Las Bóvedas (thermae)

Las Bóvedas, translated as "The Vaults" in English, refers to a significant Roman thermal bath complex located in modern-day Málaga, Spain. These thermae, dating back to the 1st century AD, represent a notable example of Roman engineering and bathing culture in the Iberian Peninsula.

The complex featured various bathing rooms, including the caldarium (hot bath), tepidarium (warm bath), and frigidarium (cold bath), each heated using the hypocaust system, a sophisticated underfloor heating mechanism. The name "Las Bóvedas" originates from the vaulted ceilings that characterized the structure, showcasing the advanced architectural techniques employed by the Romans.

Archaeological excavations at the site have uncovered mosaics, ceramic fragments, and other artifacts, providing valuable insights into the daily life and social customs of the Roman inhabitants of the region. The thermae likely served as a social and recreational hub for the local community, offering a place for relaxation, hygiene, and social interaction.

While the site is not as extensive as some of the larger Roman baths found elsewhere in the Roman Empire, Las Bóvedas remains an important archaeological site, contributing to our understanding of Roman influence and infrastructure in Hispania. It underscores the widespread adoption of Roman bathing practices across the empire and provides tangible evidence of Roman presence in the Málaga area. Conservation efforts continue to preserve and study the site for future generations.