For centuries, people have sought out warm water mineral springs for relaxation and health benefits as well as a communal connection with others. In Europe, spa culture reached a peak in the 18th and 19th centuries as the medical community advised patients to “take the waters” in mineral-rich spa towns across Europe. UNESCO’s Great Spa Towns of Europe comprise eleven locations across seven countries, each built around natural mineral water springs. These towns showcase the evolution of European spa culture from the early 18th century to the 1930s. Around the attraction of the warm water mineral springs, international resorts arose featuring grand architecture, resorts, parks, and gardens that attracted nobility, artists, and the wealthy and significantly influenced urban development and medical practices.
Baden bei Wien, Austria
Baden bei Wien, often simply referred to as Baden, is a spa town located about 16 miles south of Vienna, Austria. Known as "Vienna's bathtub," the town has a rich history as a health resort dating back to Roman times, but it gained particular prominence in the late 18th and 19th centuries when it became a favorite summer retreat for the Habsburg imperial family and Viennese nobility. Baden is famous for its sulfuric thermal springs, which have been used for therapeutic purposes for centuries. The town is also renowned for its beautiful Biedermeier architecture, elegant parks, and cultural offerings Visitors to Baden can enjoy a variety of activities centered around wellness and culture. The Römertherme, a modern thermal spa complex, offers various pools and treatments using the town's mineral-rich waters. For a more historical experience, the Josefsbad, dating back to 1804, provides traditional bathing facilities. The Casino Baden, one of Europe's most beautiful and largest casinos, offers gaming and entertainment in a stunning Belle Époque setting. Nature enthusiasts can explore the beautiful Kurpark or hike in the nearby Vienna Woods. The town also boasts several museums, including the Arnulf Rainer Museum and the Beethoven House, where the composer spent several summers and wrote parts of his Ninth Symphony. Throughout the year, Baden hosts various cultural events, including operettas at the Sommerarena and concerts at the Congress Casino.
The Römertherme, a modern thermal spa complex, offers various pools and treatments using the town's mineral-rich waters.
Monument to Joseph Lanner and Johann Strauss in Baden bei Wien
The Baden City Theater on Theaterplatz Square in Baden bei Wien, Austria. The theater seats 700 and specializes in opera and musical comedy.
Undine Fountain in Kurpark in Baden bei Wien
Casino Baden in Baden bei Wien. It is one of the largest casinos in Europe. Opened in 1934.
Beethovenhaus. Beethoven lived here in the summers of 1821 - 1823
Spa, Belgium
Spa is a small town located in the Ardennes region of eastern Belgium, known for its natural mineral springs and picturesque surroundings. The town's history as a health resort dates back to the 14th century, and it became particularly popular among European nobility and aristocracy in the 18th and 19th centuries. The English word "spa" is likely derived from the name of this Belgian town. Napoleon, Victor Hugo, Alexander Dumas, and even Marie Antoinette took the waters in Spa. Today, Spa is famous for several attractions. The town still offers thermal baths and wellness centers where visitors can enjoy the healing properties of its mineral-rich waters. The old thermal baths closed in 2004 making way for a new thermal bath center, Thermoludism, linked by funicular from its perch on a hill overlooking the town. It's also renowned for hosting the Belgian Grand Prix at the nearby Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, one of the most challenging tracks in Formula One racing. Visitors to Spa can explore its town center with its historic architecture, visit the Spa Museum to learn about the town's history, or enjoy outdoor activities in the surrounding Ardennes forests, such as hiking, cycling, or horseback riding. For those interested in gambling, the Casino de Spa, one of the oldest in the world, offers another form of entertainment.
Františkovy Lázně, Czechia
Františkovy Lázně, also known as Franzensbad in German, is a small spa town located in the westernmost part of Bohemia, Czech Republic, near the German border. Founded in 1793 by Emperor Francis II, the town quickly gained popularity as a spa resort due to its mineral-rich springs. It became particularly renowned in the 19th century, attracting notable visitors including Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Ludwig van Beethoven, and various European nobles. The town is famous for its neoclassical and art nouveau architecture. Its 24 mineral springs are known for their healing properties, particularly in treating gynecological issues, heart and circulatory problems, and musculoskeletal disorders. Visitors can explore the town center, relax in the numerous spa facilities, or stroll through the beautiful parks and gardens. The town's symbol, a small statue of František (Francis), a boy sitting on a sphere, is said to bring fertility to women who touch it. Other attractions include the local history museum, the unique peat bog nature reserve Soos, and the nearby Seeberg Castle. Františkovy Lázně, along with the nearby towns of Karlovy Vary and Mariánské Lázně, forms part of the "West Bohemian Spa Triangle," a popular tourist route for those interested in the region's spa culture and history.
