: no more than 2-3 times

  • Frigidarium

    Recommended stay: 5-10 minutes
    Temperature: 10-15°C
    Humidity: about 50%

Alongside the four rooms come the jacuzzi with its powerful hydromassage, set within the Roman pillars, the multi-jet pool, and the tisaneria, where aromatic infusions, selected teas, dried fruit, and small sweets accompany the time spent at rest. There is no hurry to come back up.

The Treatments

The wellness circuit prepares the body for treatments and rituals through an experience of deep relaxation. Heat and steam ease muscle tension, promote overall well-being, and enhance the benefits of every gesture. The treatments, designed to regenerate body and mind, complete the experience with moments dedicated to personal care and balance.