Montecatini Terme - how much are rejuvenating apples in Italy? Montecatini Terme Prices for basic treatments

At the foot of the Apennine Mountains in the valley of the Nievole River, the most prestigious health resort of Tuscany unfolded - Montecatini Terme. The city is not difficult to find on the map of Italy, it is located between Florence (38 km) and Pisa (47 km), but slightly north of them.

Location of Montecatini on the map of Italy

The resort has become famous thanks to the healing effects of mineral waters from local sources on the human body.

Baths in Montecatini Terme were discovered in ancient times. But they received official recognition only in 1417, when the work of the professor of medicine Ugolino de Montecatini "Peculiarities of Italian baths" was published.

The first bath-baths appeared in 1530 under the name "Medici baths".

The construction of solid baths to attract tourists in Montecatini Terme began in 1733, the Tuscan Duke Leopold of Habsburg-Lorain. First, Bagno Regio and Terme Leopoldina were built. And in 1779 a building was erected over the most famous source of the city, now these are the Tettuccio Baths.

Water from these sources is similar in composition to blood plasma and has a unique therapeutic effect.

How to get there

Railway. The presence of two railway stations in Montecatini makes it possible to easily get here from Florence. The train to Montecatini on the route Florence - Viareggio runs every half hour.
Bus. Bus service is well developed. You can get from Florence to Montecatini Terme in 30 minutes. Pistoia is 15 minutes' drive away. The bus will cover the distance from Montecatini Terme to Luca (33 km) in half an hour.
Airplane. The nearest arrival points are half an hour from Montecatini. These are Lucca, Florence and Pisa. Longest distance from Montecatini to Bologna (127 km) and Rome (320 km). Buses run regularly from the airports. The cost of a transfer from Florence and Lucca will cost about 100 euros, to get to Montecatini from Bologna, you will have to pay 230 euros, from Rome - about 500 euros.
Automobile. The A11 federal highway is a suitable option for those who travel by car.

Climate

The mild weather conditions of the resort contribute to relaxation throughout the year. Humid air and restrained weather in Montecatini Terme are associated with the city's location in the subtropical climate zone. The average temperature in summer is 22 degrees, in winter - 8 degrees. For lovers of sunbathing, the best time to travel is from May to September.

June, July, August are the hottest months, the average air temperature is 30-32 degrees. The chance of precipitation is very low.

In September, the temperature drops to 25 degrees. Small chance of rain. In October, the air warms up to 20 degrees, at night - 12 degrees. The rainiest months are November, March and May. In November, the average temperature is 14 degrees. The coldest period in the resort is from December to February, when the average temperature does not exceed 8-10 degrees Celsius.

Traditional cuisine and restaurants

Behind the apparent simplicity of Tuscan cuisine lies real culinary skills and national traditions. The main assistants in the preparation of Italian delights are olive oil and a variety of seasonings - oregano, basil, sage, rosemary.

Among the first courses, ribollita (black cabbage soup) is considered popular.

A typical local dish is "pappardelle"(noodles with hare sauce). The most popular types of bread are bozza and filone.

Where to stay

Hotels in Montecatini Terme are among the most comfortable in Italy. The high level of service and maximum amenities will satisfy even the most demanding guests.

If you book a room in advance, it is quite possible to get luxurious accommodation at an affordable price.

Not far from the park are the most comfortable in the city Montecatini Palace, Grand Hotel Tettuccio and Grand Croce di Malta.

Montecatini Palace Hotel, the first five-star design hotel in Montecatini Terme

These hotels feature restaurants, gyms, swimming pools and spas.
Among 3 star hotels, a good option are Mediterraneo and Tuscany Inn Montecatini Terme.
For lovers of comfort and privacy, apartments are perfect. Travelers who have visited Montecatini Terme in their reviews of the resort recommend Residence Charme.

Treatment in Montecatini Terme

The resort of Montecatini Terme is one of the most prestigious and beautiful places in Italy. Guests are provided with the oldest baths, the water of which has therapeutic properties. The healing springs in Montecatini Terme have long been popular not only among ordinary tourists, but also among famous artists, writers, musicians who come to drink healing water and improve their health.

