Museu Termas Romanas de Chaves is an archaeological museum in Chaves, Portugal, built around the remains of the Roman medicinal thermal complex of Aquae Flaviae. Its pools and water features offer a focused look at Roman history in Chaves, and the Roman Bridge of Trajan is another Roman-era sight in the city.
- Address: Largo do Arrabalde, 5400-093 Chaves, Portugal
- Opening pattern: Open Tuesday to Sunday; closed Monday
- Admission: free
Where the Roman Baths Museum is
The museum is in Chaves’s historic centre, at Largo do Arrabalde. Its central setting makes it easy to pair with a walk through the old streets; the Chaves city-centre walking guide covers that area.
What the archaeological site presents
The museum presents archaeological remains of Aquae Flaviae, a Roman medicinal thermal complex that was in operation until at least the end of the 4th century AD. The complex included pools, springs and hydraulic features associated with the hot waters.
The museum says the site’s story was preserved after an earthquake, then brought to light during excavations for the construction of a car park. Modern archaeological excavations began in 2006, and the musealized site opened to the public in 2021.
Chaves’s thermal springs emerge at an average temperature of 76°C, according to the museum’s official site. That high temperature helps explain the importance of hot water to the Roman complex.
Planning your museum visit
Its published hours vary from October through March and from April through September. It also closes on January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1, December 24 and December 25. Check the official site before you go, as opening details can change.
Opening hours
- Tuesday to Sunday: 9:30–13:00 and 14:30–18:00
- Monday: closed
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
Admission is free, and booking is not listed as a requirement. For questions, contact the museum at museutermasromanas@chaves.pt or 276 340 501, extension 330.
If you need an accessible route, elevator information or specific support, contact the museum in advance to confirm what is available. Its published visitor information does not specify accessibility facilities or site restrictions.
The museum is about a five-minute walk from Petrus Hotel for a museum visit.
Other Roman sights nearby
The Roman Bridge of Trajan is another Roman-era sight in Chaves; the visitor’s guide to Ponte de Trajano covers the bridge and its history.
Combining both places makes a good way to focus a day in Chaves on the city’s ancient past.
A one-day visit to Chaves can combine the Roman baths with other city sights.
FAQs
What does Museu Termas Romanas de Chaves show?
It presents archaeological remains of Aquae Flaviae, a Roman medicinal thermal complex with pools, springs and hydraulic features.
Is admission to the Roman Baths Museum free?
Yes. Admission is free.
When is the museum closed?
It closes every Monday, as well as on January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1, December 24 and December 25.