Museo Civico Archeologico - Strigil, balsamarium and patera, Roman collection

In ancient Rome, even during the Republic, personal and social hygiene were highly valued. Public baths were ubiquitous throughout the Roman world, including in "Bononia (Bologna)". These baths served as a vital part of daily life for both the wealthy and the poor, providing a space for hygiene, relaxation, sports, and social interaction. A typical bath kit would include a "strigil" for deep cleansing, a "balsamarium" for anointing and softening the skin, and a "patera" for washing.