Among the 8 springs and 11 spas, the most popular should be noted - the Terme Leopoldine (the mineral spring beats from the fountain), the Terme Tettuccio (baths and balneological center), the Terme Excelsior - the most comfortable spa center of Montecatini.

Thermae Leopoldina and Tettuccio called the "family coat of arms" of Montecatini Terme.

The waters belong to the group of salt-sulfate-bicarbonate-soda

The main indications for treatment in thermal springs are:
• violations of the functions of the stomach, kidneys, intestines;
• rheumatism, arthritis;
• respiratory diseases.

Treatment methods used at the resort:
• balneotherapy - bathing, hydromassage;
• mud treatment;
• hydrotherapy;
• inhalation therapy.

The springs of the Spa Montecatini are fed by four sources, each of which boasts special therapeutic properties.

Procedures are an effective means of preventing and treating various diseases, up to serious pathologies.

Attractions and excursions

It is advisable to start a tour of the cultural places of the resort from its historical part - Montecatini Alto, which is located on a high hill.

You can go up there by funicular, which has been operating since 1898.

The medieval fortress and the Church of Carmine with an altar board from the 14th century are worthy of the attention of lovers of historical heritage.

Montecatini Alto has a beautiful view of the surroundings

The park, which is located on Verdi Street (Viale Verdi), impresses with its splendor and variety of green spaces.
For visitors who wish to explore the surrounding area, rental offices will offer car rental. It is recommended to include Florence and the Florence Cathedral, Pisa and its leaning tower, Siena with Piazza Del Campo and the bell tower, the Leonardo da Vinci Museum (Vinci city) and the Pinnochio Museum (Collodi city) in the visit program.
After a tour around Montecatini, you can stop by for a swim in the sea in Viareggio (about 50 km).

Recreation and entertainment

The guests of the resort are provided with a huge number of entertainment programs - bars, discos, restaurants, a tennis court and even a golf club.

A special place in Montecatini Terme, as evidenced by the shopping reviews of resort guests, is occupied by elite stores of shoes, leather accessories and outerwear.

The highest quality of products and a decent level of service in boutiques attract connoisseurs of good purchases here.

After watching the video, you can learn more about holidays in Montecatini:

Montecatini Terme is the pleasure of relaxation, the invigorating power of thermal springs, amazing cuisine and chic restaurants, natural paradises and unforgettable experiences.

If heaven exists, then it is definitely in Montecatini Terme!

Almost every person, somewhere in the depths of his soul, dreams of visiting such a beautiful tourist town as Montecatini. This is a very beautiful and fascinating place, which is famous all over the world for its inspiring landscapes and ancient Roman architecture. Also here is the cleanest air, which is very useful for the human body.

The city is rich in a vibrant natural area and a huge variety of fascinating attractions that certainly deserve your attention. Among other things, Montecatini is also famous for its thermal springs, which are so loved by vacationers.

The legendary castle of Montecatini Alto cannot leave anyone indifferent. This very bright majestic ancient building is located on a hill whose height is approximately 290 - 300 meters. This building offers a wonderful view of the extraordinary beauty of this wonderful town.

You can get to the castle on a stunning funicular, which also allows you to enjoy an unforgettable panorama. Also, a large number of different shops and restaurants are actively operating near the castle, where you can have a delicious meal and buy a souvenir.

The Baths of Tettuccio is the most popular and favorite place of all tourists. In addition to being a very beautiful architectural building, it is also the oldest impressive thermal complex of the resort town of Montecatini.

In fact, water from this source is useful not only for external use, but also for drinking. After all, it is very tasty and healthy, as it contains a huge amount of vitamins and minerals that are so necessary for the human body. It is very useful for people who have problems with the gastrointestinal tract. The locals call the Baths of Tettuccio not only a beautiful, but also a very useful attraction of this city.

These are the antique baths in Montecatini Terme, a famous balneological resort in Italy. This is a very beautiful architectural building, which, with its unsurpassed beauty, attracts vacationers. Very often, various art exhibitions and other events are held here, which will be very interesting to visit.

This great building is located on the territory of a majestic park with mineral springs. The park is looked after daily, which is why tourists enjoy spending time in a beautiful, green and clean place. In general, there is something to see and what to interest yourself.

