|
HISTORY OF SPAS AND HOT
TUBS
The oldest known spa (mineral bath) still in
existence is in Merano Italy where there is evidence of organized
use of the spring dating back 5000 years ago.
It is thought that the Egyptians used baths for
therapeutic purposes as early as 2000 B.C... Evidence of actual spa
construction also exists from Phraortes, King of Media, in 600 B.C...
The earliest forms of hot tubs were simply a caldera in which
sizzling stones had been placed to heat the water.
Greeks SPA History
Mineral and thermal baths showed up later in history around 500 B.C.
in Greece. The early Greek baths were built near natural hot springs
or volcanoes. Greek celebrities and the elite would meet at these
natural hot springs to exchange philosophical views and treat
physical ailments. Hippocrates (460-375 B.C.), believed to be the
founder of medicine, recommended hydrotherapy for the treatment of
disorders such as jaundice and rheumatism.
Roman SPA History
The Romans also enjoyed the mineral waters, but the ancient
Roman baths were more recreational areas used by hundreds of
citizens at a time as opposed personal hygiene and hydrotherapy.
Stone bath tubs were serviced by elaborate aqueduct systems carrying
mineral waters throughout complex private rooms, steam rooms and
public baths. The largest of all Roman baths was the Diocletian. It
was completed in A.D. 305 and covered an area of 130,000 sq. yards.
Romans would first go to the unctuarium where they
had oil rubbed onto their skin. Next they would move to the
tepidarium or warm room where they would lie around chatting. From
there, it was on to the hot and steamy caldarium, similar to a
Turkish bath. Here they sat and perspired, scraping their skin with
a curved metal tool. After a dip in the caldarium (hot bath) they
would take a quick dip in the frigidarium (cold bath).
Town of Spa History
Once part of the Roman Empire (now east of Belgium), the town of Spa
is where the word "spa" was derived. To this day, the town is still
a well known resort for baths and mineral springs. The word "spa"
(originally Hungarian) became a generic expression referring to
natural mineral springs and surrounding areas where people came to
relax and take "The Cure".
British SPA History
The waters of Bath, England were used for healing purposes from
about 800 B.C. and the British royalty continued to use the waters
well into the 20th century. Around 1589 according to historians,
Queen Elizabeth I insisted on bathing at least once a month,
"whether she needed it or not". Five baths were established within
the town including the King's Bath and Cross Bath which became a
popular spa with lepers and rheumatics.
Experience for Yourself
the Softness, the Comfort, and the Ease of
Order Here
|
