The Sarno Baths, Pompeii: Architecture development and 3D reconstruction

Abstract The paper focuses on the architectural study of the so called Sarno Bath complex at its final phase, a six-storey building located at the edge of the city ( Regio VIII, Insula 2, nos. 17–21). The complete 3D survey of the complex, obtained from the surveys already carried out by the Archaeological Park of Pompeii and by new surveys of the University of Padua (MACH Project), was the fundamental work tool. The research has several aims: (i) to provide a proposal of reconstruction of the partially collapsed southern facade and of the upper levels; (ii) to define the numerous passages within the building complex, useful for understanding how it was used; (iii) to propose a preliminary hypothesis on the function of the different levels and areas, based on the planimetric analysis and on the materials found (the study is ongoing) as well as on the graffiti still in situ; (iv) to provide a “quantitative” architectural evaluation of the complex, facilitated by the digital survey. The understanding of this extraordinary architectural and multifunctional complex, where public functions, residential areas, a public–private bath and storage areas – all interconnected – might coexist, is only at the beginning.