The current Church of St. Peter (Chiesa di San Pietro) XI century

For those who are true connoisseurs of religious architecture, it will be very interesting to visit this wonderful place. The very atmosphere of this building contributes to inner peace and tranquility. The doors to the church are always open for new guests, which is why every self-respecting person can visit it.

In most cases, St. Peter's Church impresses tourists not only with its atmosphere, but also with its impeccable appearance. This is a very beautiful and bright architectural building that cannot leave any tourist indifferent.

Location: Vicolo del Prataccio - 1.

No less striking monument of history and culture is also a medieval fortress of the XIII century. This is a massive tower, which attracts tourists with its menacing and very beautiful appearance.

This tower stands out among neighboring buildings. Sometimes, on weekends, interesting and entertaining excursions are held here for tourists, which help tourists learn much more information that is useful to them. It is located on one of the hills from where you can see wonderful landscapes on the beautiful panorama of this romantic city. In general, this place definitely deserves your attention and visit.

This stunning architectural building is dedicated to Saints Jacopo and Filippo. This magnificent building has been perfectly preserved to our time, which cannot but rejoice.

This church was built in 1296, which is quite a long time ago. This beautiful baroque building attracts the attention of passing tourists. The main treasure of the church is the legendary painting depicting the Martyrdom of St. Sebastian, which was painted back in 1595. The main advantage of this church among other temples is a massive bell tower.

Few people know that Elba is the third largest island in Italy. Its area is approximately 223 sq. km. The beaches on this island are very clean and well maintained. In most cases, this is what attracts tourists.

This island has more than 130 beaches, which is quite a lot. Among other things, the island also actively operates a large number of various restaurants, hotels and other entertainment from which tourists simply run up their eyes. All the conditions for a luxurious vacation are created here, because it is so beautiful here.

This complex is a grandiose building made of travertine, the large hall is divided into three zones, intended for drinking water, pastime, and also a bar. Tourists are attracted by the extraordinary architecture of this stunning building and the atmosphere that reigns in this area.

At the entrance to the building there is a huge statue of Aistra, which is located in the middle of a large fountain. It often hosts a variety of bright events, concerts and exhibitions, which are so fond of curious tourists.

In general, Montecatini is a very beautiful city that really deserves your attention. In addition to all the above attractions, you can visit a number of other equally interesting places in Montecatini that cannot be left unattended.

Where is Montecatini Terme (Italy) located? The country map includes information about a small town in the Tuscan region. It occupies the eastern end of the Lucca plain. It is famous in the country of springs, it is called the heart of Tuscany. The city is located in the province of Pistoia, at an altitude of 29 meters above sea level. Distance to Pisa - 47 km, to Florence - 38 km. The resort area is called the valley of fogs. This is explained simply: due to the constant evaporation of groundwater, a light foggy haze forms, covering the foothills of the Apennines with the thinnest chiffon.

The entire infrastructure of the city is aimed at optimizing the health complex, known for its spa treatments and unique mineral healing water. However, the city attracts many tourists not only because of the opportunity to improve their health. Montecatini Terme has many cultural and historical attractions. In addition, you can have fun visiting local clubs and discos, riding a funicular or trying your luck in one of the casinos.

Famous vacationers

Which of the world-famous people visited At one time, the great tenor Beniamino Gigli liked to visit him. In addition, Ruggero Leonquallo (composer) and (playwright, writer) came to the small town. And even the most cruel ruler in the history of Italy - Benito Mussolini - visited this resort.

In the spring of 2012, Svetlana Medvedeva, the wife of the current prime minister, was vacationing at the resort. The visit of a high-ranking guest caused a wide spread In the hope of an influx of wealthy Russian tourists, all the signs on the local streets were duplicated in Russian.

Another interesting fact: the famous director Nikita Mikhalkov filmed the film Black Eyes about the romantic feelings of an Italian for a Russian noblewoman in Montecatini.

Treatment

The city of Montecatini Terme (Italy) consists of three zones - the old district of Montecatini Alto, the resort area and the territory for tourists. The ancient baths are especially popular. Among them is the Excelsior baths, which has comfortable saunas, a beautiful fountain and modern equipment for all kinds of therapeutic procedures. Another famous bath is Tettuccio. The first baths in the history of the region were discovered on its territory.

