Historic Spas of Europe
A journey through 2000 years of European spa culture, from Roman baths to the grand spas of the 19th century.
Europe's thermal heritage
Europe has been the world center of thermalism for millennia. The Romans exported their public bath culture throughout the empire, and that tradition was reinvented in each era.
Today, we can bathe in the same waters used by Roman emperors, medieval kings and 19th century aristocracy.
Roman Era
1st century BC - 5th century ADRomans built public baths throughout Europe. Many current spas preserve Roman remains or traditions.
Bath
Aquae Sulis, the best preserved Roman baths in northern Europe
Baden-Baden
Aquae Aureliae, founded by Romans 2000 years ago
Aix-les-Bains
Aquae Gratianae, with remains of the Temple of Diana
Middle Ages
5th - 15th centuryAfter Rome fell, many spas were abandoned, but some monasteries maintained the thermal tradition.
Spa
Documented since the 14th century, origin of the term "spa"
Karlovy Vary
Discovered by Charles IV in 1370 according to legend
Caldas de Reis
Used continuously since Roman times
19th Century - Belle Époque
1800 - 1914The golden age of European thermalism. Construction of grand hotels, casinos and spa promenades.
Mariánské Lázně
Developed as a spa town from 1808
Vichy
Napoleon III's favorite, with imperial architecture
Bad Ems
Where emperors took the waters
20th Century
1914 - 2000Democratization of thermalism. Spas went from exclusive to accessible.
Hévíz
Development as a medical treatment center
Blue Lagoon
Created in 1976 as a geothermal byproduct
Therme Erding
World's largest spa, opened in 1999