Artist's rendition of a public latrine that may have seated as many as 100 near the Theatre of Pompey in Rome. Water was often fed to latrines from adjacent public baths. The open water channel in front of the latrines was most likely used to wash hands or to dip sponges that were tied to the end of a stick and used for cleaning (see detail at right). The water basins in front of the latrines were probably used for washing faces and other general cleaning.

The latrines were most often unisex; the type of clothing worn served to maintain modesty while on the latrine seats.

Source: Illustration by Jan McDonald, Pima County Wastewater Management Dept., based on information in The Ancient City by Peter Connolly and Hazel Dodge (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1998).

Cutaway view of a typical Roman street during the Roman Empire, showing lead water pipes and a central channel for sewage under the pavement. Perpendicular connections brought sewage from nearby homes and businesses.

Source: Illustration by Jan McDonald, Pima County Wastewater Management Dept., based on information in The Ancient City by Peter Connolly and Hazel Dodge (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1998).

Italian plumbing with external house connection sewers. Photo date 2008.

Source: Eric Wieduwilt, Pima County Regional Wastewater Reclamation Department, Tucson, Arizona.