The atrium building contains a rare floor mosaic depicting Bacchus, the god of wine.
Excavations revealed an ancient system of lead pipes used to distribute water through the thermal baths.
The site was discovered in 2008 during urban construction work, leading to the creation of the current museum structure.
The thermal baths at this site are divided into distinct zones: the frigidarium, tepidarium, and caldarium.
Archaeologists found evidence of a second-century painting school within the complex, identified by rare pigment containers.
The site sits on the Molinete hill, one of the five original hills upon which the ancient city of Carthago Nova was founded.
The museum uses 3D reconstructions to illustrate how the original Roman structures appeared before their decay.
The Molinete Roman Forum Museum serves as a visitor center and protective roof for one of Spain's largest urban archaeological sites. The site features the remains of the Roman city of Carthago Nova, spanning from the 1st century BC to the 3rd century AD. Visitors walk across suspended glass walkways positioned directly over exposed excavations. Key structures include a Roman forum, thermal baths, and an atrium building used for ritual banquets. The museum displays excavated artifacts including oil lamps, marble sculptures, and personal domestic items. An elaborate system of wall paintings and mosaics remains in situ within the archaeological park. The facility is climate-controlled and fully accessible, integrating ancient ruins with modern architectural protection. It is a central component of the Cartagena Puerto de Culturas network.
The elevated walkway offering a panoramic view of the entire thermal bath complex.
Purchase a combined ticket if you plan to visit other Cartagena Puerto de Culturas sites to save on overall admission.
Bring a light jacket as the indoor museum areas are climate-controlled and remain cool even during hot summer months.
Look for the interpretive panels located along the elevated walkways, which explain the function of each excavated room.
Do not attempt to walk on the ground level of the ruins; stay strictly on the provided elevated walkways.
Closed on Mondays during the winter season.
Do not touch the mosaics or wall paintings; flash photography is prohibited in some sensitive areas.