Spa center of Františkovy Lázně
Františkovy Lázně Casino
Town Center of Františkovy Lázně
Close-up of a small statue of František (Francis), a boy sitting on a sphere, which is said to bring fertility to women who touch it
Františkovy Lázně architecture
Glauber springs - Františkovy Lázně. Copyright: © Infocentrum Františkovy Lázne Source: Nomination Text 2014 whc.unesco.org/en/documents/172657
Karlovy Vary, Czechia
Karlovy Vary, also known as Carlsbad in German, is located in western Bohemia, Czech Republic. Founded in 1370 by Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV, the town is built around its hot springs, which have been the cornerstone of its fame for centuries. Legend has it that Charles IV discovered the springs while on a hunting expedition, and the town was subsequently named after him. Karlovy Vary is famous for its colonnades that house the thermal springs, its distinctive spa architecture, and its long-standing tradition of spa treatments. The town boasts 13 main springs and about 300 smaller ones, with the best-known being the Vřídlo (Sprudel), which shoots water up to 12 meters high. Visitors can sample the mineral-rich water from specially designed porcelain cups. The town is also renowned for its Becherovka herbal liqueur, Moser glassworks, and as the host of one of Europe's oldest and most prestigious film festivals. Travelers can explore the picturesque town center, take a cable car ride to the Diana Observation Tower for panoramic views, visit the Karlovy Vary Museum to learn about the town's history or indulge in spa treatments at one of the many wellness centers. The surrounding forests offer hiking opportunities, and the town's colonnade walks are perfect for walking.
Mariánské Lázně, Czechia
Mariánské Lázně, also known as Marienbad in German, is a spa town located in the Karlovy Vary Region of western Bohemia, Czech Republic. Founded in the early 19th century by the local monastery, the town quickly gained popularity as a health resort due to its abundance of natural mineral springs. It experienced its golden age in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting numerous notable visitors including kings, emperors, and cultural figures such as Goethe, Chopin, and Mark Twain. The town is famous for its beautiful neo-classical and art nouveau architecture, expansive parks, and of course, its healing mineral springs. There are over 100 mineral springs in the area, with about 40 of them being used for spa treatments. Mariánské Lázně is particularly known for its unique singing fountain, a circular fountain that plays classical music while creating intricate water displays. Visitors can explore the town's colonnades, most notably the cast-iron Colonnade housing the Cross Spring, or take a stroll through the park areas. The town offers various spa treatments, from drinking cures to mud baths. Other attractions include the Miniature Park featuring scale models of famous Czech landmarks, the Geological Park showcasing the region's rich geological history, and the nearby Kynžvart Castle. Golfers can enjoy one of the oldest golf courses in Europe, established in 1905.
Vichy, France
Vichy is a city in central France, located in the Allier department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Known as the "Queen of the Water Cities," Vichy's history as a spa town dates back to Roman times, but it gained particular prominence in the 19th century when Emperor Napoleon III made it his summer residence. This imperial patronage led to a significant development of the town's spa facilities and infrastructure, establishing Vichy as one of Europe's most fashionable spa resorts. Vichy is famous for its thermal springs and their purported healing properties. The town is home to numerous spa centers offering a variety of treatments using the mineral-rich waters. Vichy is also known for its distinctive pastilles, sugar-coated candies flavored with essences from the springs. Historically, Vichy gained notoriety as the seat of France's collaborationist government during World War II, led by Marshal Pétain. Today, visitors can explore this complex history at the Vichy Museum of the Occupation. Visitors to Vichy can enjoy walks along the banks of the Allier River, visit the art nouveau Opera House, or stroll through the town's parks and gardens, including the Parc des Sources with its famous covered walkway. The Hall des Sources allows visitors to taste waters from different springs. For those interested in architecture, Vichy offers a blend of Belle Époque and Art Deco styles. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy golf, tennis, or water sports on nearby Lake Allier. The town also hosts cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals and theatrical performances.
Park near the thermal spa building in Vichy, France
Vichy Opera and Casino
Opera House of the city of Vichy
Inside the thermal water building at Thermes Les Domes in Vichy
The sources hall, in which we find the refreshment bars of the five sources used for the drinking cure. Vichy, France
Conference Centre and Opera House, former Grand Casino
Bad Ems, Germany
The spa town of Bad Ems is located in the Rhineland-Palatinate region of Germany, in the Lahn Valley. The town's history as a health resort dates back to Roman times, but it gained particular fame in the 19th century as a fashionable retreat for European royalty and aristocracy. Notable visitors included Kaiser Wilhelm I, Tsar Alexander II, and writers like Fyodor Dostoevsky and Victor Hugo. The town's mineral-rich waters have been used for centuries to treat various ailments, particularly respiratory and circulatory conditions. Visitors can experience these healing waters at the Emser Therme, a modern spa complex offering thermal baths, saunas, and wellness treatments. The town is also known for its picturesque architecture, including the Kurhaus (spa house) and the Russian Orthodox Church, built for Russian guests in the 19th century. Tourists in Bad Ems can explore the town's history at the municipal museum, take a stroll along the beautiful Lahn promenade, or ride the Kurwaldbahn funicular for panoramic views of the valley. The surrounding area offers numerous hiking and cycling. Visitors can try their luck at the historic casino, one of the oldest in Germany. The town also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals.
