Visitors to the Roman Baths can now explore locations around the perimeter of the historic site where ancient remains and precious artefacts were unearthed, thanks to a new ‘Beneath My Feet’ app.
The free app reveals where objects such as the gilt bronze head of the goddess Minerva, now on show in the Roman Baths museum, were found.
It also helps to orientate visitors, telling them when they are standing above key areas of the Roman baths and temple complex, such as the original main Roman drain, which is still in use after 2,000 years to channel the natural hot water into the River Avon, 500 metres away.
The app features a map of the area around the Roman Baths, which includes Abbey Church Yard, Kingston Parade, Stall Street and York Street.
There is a wealth of history beneath these streets, from Roman city-centre buildings to a whole Saxon burial ground.
When users click on points on the map, information pops up about each location, along with images relating to the artefacts, buildings or even human remains that have been unearthed there.
Councillor Patrick Anketell-Jones (Conservative, Lansdown), Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Development, said: “This new app, leading the way in Visitor Information, will enhance people’s visit to the Roman Baths, as they explore the streets nearby, and find out more about the rich variety of historic buildings and artefacts that lie beneath them.”
The app was developed by Acoustiguide Limited, providers of audioguides to the Roman Baths.
It is available for both Android and Apple devices, via Google Play or the Apple App Store.
