Italy Spa Hotels Italy spa hotels: Regions Latium
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The origins of the passion for spa baths can certainly be attributed to the Romans. Roman people used them as a centre for socializing, relaxation and well-being, and exported them to all the places they colonized. The city of Rome was the cradle of spa-bathing in the Roman era. The largest baths in Rome were the Terme di Diocleziano, the Terme di Caracalla, the Terme di Tito, the Terme di Agrippa, the Terme Neroniane and those of the Emperor Costantino. Some evidence of that original magnificence still remains today in the form of such baths as the Terme Acque Albulae at Bagni di Tivoli.
The springs at the Terme dei Papi gush from the water-table of the Cimini mountains, at Viterbo. These baths earned their name because in medieval times they were patronized by many of the popes. They were also mentioned by Dante and by Michelangelo. Within this huge thermal complex the remains of at least 14 bath structures from the Roman era are preserved. The waters are said to be particularly good for treating osteo-articular conditions and diseases of the bronchial system. The spa baths of Fiuggi (FR), sited in the small medieval town of the same name, are well-known throughout the world. Their waters are prized for their excellent purifying properties. In addition, these baths are surrounded by the most beautiful countryside, with pine and oak woods, as well as historic towns and villages of great architectural interest. At Castel Sant’Angelo, a village in the province of Rieti, we can find the Terme di Cotilia. The village lies in the Valle del Velino, and is one of the most fascinating spots in the Appenines, with its springs and sources of subterranean and ground water. The Romans used it as a spa-resort, as is evidenced by the remains of some Roman roads from the time of the Emperor Vespasian and his son Titus, amongst others. |
