Bath buildings are found throughout the Roman Empire and, although often subject to local influences, remain a key indicator of Romanized culture. Drawing on substantial original research, this work examines the origins and development of this distinctive building type in an area of Southwest Turkey where numerous city states vied with each other in the construction of public monuments. New plans and photographs present the full range of Lycian bath buildings and reveals chronological variation in construction techniques. By comparing their forms to local Hellenistic buildings and other examples in Asia Minor, the author suggests that Roman officials from Central Italy may have been the main sponsors. A final chapter considers how Roman bathing habits fitted into the lively sporting life of Asia Minor under the Empire, with its strong emphasis on gymnasia and athletic festivals.