In the heart of Regio VI in Pompeii, we find the Stabian Baths and the House of Diana, two sites that offer a glimpse into the daily life and residential architecture of the ancient city.
The Stabian Baths are one of the oldest and best-preserved bath complexes in Pompeii. This complex was a center of social life, where Pompeians went not only to bathe but also to socialize, discuss business, and relax. The baths are composed of several sections, including the frigidarium (cold room), the calidarium (hot room), and the tepidarium (warm room). Each room was designed to offer a different experience, with heated floors, hypocaust heating systems, and decorative frescoes.
The baths were accessible to both men and women, although in separate areas or at different times. The facilities also included a gymnasium, where citizens could exercise and stay fit. The decorations of the baths, including mosaics and frescoes, reflect the importance of these places in the daily and cultural life of Pompeii.
Next to the Stabian Baths is the House of Diana, a private residence known for its large peristyle and well-preserved wall paintings. The house is named after a relief depicting the goddess Diana found inside it. The peristyle, a large courtyard surrounded by columns, was the heart of the house and a gathering place for family and guests.
The walls of the House of Diana are adorned with frescoes representing mythological and naturalistic scenes, executed with great skill and vivid colors. The rooms were arranged around the peristyle, offering privacy and tranquility to its inhabitants. The house is an excellent example of how Pompeians lived and decorated their homes, combining comfort and aesthetics.