UNESCO

UNESCO Spa Towns

In 2021, UNESCO declared the "Great Spa Towns of Europe" a World Heritage Site, recognizing the universal value of European spa culture developed since the 18th century.

Why are they World Heritage Sites?

These eleven towns represent the cultural exchange that transformed European medicine, science, leisure and architecture between the 18th century and early 20th century.

They developed a unique urban model: the "spa town", with pump rooms, colonnades, casinos, theaters, luxury hotels and landscaped parks.

UNESCO Inscription: July 24, 2021, as a transnational cultural property under the name "The Great Spa Towns of Europe".

The 11 UNESCO Spa Towns

1

Baden bei Wien

Austria

Spa town south of Vienna with traditions dating back to Roman times. Famous for its sulphurous waters.

Roman bathsImperial architectureHistoric casino
2

Spa

Belgium

The town that gave its name to all spas worldwide. Thermal center since the 16th century.

Origin of the word "spa"Ferruginous watersLes Thermes de Spa
3

Františkovy Lázně

Czech Republic

Small Bohemian gem with neoclassical architecture. Specialized in gynecological treatments.

Neoclassical architectureHistoric parksIntimate atmosphere
4

Karlovy Vary

Czech Republic

The most famous Czech spa town. Waters emerging at 72°C and elegant Austro-Hungarian architecture.

Hot thermal springsFilm festivalHistoric colonnades
5

Mariánské Lázně

Czech Republic

Second largest Czech spa town. Known for its singing fountain and gardens.

Singing fountainOver 40 springsExtensive parks
6

Bad Ems

Germany

Elegant spa in the Lahn valley. Frequented by European royalty in the 19th century.

Historic KurhausEmperor's PromenadeCarbonic waters
7

Baden-Baden

Germany

The most luxurious of German spas. Destination of European aristocracy since the 19th century.

Friedrichsbad & CaracallaLegendary casinoCulture and art
8

Bad Kissingen

Germany

Bavarian spa with seven different springs. Center of German spa architecture.

Seven springsGradierwerkSpa architecture
9

Montecatini Terme

Italy

The grand spa of Tuscany. Nine thermal establishments in a belle époque setting.

Nine thermal bathsArt nouveauFunicular to Montecatini Alto
10

City of Bath

United Kingdom

The best preserved Roman baths in northern Europe. UNESCO Heritage since 1987.

Roman BathsGeorgian architectureThermae Bath Spa
11

Vichy

France

The queen of French spa towns. World famous for its waters and cosmetics.

Public fountainsOpera and casinoCosmetic tradition