Public Lavatories in Rome

Public lavatories did exist in ancient Rome, but they were nothing like what we have today. For one thing, I am using the term 'public' in its most literal sense because there was no such thing as privacy. There were no cubicles to separate those making use of the facilities. The procedure was conducted in full public view. Moreover, it was considered perfectly normal for people to meet there, defecate and discuss the news and gossip of the day - discoursing from both orifices. Despite this openness the surroundings were extremely well decorated - who knows, perhaps in order to inspire the users. The lavatory seats were made of marble, around them there was a continuous flow of water, while above them one could often see niches with little statues of gods, heroes, etc. Sometimes there was even a fountain in the room. However, even at the imperial palace, where one would expect to find privacy in these situations, the lavatories had three seats, side by side.

Comments

Anna said…
She didn't flush it down did she? Oh dear...
Where can one read this story?
Friday, 29 April, 2005
Anna said…
I will definitely try that and let you know if I find it.

By the way, please feel free to offer advice etc. when you see I have made a mistake with something. Then I can correct it. I really appreciate it. :-))

Thanks :-))
Sunday, 01 May, 2005
Anna said…
It is an honour to have a PhD student on my blog!:-)

That book you mentioned, is it academic or mainstream? I seem to recall seing something like that in a bookshop, a while back.

Thanks,
A.
Monday, 02 May, 2005
Bystander said…
Most French campsites had similar arrangements in the Sixties. The men's urinals were on an outside wall, and the toilets proper (squat or, less often, sit) had partitions but no doors.

The French are a lot less squeamish about bodily functions than the rosbifs to this day.

PS, like the blog, have linked to mine
Wednesday, 04 May, 2005
Anna said…
First of all, thanks for liking my blog, I am very pleased to hear it! :-))) Secondly, it is very nice to have a magistrate amongst my readers. :-)))

By the way, I like your blog as well and will link to you too as soon as I can get hold of my html notes tonight. :-)

I have heard this about the French, and I believe the notorious 'biddet' is one of their inventions. ;-)
Wednesday, 04 May, 2005
Anonymous said…
hello im mike in wasington state usa its possible they may hae had sheets or curtains,linens in the roman lavatories to screen yourself in or to get a sence of privacy i like history reading especially roman/greek medevel period
Monday, 17 July, 2006
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