On the basis of the city balneological complex Groccio, rehabilitation programs, physiotherapy procedures, massage are carried out. The complex features an outdoor pool and thermal baths.

Healing mineral water allows you to solve problems with the functioning of the musculoskeletal system, with metabolism, diseases of the respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract.

Montecatini Terme (Italy) has eight mineral springs. At the same time, five of them are used to obtain drinking medicinal water, and the rest are involved in programs based on taking baths with mineral water and mud treatment. Cosmetic and spa treatments are very popular.

Where to stay?

Are you planning to spend your holidays in Montecatini Terme (Italy)? Experienced travelers' reviews include information about local hotels. It is noted that accommodation in one of them will cost a tidy sum. However, in return you can get high-class service and more than decent living conditions. It is recommended to book a room in the hotel you like in advance. This will save you a lot. However, you should not count on small costs, since the resort in question has an excellent international reputation, therefore, the prices there are higher than in Italy as a whole.

Unfortunately, in most hotels, even the most upscale ones, their own medical complexes do not function. This disadvantage is compensated by the presence of the city center Groccio and a large number of special thermal baths.

Verdi Street runs along the city park. It houses a tourist information center. Using its services, you can get answers to all questions regarding the city infrastructure and the functioning of the health complex.

Attractions

From the resort to the historical part of the city can be reached by funicular. He began to work at the dawn of the twentieth century.

The Verdi Theater is one of the main attractions of Montecatini Terme (Italy). Reviews of enthusiastic travelers will leave no doubt about the need to visit this most interesting place. The theater was built in 1930, and soon the music from Aida, a work written by the great master, sounded in its main hall. Giuseppe Verdi visited Montecatini Terme quite often. He loved this city with all his heart.

In the old district, there are many different sights. From the observation deck you can admire stunning landscapes. Significant architectural structures are the Gusti Church, Roman Avenue, an arched gallery on the street. Verdi and the building of the local municipality.

The urban area is small - only seventeen square kilometers. The entire Montecatini Terme (photos are presented in the article) can be seen in a day, and for this it is not at all necessary to use public transport. Many are interested in sitting in local restaurants and watching the locals. Among the culinary desserts, ice cream and small thin Cialde wafers with an incredibly tasty filling are especially distinguished. A leisurely walk along the narrow city streets will provide a lot of impressions.

A fifteen minute drive is the small village of Vinci. The famous Leonardo da Vinci lived there. The house in which this world-famous Italian was born is now a museum.

Climatic features

The weather in Montecatini Terme is conducive to a beach holiday, and even in the hottest months, the thermometer rarely rises above thirty degrees. The average temperature in winter is from two to ten degrees Celsius. High mountains and dense green vegetation contribute to clean air and a favorable mild climate.

A bit of history

It is established that the first person in the vicinity of Montecatini Terme appeared a very long time ago. As far back as the Paleolithic times, this region was inhabited by nomad hunters. During the Mesolithic era, the greatest activity was observed in the zone of the Valdinivol hills. The center of this territory was the city of Montecatini Terme. At the beginning of the fourteenth century, the lands of Valdinivol were under the threat of capture by the Florentines, the main rulers of the surrounding territories. However, the plans of the conquerors were not destined to come true due to the outbreak of the Ghibelline uprising led by the Uguccione case Fagiola. However, the latter did not achieve much success in the conquest of Montecatini Terme. Another contender for power in the region was Castrucho Castracani, but he failed to subjugate the lands of Tuscany. From 1323, the power of the Florentines began to slowly but surely recover.

1530 is marked by the appearance of the first baths in Montecatini. They were built at the foot of the hill of the same name. They were called "blackbird baths".

The period of relative calm was short-lived - already in 1554, the city, as a result of a military conflict between Piero Strozzi and Cosimo I, was under the occupation of Siena. As a result, Montecatini Terme (Italy) became a miserable dilapidated settlement with impoverished inhabitants. In addition, the area has become a health hazard due to stagnant water in the Fukecho swamps. Over time, local entrepreneurs managed to find support abroad. With the assistance of Count Leopold, drainage channels were built, as a result, the area began to recover. To attract people to the hot springs, the baths of Tettuccio, Bagno Regio and Terme Leopoldina were built.

