BADEN BADEN -THE PLACE WITH THE LICENCE TO THRILL
Germany had many spas such as Bad Homburg, Wiesbaden, and Bad Ems that were favoured by the European elite but none more famous than Baden-Baden. The German Black Forest town Baden-Baden is famous for its hot springs that gave the town its name. Bad (say the “a” as in “what”) in German means bath, or spa if added to a town name – Baden-Baden justifiably got it double.
Baden-Baden has 23 hot springs where water boils from around 2,000 m below the ground to bubble out at the surface at temperatures up to 68°C (154°F). Daily, around 800.00 litres of mineral-rich waters feed the fountains and spas of Baden-Baden.
HISTORY
The Celts already enjoyed the hot springs of Baden-Baden but after the Romans evicted them around AD 70, bathing was elevated to high culture. Parts of the Roman baths were rediscovered during the nineteenth century and can now be seen in the Römische Badruinen (Ruins of the Roman Baths) in the center of town.
Baden-Baden remained an important town even after the Franks drove out the Romans. As the capital of the Duchy Baden, it was an important residence town. From the Middle Ages, people visited the mineral springs of Baden-Baden in hope of miracle cures.
During the 19thnd early 20th centuries, Baden-Baden was at its peak. In the peace that followed in Europe after the defeat of Napoleon, kings, rulers, and noblemen traveled and taking to the waters became a popular summertime attraction.
THERMAL SPRING WATER
The curative water rises from a depth of around 6,500 feet under Baden-Baden, reaching the surface at temperatures of between 50°C and 68°C. On its long journey from the earth’s interior, the spring water reaches the surface mainly as sodium chloride. But that’s not all. There are small amounts of other minerals such as: lithium, cesium, silica, boric acid, manganese, magnesium, as well as traces of cobalt, zinc and copper. And it’s these minerals which we can thank for the curative effect. Whether its cardiovascular problems, metabolism upsets or respiratory complaints – the healing powers of our springs promote your good health and well-being. As well as this, the warmth of the spring water aids blood circulation in the muscles, joints and skin. Make the most of the special healing effects of the Baden-Baden springs. It’s a wonderful experience for mind, body and soul.
The thermal water is particularly effective in the treatment of the following conditions: spinal and locomotive disorders, chronic inflammatory rheumatic conditions, rheumatoid arthritiss, arthrosis, progressive degenerative joint and spine diseases, post-operative treatment and locomotive injuries, functional circulatory disturbances, nervous system disorders, gynaecological disorders, respiratory tract disorders.
FRIEDRICHSBAD (Historic bathing temple)
Discover the magnificent atmosphere of the Friedrichsbad for yourself and luxuriate in a bathing tradition which is 130 years old. When it was opened in 1877, this temple of well-being was considered the most modern bathing house in all of Europe – and its fascination remains just as strong today.
In the Friedrichsbad you follow 17 steps to better health and well-being, all working in harmony for the best possible results. At first, your body temperature rises slowly in the warm and hot air up to stage number 8. Then the water in the following basins gets bit by bit cooler and so the body temperature adjusts and goes back down softly. This pleasant form of bathing gets your circulation going, strengthens your immune system, is wonderful for the skin and relaxes.
Traditionally men and women bathe separately in the Friedrichsbad. On the separate bathing days men and women meet in the fascinating domed hall of the Friedrichsbad (stages 10-11). Separate days are Monday, Thursday, and Saturday. Since 1st November 2009 you can bathe with your partner on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays and public holidays.
Opening hours: 9:00-22:00
(last admission 2 hours before closing)
Tickets: 21 EUR/person
With more than 3,000 m² the Caracalla Spa offers lots of scope for you to unwind in relaxation and bathe at leisure in the healing thermal water. The bathing area with its large variety of bathing pools and the Roman saunascape with an outdoor area in the picturesque castle gardens invite you to relax and enjoy.
Apart from the attractive bathing pools, the spacious interior also houses a rock grotto with hot and cold water, a regenerating aroma steam bath and a saltwater inhalation room. The massage and airjets as well as the neck showers complete the unique experience of well-being. he spacious outdoor area comprises two large marble pools, a water current, a waterfall and two whirlpools.
Give yourself plenty of time and enjoy the unique atmosphere of our "Roman Saunascape" with its mosaics and pillars as well as various exhibits and antiques. The outdoor area in the picturesque castle gardens is yet another highlight of the Caracalla Spa which you shouldn't miss.
Opening hours: 9:00-22:00
(last admission 2 hours before closing)
Tickets: 14 EUR/person/2 hours, 17 EUR/person/3 hours, 20 EUR/person/4 hours
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