Limestone fountain spout, Spain, 100 BCE-400 CE

Limestone fountain spout in the form of grotesque head, Roman from Spain, 100 BC to 400 AD

Roman baths were public places open to much of the population for washing and socialising. This decorative and functional fountain spout in the shape of a grotesque face was found at Roman baths near Seville, Spain.

Such hygienic practices were in keeping with broader approaches to public health under Roman rule. These included the establishment of street cleaning, waste disposal and fresh water supplies in a large number of Roman towns and cities. However, only wealthy people could afford to have water piped into their own homes.