Stathis Dimitriadis retweetledi
Terracotta vessels used for medicinal heat therapy were discovered in Paphos, Cyprus, and are associated with the Roman period (1st Century BC – 1st century AD)...
These vessels, shaped like life-sized human body parts, were used as hot water bottles filled with heated water or oil and applied to aching or infected areas to relieve pain through warmth and improved blood flow. They were likely used in healing temples (Asklepeia) or doctor’s establishments, aligning with ancient medical practices described by Hippocrates and Galen for treating rheumatic conditions.
They vessels were molded from local clay and fired at moderate temperatures in open kilns or bonfires, so the terracotta came durable enough to withstand repeated heating and cooling. Unlike decorative wares, these vessels show little evidence of painted motifs or slips, suggesting their utilitarian purpose in medical settings such as healing temples (Asklepeia) or physicians’ clinics.
National Archaeological Museum of Paphos
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