Visitors to the Roman Baths can now get even more hands on with history following the introduction of two new costumed characters by the Roman specialists working there.
This latest addition to the cast of entertaining and educational performers will interact with visitors to help them explore life in Roman times – particularly the lives of Centurions and slaves.
Councillor Cherry Beath (Lib-Dem, Combe Down), Cabinet Member for Sustainable Development, said: “Visitors can meet two new characters dressed in authentic Roman outfits around the Great Bath – as part of Bath & North East Somerset Council’s imaginative approach to telling the story of the local area in Roman times. This initiative is all about making history accessible with the best of modern interpretation that appeals to people of all ages.”
Stephen Clews, Manager of the Roman Baths, said: “Our two new fascinating characters are Marcus Aufidius Maximus and his freedman and former slave Marcus Aufidius Lemnus. They will talk with visitors to the Baths about the military and the role of slaves and freedmen in Roman society.
“They’re based on two inscribed altars from the Temple Precinct which explain that Maximus is a Centurion from Legio VI, which was based in York, and Lemnus is one of two freedmen who took his name.”
Admission to Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Roman Baths is free to local residents on production of a Discovery Card. Normal entry prices apply to everyone else.
Residents of Bath & North East Somerset Council can apply for a Discovery Card by taking along two forms of ID to the following Council buildings: the Roman Baths; Riverside in Keynsham; The Hollies in Midsomer Norton and also the Discovery Card point in the new One Stop Shop at Lewis House, Bath.
For more details about the Roman Baths log on to the website www.romanbaths.co.uk or call 01225 477785.
