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Cultural heritage - Roman bathing culture in Baden-Württemberg

Even the ancient Celts used the divine and healing power of warm water. The Romans, who occupied the area that is now Baden-Württemberg around 70 BC, not only used the Celts' thermal springs, but even adopted their gods and simply made them the companions of their own. But for the Romans, the thermal springs were not mystical places, they were part of the “ars vivendi” (the art of living) and an expression of social status.

Magnificent bathrooms with history 

The Romans built magnificent bathing facilities at the Celtic springs. They were places where people met, talked, haggled and were pampered. The baths also had a kind of “spa” with massages and sweating cures in heated rooms, cosmetic treatments with pumice stone, mud packs, almond bran and drinking cures with mineral waters. In the 5th century, with the fall of the Roman Empire, the advanced spa culture also collapsed. In the 14th century, the public baths fell into disrepute due to infectious diseases and fears of the dark forces.

© Badenweiler Tourismus GmbH

The development of a bathing culture

In the 18th and 19th centuries, in the age of progress and research, the healing effects of water on the human organism were studied intensively. The benefits of additives such as mineral salts, extracts from slag or herbs and essential oils were also recognized. At the same time, the thermal baths were also redesigned, resulting in magnificent domed buildings and splendid baths. A rich spa culture developed and the social elite met in the elegant spas to maintain their health and enjoy cultural life. These places became centers of sensual pleasure and social life where life and health were celebrated.

This glorious era came to an abrupt end with the world wars. Today, the long tradition is experiencing a new upswing. Awareness of the importance of maintaining one's own health is becoming increasingly important. Health and wellness facilities are adapting to the new demands of their guests and offer pure health and relaxation in an inviting feel-good atmosphere.

© CARASANA Bäderbetriebe GmbH
© CARASANA Bäderbetriebe GmbH

From the baths to the thermal baths

Nowadays, spas are a blessing for body and soul. Due to geothermal activity, the water is at least 20 degrees when it comes out of the spring and is rich in minerals that can have a soothing and regenerating effect on the skin and muscles. Spas can also provide ideal opportunities for relaxation and relief from muscle and joint pain. The combination of warm water and natural minerals makes them a popular place for wellness enthusiasts. Baden-Württemberg offers a variety of spas and baths where you can take a break from the stresses of everyday life.


References

https://naturgesund-bw.de/historische-baeder/

Badenweiler
Baden-Baden
Bad Wildbad

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