How about no shopping?

Resorts in Italy boast a large number of different shops. In this regard, the city in question is no exception. In Montecatini Terme there are outlets with goods of all price categories. The only inconvenience is that they work at the same time as the terms. The afternoon siesta and the closing of all shops at 7-8 pm make it difficult to enjoy shopping to the fullest. Tourists are pleasantly surprised by the fact that many local sellers speak Russian.

Getting to the resort

The A-11 motorway passes through Montecatini Terme. In addition, you can use the services of railway transport. From Florence, Lucca and Viargeo, trains run regularly to the described resort, they leave every thirty minutes and stop at both stations in the city.

Conclusion

Are you attracted by its beauties of Italy? Travel itineraries can be very different depending on personal preferences, but Montecatini Terme is recommended for everyone - connoisseurs of antiquity, beach lovers, and those who want to restore their health.

Montecatini Terme is a small Italian town at the foot of the Apennine Mountains, which is famous for its mineral waters. There are 8 springs here, 3 of which are used for balneological treatment, and the water of 5 of them can be taken orally. Water as the main wealth is depicted on the coat of arms of the city. Due to the constant evaporation of water, the air here is humid. Even in hot weather it is nice to be under the sun and in the shade. And water droplets create a feeling of light fog. Therefore, the territory of the resort town is also called the “valley of fogs”.

Local clinics and treatment centers are among the best in the world.

On the territory of Montecatini Terme there are several beautiful spa hotels that do not deal with treatment: for this, you additionally need to contact specialized clinics. Or just limit yourself to bathing in thermal baths and fresh air, saturated with trace elements.

The healing properties of local springs were discovered in ancient times. And in the 1530s, the first baths were built here, where you could soak up the mineral waters, restore health and beauty.

Today, the city of Montecatini in Italy is visited annually by tens of thousands of tourists. Someone goes to admire the picturesque views, someone goes here in the hope of getting rid of diseases and improving health.

Detailed information can be found by visiting the official website of the resort city.

Attractions

This is one of the small but beautiful and interesting towns in Italy. In addition to sanatoriums and spa centers, there are many interesting sights and beautiful places for walking.

Montecatini Alto is the center of the city, located on a hill. In addition to the picturesque architecture on the streets, from here you can admire the view of the city and the baths. From the lower part of the city you can get here by funicular.

The medieval fortress of the 13th century is definitely worth seeing: the architectural traditions of that time have been preserved here. When you get here, it's like being transported back several centuries.

Carmine Church was built by the monks of the Carmelite Order in 1296. In general, the architecture of those times has been preserved, but the baroque spirit is still noticeable in the exterior: in 1764 the building was restored.

Montecatini Terme Photos

Montecatini on the map of Italy: how to get there?

It is located in the center of the province of Tuscany. The nearest cities are Florence and Pisa, they are within 40 km. Pisa and Livorno are also nearby, but getting from them to the resorts is not always convenient.

Buses to the resort town run from almost every city in Italy. For example, a trip here from Rome will cost about 13 €.

How to get from Moscow: by plane to the nearest airport - in Pisa or Florence. Then you can go by train.

On the territory of Montecatini Terme there are two railway stations, electric trains run every 20-30 minutes.

You can also take a bus from Florence. A taxi from the airport to the city will cost almost 100 €.

Best hotels

Since the beginning of the 20th century, tourism has developed in the city of Montecatini Terme. Around the same time, hotels began to be built here, the level of service in which improved every year.

Today here you can find holiday options for every budget - from budget to luxury hotels.

Most popular:

1. Grand Hotel & La Pace Spa- one of the most luxurious, where politicians, show business stars, owners of large companies often stop. The hotel has been operating since 2009. Movies have been filmed here many times. The property has its own spa. The administration allows visitors to stay in the rooms with pets.
   
