\paperw4890 \margr0\margl0 \plain \f1 \fs22 THE BATHS\par
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The use of thermae or public baths began to spread among the Romans toward the end of the 3rd century B
C. Soon these baths came to be used not just as places for the care of the body but as the city's chief meeting places, where the population liked to spend its free time. In the Imperial age the thermae were marvelous <<multi-functional centers,>> contai
ning not just baths but also gymnasia, libraries, splendid gardens, rooms for conferences and exhibitions, and places where all sorts of performances were staged. \par