Sarikaya Roman Bath

A Roman thermal facility built in the 2nd century AD on top of a hot spring then called Aquae Sarvenae. The hot water emerging from underground was used directly in the bath. During the Byzantine period, a church was added to its north and the settlement began to be called Basilica Therma. It continued to be used as a bathhouse center during the Seljuk and Ottoman periods, but infrastructure works during the Republic era caused the destruction of most of the structure.

The only standing part is the barrel-vaulted western facade wall that provided passage to the rear chamber. This wall with ten-eyed, two-story marble arches was worked in Corinthian order; only the lower portions of the half-columns at the arch supports have survived to the present day. There are circular pool traces at the north and south ends of the wall, a large thermal pool in front, an inner pool descended by stairs behind, and a third pool to the east. The series of arches on the western facade is the most striking point for photography.

Approximately 77 km from Yozgat city center to Sarikaya district. Access is easy as it is on the main route connecting the Black Sea to the Mediterranean. After reaching the district center, the bath is in Kapilica Neighborhood, within walking distance. Free parking areas are available around, which is convenient for those arriving by vehicle.

The area is not large, 30-45 minutes is sufficient to tour the ruins and take photographs. If you have come to Sarikaya, you can add other thermal facilities in the district or natural areas in the surrounding area to your route and complete your day.

The structure is in an open area, a protected site; it is important to tour the ruins without touching them. Some visitors note that the new construction in the surrounding area overshadows the historical texture, so you may need to choose your angle carefully when taking photographs. A brief reading about the bath's history before visiting can make your tour more meaningful.

As an open area, it is more comfortable to visit early in the morning or in the evening during the summer months to avoid midday heat. Spring and autumn are favorable in terms of both weather and lighting for photography.

Sarikaya is known for its thermal springs; there are bathhouse facilities and small teahouses near the bath. A teahouse right next to the bath can be preferred for a short break. On your return to Yozgat center, you can also include other historical structures in the city in your itinerary.

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