   Address: Via Della Torretta, 1, 51016 Montecatini Terme, Italy.
2. Montecatini Palace- one of the oldest, built over 100 years ago. Near it there is a picturesque park, and on the territory there is a SPA complex.
   Address: Via Giacomo Puccini 20, 51016 Montecatini Terme, Italy.
3. Hotel Tamerici & Principe located in the heart of the resort town of Monte Catinho. There is an outdoor swimming pool on site. It offers beauty and rejuvenation procedures. The restaurant serves Italian and local Tuscan cuisine.
   Address: Viale 4 Novembre, 4, 51016 Montecatini Terme, Italy.
4. Ercolini & Savi is a family hotel built in Art Nouveau style. Here you can relax alone or with children. Quiet environment, at a distance of half a kilometer are the railway station and the city baths.
   Address: Via San Martino 18, 51016 Montecatini Terme, Italy.
5. Reale Hotel- a budget option for a settlement near the best spas. It is located just half a kilometer from the railway station - it is quite possible to walk. This is one of the popular hotels for those looking for a budget-friendly wellness option in Italy. The hotel's restaurant serves vegan options.
   Address: Via Palestro 7, 51016 Montecatini Terme, Italy.

Best Resorts

On the territory of Montecatini Terme (Italy) there are many large and small resorts and spa centers.

Among the most popular:

1. « Excelsior"— medical and cosmetology center with saunas, massage rooms and swimming pools. After a course of treatment, the skin condition improves, weight decreases, and inflammatory processes disappear.
2. "Groccio Institute"- a resort with hot thermal waters, which is open all year round. Here you can undergo rehabilitation after injuries and operations.
3. "Tettuccio"– the oldest and most popular baths, where you can undergo hydrotherapy and massage, as well as mud therapy and body wraps based on healing mud and algae.
4. Terme Redi- a center where inhalation treatment of respiratory diseases is carried out. There are also swimming pools and physiotherapy rooms on the territory.
5. Terme Regina– SPA complex, where international events, conferences and seminars are often held.

Also in Montecatini Terme there are many small clinics where you can consult a doctor and get a qualified appointment.

What is being treated here?

Among the main areas of treatment in the resorts of Montecatini Terme:

• Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and digestive disorders.
• Respiratory diseases (from frequent colds and sinusitis to asthma).
• Kidney disorders.
• Endocrine pathologies, metabolic disorders.
• Diseases of the musculoskeletal system, consequences of injuries.

Before starting treatment, you need to consult a doctor and undergo the necessary examination. This will allow you to choose the most effective recovery scheme.

Basic Treatments

The waters of local hot springs are taken orally, and are also used for various procedures.

In the resorts and clinics of Montecatini Terme, the following are used:

• Water intake, or hydropinic treatment. 4 types of mineral waters (Rinfresco, Leopoldina, Regina, Tettuccio) are taken orally at different times depending on the underlying disease.
• Inhalations of 2 types - dry and wet. They are carried out in Redi baths, prescribed by a course of 10-12 procedures for diseases of the respiratory system.
• Mud treatment is used for diseases of the joints, during rehabilitation after injuries. Helps relieve pain, inflammation, improve blood circulation. The maximum effect is achieved with the simultaneous appointment of therapeutic mineral baths.
• Balneotherapy, or hydrotherapy - baths, douches, showers. They help cleanse the body of toxins, improve skin condition, and help with diseases of the musculoskeletal system.
• Therapeutic gymnastics in the hall or pool.
• Physiotherapy.

How much does spa treatment cost?

In Montecatini Terme you can find treatment options of different prices. The most economical option is to stay in a small hotel and sign up for procedures at the nearest hospital.

The initial consultation with a doctor will cost approximately 60 €. Repeated appointments during the course of treatment are free.

Prices for basic procedures:

You can also purchase a package of services, starting from the main procedure:

Useful information

Going to the Montecatini Terme resort, you will have to apply for a visa. A one-time, as well as a one-year, cost the same - 35 €. For the first visit to Italy, a one-time visa is issued, with a second visit, you can apply for a visa for a year.

The prescribed mineral waters should be taken clearly according to the schedule, and after taking it, it is better to walk for about 20 minutes so that the water is better absorbed.

On the territory of the city you will not need transport: it is small, the length at the widest point is no more than 1.5 km.

