Bathhouses around the world are known for healing the body and soul
Traces of flamboyant bathhouses were first discovered in Neolithic Age when nomadic tribes would bask in the seeming comfort of heat by soaking in the natural hot springs. Perhaps the first evidence of a well-construed public bath was found by discovering the Great Bath of Mohenjo-Daro, built in 2500 BC.
Gellert Baths and Spa, Budapest: Built between 1912 and 1918 and designed in Art Nouveau style, Gellert is the crowning glory of Budapest reputation as the Spa City. Besides its century-old legacy, the bath complex has a rich legacy. The thermal bath was enjoyed by the Romans and later Ottomans to whom the springs were no less than a godsend. The architectural splendour enjoys tremendous popularity for its stunning beauty; the swimming pool is decked with columns and covered by a glass roof on top. Opened to public, it offers wine therapy and chocolate treatments.
Sanduny Banya, Moscow, Russia: Revered as Moscow’s first stone bath, Sanduny pays homage to centuries of banya tradition—typically consisting of steam rooms furnished with wooden benches, flora and cold water pools. In 1890, the public bathhouse was blessed with a radical transformation inspired by international bathhouse culture. Besides being an absolute visual beauty, it is well-equipped with modern amenities including expensive water filter and aqueduct.
The Blue Lagoon, Grindavik, Iceland: A timeless attraction in Iceland, the lagoon is situated on the Reykjanes Peninsula and was declared one of the top 25 Wonders of the World by National Geographic. The geothermal hot spring is on the bucket list of many adventurous globetrotters and offers premium spa packages for luxury and comfort. The water has a glowing milky bluish-green tinge and is replete with salts, silica mud and sulphur.
Cagaloglu Hamam, Istanbul, Turkey: Cagaloglu was built during the Ottoman Empire in Turkey during 1741 and its cultural legacy of three centuries is cautiously preserved in grand architectural style-- ornamental decoration, arched ceilings, marble gobetaksi and lantern-dazzled domes. Eminent historical figures like Florence Nightingale and Edward VIII are known to have rinsed themselves in the spa’s waters.
Leukerbad Therme, Switzerland: Leuerbad nestled in the laps of the Swiss Alps offers natural underground water at a stunning altitude of 1400 metres above sea levels. In proximity, you will find 65 springs that replenish gallons of mineral-rich water for thermal baths. Travellers who spend a hectic day partaking in hectic mountain sports, resort to this largest thermal spa to re-energise.