Baden-Baden, Germany
Baden-Baden is a spa town located in the southwestern German state of Baden-Württemberg, at the foothills of the Black Forest. It reached its zenith in the 19th century as a summer capital of Europe, attracting royalty, aristocrats, and cultural figures from around the continent. The town's name, which literally means "Baden in Baden," refers to its location in the former state of Baden and its famous baths. The town hosts two main thermal bath complexes: the modern Caracalla Therme and the historic Friedrichsbad, a Roman-Irish bath dating back to 1877. Baden-Baden is known for its elegant Belle Époque architecture, world-class casino (often described as the most beautiful in the world), and cultural institutions. The town is also home to the Festspielhaus, Germany's largest opera and concert hall, and hosts numerous music and cultural festivals throughout the year. Visitors can explore the town's museums, including the Museum Frieder Burda, which houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy one of Europe's oldest golf courses. The surrounding Black Forest provides ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor activities.
Bad Kissingen, Germany
Bad Kissingen is located in the northern part of Bavaria, Germany. The town's history as a spa destination dates back to the 16th century, but it gained particular prominence in the 19th century when it became a favorite retreat for European royalty and nobility, including Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sissi) and Otto von Bismarck. Bad Kissingen is famous for its seven mineral springs, each with unique properties believed to have various health benefits. The town is particularly renowned for its Rakoczy Spring, named after the Hungarian prince Ferenc II Rákóczi, which has been used for drinking cures since the 16th century. Bad Kissingen is also known for its beautiful architecture, including the iconic Wandelhalle (pump room), the largest of its kind in Europe, and the Regentenbau, a grand concert and festival hall. Bad Kissingen provides a range of activities centered around wellness and culture: mineral waters at the various springs, spa treatments at the modern KissSalis Therme, or walks through the Luitpoldpark or along the Saale River. The town offers cultural attractions, including concerts at the Regentenbau, exhibitions at the Museum Obere Saline (which includes Bismarck's former living quarters), and guided tours of the historic town center. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the town's 18-hole course, or explore the surrounding Rhön Biosphere Reserve. Throughout the year, Bad Kissingen hosts various events and festivals, including the Rakoczy Fest, which celebrates the town's spa heritage.
Montecatini Terme, Italy
Montecatini Terme is located in Tuscany, Italy, situated between Florence and Pisa. Montecatini Terme is home to nine thermal establishments, each offering various therapeutic treatments using mineral-rich waters. The most notable of these is Tettuccio Terme, an Art Nouveau masterpiece known for its architecture and frescoed ceilings. Beyond its spa offerings, the town is known for its elegant liberty-style buildings, beautiful parks, and the historic funicular railway that connects Montecatini Terme to Montecatini Alto, the medieval hilltop village offering panoramic views of the Tuscan landscape. Visitors to Montecatini Terme can indulge in various spa treatments, from drinking cures to mud baths and inhalation therapies. The town's central park, Parco delle Terme, provides a serene setting for leisurely walks among century-old trees. Art enthusiasts can explore the Contemporary Art Montecatini, housed in the Town Hall, which features works by notable artists. Tuscan cuisine in the town's many restaurants and cooking classes are readily available. The town's strategic location also makes it an ideal base for exploring other Tuscan highlights like Florence, Pisa, and Lucca. Throughout the year, Montecatini Terme hosts various cultural events, including music festivals and art exhibitions.
Bath, United Kingdom
The City of Bath, located in Somerset, England, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, stunning Georgian architecture, and ancient Roman baths. Founded by the Romans as Aquae Sulis in the 1st century AD, Bath has been a wellness destination for nearly two millennia, famous for its natural hot springs. Bath’s remarkably preserved Roman Baths, a complex of thermae, and ancient bathing facilities built around the city's hot springs are the key features of the city. The Georgian architecture, characterized by honey-colored bathstone, is another major draw, with examples including the Royal Crescent, the Circus, and the Pulteney Bridge. The city is closely associated with Jane Austen, who lived here and set two of her novels, "Northanger Abbey" and "Persuasion," in Bath. Visitors to Bath can explore the Roman Baths and learn about ancient Roman bathing rituals, or indulge in modern spa treatments at the Thermae Bath Spa, which uses the same mineral-rich waters. The Bath Abbey, with its fan-vaulted ceiling and unique ladder of angels, is a highly regarded architectural edifice. Literature enthusiasts can visit the Jane Austen Centre to learn more about the author's life and works. The city offers numerous museums, including the Fashion Museum and the Holburne Museum. For a unique perspective, visitors can take a hot air balloon ride over the city or enjoy a boat trip along the River Avon. Bath also hosts various festivals throughout the year, celebrating literature, music, and food.