The ancient baths of Caracalla in Rome, which were built by Emperor Septimius Severus in 212 AD and completed four years later by his successor Caracalla, have been without water for over 1,000 years. However, this month, local authorities unveiled a project to re-introduce water to the site by installing a large, shallow pool that reflects the towering walls of the ancient buildings. The pool, named Specchio (which means "mirror" in Italian), is a rectangular structure measuring 42 metres by 32 metres and is only 10 cm deep. It was designed by architects Hannes Peer and Paolo Bornello to evoke , the largest of the several pools in ancient Roman baths typically found at the centre. The ruins of the baths of Caracalla are now a popular tourist destination and also host concerts and theatre performances. To celebrate the return of water to the site, ballet dancers performed on a platform over the newly installed pool.Peer and Paolo Bornello. It is meant to evoke the so-called Natatio, the largest of the several pools in ancient Roman baths, usually found at the centre.
The central pool measures 42 by 32 meters and has overflowing water on three sides. It is only 10 centimeters high and takes inspiration from the Natatio, an open-air Olympic pool from ancient Rome. The Water Mirror aims to be a symbol of reconnection with the ancient world and serves as a stage for artistic, performative, and cultural activities. The pool's floor has 20 submerged water jets accompanied by lighting effects, while a harmonization system producing vapor completes the atmospheric setting. Overall, the Water Mirror is not only an aesthetic wonder but a functional installation that offers a unique experience.
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