The Earl and Countess of Wessex have visited the Roman Baths to re-open the newly-renovated Temple Precinct as part of a tour of Bath, which included a visit to Bath Abbey.
Their Royal Highnesses saw how the uncovering of the Roman Temple Precinct has increased space for visitors and revealed more of the ancient monument.
The display of the gilt bronze head of the goddess Sulis Minerva has been completely re-designed and a tactile model put in place for the benefit of visitors who may be partially-sighted.
Bath & North East Somerset Council has made major improvements to the Roman Baths, including opening up a new, previously hidden, area and improving access for visitors.
A new suspended walkway has also been put in place above the Temple Precinct, giving visitors an aerial view of the ancient monument below.
Full wheelchair access will follow in the autumn when two new lifts are installed.
There’s also a new lighting scheme at the Roman Baths, which uses 80% less energy than previously but is also better quality.
Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Head of Heritage Services, Stephen Bird, said: “We’re delighted that the Earl and Countess of Wessex came to Bath to officially re-open the Temple Precinct.
“These improvements to the Roman Baths will make the experience much better for our visitors. The imaginative lighting scheme also supports the Council’s drive to reduce energy bills and energy consumption.”