24,392 viewed

Montecatini Terme is a city in the east of the Lucca plain in the Tuscany region of Italy, famous for its sanatoriums, medical centers, and hydropathic baths. On the map of Italy, the closest to this city are Pistoia (Pistoia) and Lucca, a little further towards the sea - (Pisa) and Viareggio, and deep into the mainland - (Firenze). Not far from Montecatini Terme is the port city (Livorno).

Archaeological research proves that nomadic tribes of hunters lived here in prehistoric times. In antiquity, springs of healing water were discovered at the foot of a hill in the plain of Lucca.

Later, in the 15th century, the local mineral waters were described by the physician Ugolino da Montecatini. In the XIV century, bloody battles took place on the territory of the city and around it between the rulers who claimed dominance in Tuscany. The victory was won by the Florentines, who in 1530 founded the first baths near the hill of Montecatini, in which it was possible to take mineral baths. These were the Medici Baths (Bagni Mediceo).

Soon, in 1554, after this, a fierce civil war broke out again - between supporters of two Florentine families - the Medici (Medici) and Strozzi (Strozzi).

During the hostilities, the city was plundered, and (Cosimo I de Medici), upset by the defeat, ordered the destruction of the city to the ground, retaining only a few residential buildings, nunneries, the city hall, which did not surrender to the enemies.
The city remains forgotten for a long time.

In the 18th century, interest in Montecatini awakened again. The Grand Duke of Tuscany Leopold (Leopoldo II d'Asburgo-Lorena) orders to drain the local swamps, diverting water from them, and build new baths near the hot springs:

1. Bagno Regina (Bagno Regina);
2. Terme Leopoldine;
3. Tettuccio.

The active development of tourism in the city, called Montecatini Terme, took place at the beginning of the 20th century. Public institutions traditional for the resort town appear: hotels, theaters, restaurants and cafes, gambling houses.

Montecatini is becoming a fashionable resort, Italian celebrities come here - composer (Giuseppe Verdi), writer Luigi Pirandello, composer Ruggero Leoncavallo and others, a large number of tourists from Russia. The city becomes a place of lively discussions about politics, business and art.

Treatment

The resort town is located about 8 sources of mineral water, which is formed at a great depth - 60-80 meters. Moving to the surface of the earth, they go through several stages of purification in layers of clay, limestone, jasper, buta and other rocks.

There are only 4 springs on the territory of the resort:

1. Leopoldina (Leopoldina)- "hard" waters with a high concentration of active substances, effective in the treatment of constipation and the normalization of the gastrointestinal tract;
2. Regina- "medium" waters, normalizing the process of excretion of bile from the liver tissues into the intestines;
3. Tettuccio (Tettuccio)- "soft" waters that help cleanse the liver and normalize metabolic processes in the body, reduce the amount of cholesterol in the blood, used in the treatment of gastritis with reduced secretion and other digestive disorders;
4. Rinfresco (Rinfresco)- "very soft" waters with a minimum content of medicinal substances, which have diuretic properties, remove toxic substances from the body and restore the water-salt balance after physical education and sports.

Local water has a salty taste and belongs to the hydrochloric-sulfate-alkaline group, includes the following components: chlorides and sulfates of sodium and magnesium, salts of lithium, potassium, calcium, silicon, iodine, sulfur, phosphates, etc.

Due to the properties of healing waters, the activity of various body systems is normalized:

• Digestive;
• respiratory;
• Musculoskeletal;
• Endocrine, etc.

The resort uses various methods of balneological treatment:

• Intake of mineral water inside (all 4 types of water are used);
• Mud therapy (Leopoldinai Rinfresco);
• Baths with mineral water (Leopoldina Rinfresco);
• Inhalations (Leopoldina), etc.

Large balneological centers of the city are popular.

" " (Grocco) invites you to visit the mineral water pool, outdoor solarium, therapeutic physical training, massage sessions, physiotherapeutic procedures based on healing water, etc.;

"Bath Excelsior" (Excelsior)- a medical and cosmetology center with an indoor pool, saunas, equipped with the latest science, SPA-procedure rooms; medicinal water is taken here from October to early April.

The most popular is a medical center founded in the 18th century with mineral water outlets equipped for drinking, inviting you to take courses in mud therapy, balneotherapy, massage sessions. A balneologist conducts a reception in the center, from April to October, visitors drink mineral water in the morning and in the evening before meals: in the morning - any water, in the evening - only Rinfresco.

