A visit today includes a portion of the original baths—its high ceilings, a funerary sculpture, and two second-century tombs. You can also walk its 16th century garden, dotted with art. The original complex, built from 298 to 306 AD, encompassed a gymnasium, library, stadium, gardens, galleries, and walking paths. Much of it was converted into other buildings, notably Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels, Church of San Bernardo alle Terme, and National Roman Museum.
Like many ancient Roman ruins, the Baths of Diocletian are difficult to interpret without the help of a guide as part of an archaeological tour. Many private tours of Rome’s most important ancient sites include a visit to the Baths of Diocletian and the adjacent National Roman Museum, along with skip-the-line access to the Colosseum and Roman Forum.