Roman Bath Transformed into Ancient Wine and Olive Oil Complex

An ancient Roman bath in southern Türkiye has been found to have had an unexpected second life as a massive production complex. Archaeologists excavating the ruins of Antiochia ad Cragum uncovered a remarkably well-preserved agricultural facility, complete with an olive-crushing mill, substantial press system, and former bathing pool capable of holding approximately 2,900 liters.

The discoveries reveal how a building once devoted to public bathing was transformed into a facility likely used to produce wine and olive oil. Rather than abandoning the bath entirely, its later occupants adapted its rooms, water infrastructure, and decorative architectural elements for agricultural production.

A Roman Bath Finds an Unexpected Second Life

The transformation of the Small Bath at Antiochia ad Cragum was not an isolated development. Previous excavations in the area have revealed a winery built into the podium of an imperial temple, kilns installed inside the Great Bath, and numerous components associated with olive oil production scattered throughout the ancient city.

The new facility provides particularly valuable evidence because several components of its processing equipment survived in their original positions. The surrounding region offered favorable conditions for agriculture, including south-facing slopes, well-drained soils, and natural springs supported grape and olive cultivation.