Introduction to Tuscan Spas & Thermal resorts
Italy's richness in thermal and mineral waters, combined with
the mildness of the climate and the beauty of the scenery,
have made it a favourite venue for "health care tourism".
Since the last century hotels with extensive facilities have
grown up around spas, which have established international
reputations. Abano, Salsomaggiore, Chianciano, Montecatini,
Fiuggi and Ischia are just a few names among the many which
are known throughout the world and which attract millions
of visitors every year.
 Thermal
waters in Italy
In this field Italy has taken up and developed a practice
which has been widespread through-out the peninsula since
the time of the Romans, when thermal waters and baths were
already a typical feature of town life. Interest in the Italian
spas is not exclusively for health care reasons. Their proximity
to great centers of art makes the spa resorts excellent bases
for cultural excursions. In addition the splendid parks surrounding
the most famous spas, and the infrastructure which has been
created for leisure activities, make them ideal holiday resorts
in their own right. Italian thermal spas are not only those
which exploit hot water resources (as the literal meaning
of the word "thermal" might suggest) since mineral
water springs are now also generally included in this category.
 Thermal
waters in Tuscany
This is the region of the thermal springs. Waters
that relax and cure all sorts of pathologies, with springs
gushing at high temperatures in every area of Tuscany and
around which modern, functional and well-cared-for thermal
establishments have been created.
Precious waters that were already known
of, exploited and appreciated in ancient times; both in the
Etruscan and Roman eras; waters in which famous celebrities
from history, politics, literature and religion have immersed
themselves; waters in which visitors from all over still bathe
today. All the Tuscan thermal spas are equipped with avant-garde
therapeutic structures and the most modern diagnostics systems,
apart from which they are all set in the wonderful nature
of the Tuscan countryside, near the cities of art and ancient
villages so as to also offer the chance for tours and excursions.
The surrounding environment aids the beneficial effects
of the waters. On the other hand, these spas are
not just therapeutic centres but also a source of general
psychic and physical regeneration: the beneficial effects
of the warm waters restore wellbeing to the body and soul,
offering health and relaxation. Mankind's right, they are
also legally sanctioned.
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