• Official website of the term: www.termemontecatini.it.

Attractions

The city is divided into two sectors - ancient and modern. The historic center is located in the Montecatini Alto area, spread out on a picturesque hill. A funicular was built in 1898 to reach the old town. In the old part there are monuments of history and culture:

• Church of Carmine (Chiesa del Carmine) XIV century;
• The current church of St. Peter (Chiesa di San Pietro) of the XI century;
• Medieval fortress of the XIII century (Rocca di Castello Vecchio);
• Buildings of the beginning of the 20th century in the Art Nouveau style, etc.

The Romanesque church of del Carmine, dedicated to Saints Jacopo (Jacopo) and Filippo (Filippo), is well preserved to this day. It was built by representatives of the monastic order of the Carmelites in 1296. The church has a simple and austere facade, a gable roof. Present in the appearance of the church and features of the Baroque, introduced during the restructuring in 1764. The treasure of the church is a painting from 1595 depicting the Martyrdom of Saint Sebastian (Martirio di S. Sebastiano) against the backdrop of the city of Montecatini and its environs.

St. Peter's Church is outwardly distinguished by a majestic bell tower, similar to the tower of a medieval castle. It was rebuilt in the 20th century as a building for an art school, but the works of the great masters of past eras have been preserved in it:

• "The Ascension of Christ" by Santi di Tito (Santidi Tito);
• The Martyrdom of Saint Barbara by Jacopo Ligozzi;
• Assumption of the Virgin by Carlo Maratta.

The entire old town is located within the walls of the ancient castle, rising above the valley of Valdinievole (Valdinovole). You can take the funicular up to the castle grounds.

Hotels

The resort offers guests a choice of 220 hotels of different levels of comfort and price. We have selected for you the best hotels according to the reviews of tourists.

5 stars

– a hotel with an amazing view of the city, built in 1910, offering a high level of comfort:

• Rooms with all amenities and VIP services;
• Outdoor and indoor pools;
• Fitness Centre;
• SPA-salon, Turkish baths;
• Open veranda with a bar;
• Restaurant with Tuscan cuisine, etc.

- a well-known VIP hotel, where the first persons of states, movie and music stars stay. It is distinguished by luxury in interior design, a vast park, and its own wellness center.

4 stars

is a hotel that offers to improve health in its own medical and cosmetology center. Baths, massages, algae wraps, gymnastics will help you fully relax and improve your health.

The hotel is located at a distance of 200 meters from the springs and provides guests with comfort and convenience:

• Rooms and other rooms are decorated with paintings, crystal and bronze items;
• Piano music evenings are held in the hotel lobby;
• Has a spacious terrace and swimming pool;
• The hotel is surrounded by a shady garden, etc.

– superior comfort hotel, located in a 19th century building, equipped in accordance with modern requirements:

• Two restaurants with luxurious cuisine for different tastes;
• Spacious rooms with floor carpeting and appliances;
• Good soundproofing etc.

3 stars

– a hotel within a 2-minute walk from the springs, which has many advantages:

• Comfortable accommodation in rooms with necessary household appliances, free cosmetics;
• Exquisite Tuscan cuisine;
• Possibility to order a vegetarian and gluten-free menu;
• Possibility of accommodation with pets, etc.

– a hotel in the city center, within walking distance from SPA centers and hydropathic centers, equipped for non-smokers, with spacious bright rooms with terraces or balconies.

Apartments and B&B

Casa Jessica

Casa Jessica - apartments in a high-rise building on the 1st floor with lovely shady courtyards, with a kitchen equipped with all necessary appliances, with a dining area on the terrace, with heating in the cold season.

is a detached two-storey holiday home surrounded by a garden, 100 meters from the thermal springs.

How to get there

The closest major city to Montecantini Terme is Florence.

By train

From Florence by train to Montecatini Terme-Monsummano station can be reached from the central station Firenze Santa Maria Novella. The train runs several times an hour, the ticket costs 5.5 euros.

↘️🇮🇹 USEFUL ARTICLES AND SITES 🇮🇹↙️ SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS