Welcome to a completely new place for me and maybe for you too, so this is a bit exciting. The main reason why we ended up in Montecantini Tera was that we were going to Andrea Bocelli's 30th anniversary concert and got a tip since there were no available rooms in Lucca. So now we'll see what it has to offer.
I'll start with a bit of history.
Montecatini Terme is a famous spa town in Tuscany, Italy, known for its thermal baths. The town's history goes back to Roman times, but it was in the 18th and 19th centuries that the place really began to develop as a spa town. It received a significant boost when Grand Duke Leopold of Tuscany promoted the development of the thermal baths at the end of the 18th century. In the 19th century, the city became a popular destination for Europe's elite, and many elegant buildings and hotels were built to accommodate the visitors.
Who would have thought this before I read up, interesting.
Apart from tourism, Montecatini Terme lives off a number of other industries. Agriculture plays an important role, especially the production of olive oil and wine, which is typical of the Tuscany region. There is also some industry in the area, including the production of textiles and machinery. Montecatini Terme also acts as a trading center for the surrounding agricultural area, with markets and trade forming part of the local economy.
Let's immediately take the "must see" and tips for Montecatini
When you visit Montecatini Terme, there are some places that are a "must-see", but also several that are important to have a holistic experience.
These places offer a good mix of history, culture, nature and relaxation, making your visit to Montecatini Terme complete:
Terme Tettuccio:
This is the most famous thermal bath in Montecatini Terme. The building itself is an architectural gem, even today, with beautiful mosaics, columns and fountains. Here you can sample the healing waters that have attracted visitors for centuries. Here is an illustration from Roman times where you can dream back and experience a bygone era. Read more below.
Montecatini Alto:
Take the cable car up to the old town of Montecatini Alto, which sits on a hill with fantastic views of the area. The town has a charming medieval atmosphere with narrow streets, old churches and cozy restaurants.
Parco delle Terme:
This large park is perfect for a leisurely stroll. It contains several thermal baths, fountains and beautiful green areas. The park gives a feeling of calm and well-being in the middle of the city. This is a good option, but I haven't been there.
Viale Value:
This main street is surrounded by elegant buildings and shops. It is a great place for shopping, to enjoy a coffee in one of the many cafes, or just to stroll and enjoy the atmosphere. Great place in the afternoon and evening.
Grotto Maona:
A natural cave located just outside the city. If you are interested in the cave's geological formations and history, guides are the best tip.
Palazzo dei Congressi : (only if you have time to spare)
This is a conference center that often houses art exhibitions, concerts and cultural events. The building itself is worth a visit for its architecture.
My recommendations in Montecatini Terme these two, then it's Lucca next in a few hours.
Terme Tettuccio:
This was a surprise, both visually and historically.
When visiting Montecatini Terme, Terme Tettuccio is an experience not to be missed. This historic thermal bath is known for its healing springs and beautiful architecture. Entering Terme Tettuccio brings a sense of calm and well-being, with its elegant columns, elaborate mosaics and trickling fountains. Here you can enjoy the beneficial effect of the thermal baths in an atmosphere that combines relaxation and history. Terme Tettuccio offers a variety of treatments based on the mineral-rich waters, which are said to be beneficial for digestion, the liver and metabolism.
Terme Tettuccio is more than just a place for health; it is a piece of living history. People have sought relief and rest here for centuries.
Spending time in Terme Tettuccio offers a unique opportunity to experience the same relaxing atmosphere that has attracted visitors for generations. This is a place where you can retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and let your body and soul find new energy in the warm, mineral-rich springs.
"I tested the water both by smell and taste. There are several different varieties, from the very salty to only lukewarm water".
The thermal waters of Montecatini are also known for their therapeutic products. The mineral waters are bottled and used in a number of health-promoting products, including drinking water that is said to have cleansing effects on the body. In addition, mineral-containing creams and ointments are produced which are popular for their skin care properties. These products are sought after for their natural health benefits and give visitors the opportunity to take some of Montecatini's healing power home with them.
Within Terme Tettuccio you will also find a pleasant café where you can enjoy a relaxing break with a cup of coffee or a light meal. The cafe is a great place to reflect on the visit and digest the many impressions. The shops in the area sell a selection of the local health products, including the mineral-rich creams and waters, as well as souvenirs reminiscent of this unique place.
There is also an on-site art gallery that displays local artwork and temporary exhibitions, adding a cultural dimension to the visit. Terme Tettuccio is truly an oasis of well-being, where tradition and modern health care meet in harmonious interaction. The fact that Sophia Loren has also used products from this place probably also gives it a little boost. The fact that it has also made it onto UNESCO's list elevates it to the top of the list for a visit.
Terme Tettuccio is centrally located in Montecatini Terme, along Viale Verdi. This location makes it easily accessible to both visitors and locals, and the beautiful park that surrounds the complex gives an added sense of calm and nature in the middle of the city. This makes Terme Tettuccio an ideal place for a relaxing day in the heart of Montecatini Terme, map .
Then we will go to Montecatini Alto, which is located directly above Terme Tettuccio up on a hill. This is a little gem with a rich history and charming atmosphere.
This medieval town gives you the feeling of traveling back in time, with its narrow streets, historic buildings and spectacular views of the Tuscan countryside. NB! Don't drive into the city, then you "won't" get out again!
The history of Montecatini Alto dates back to Roman times, but it was during the Middle Ages that the town really flourished. The fortress walls and towers that surround the city testify to its strategic importance and the need for protection against invasions. The city was also an important stopping point for pilgrims on their way to Rome.
When visiting Montecatini Alto, there are several things you should not miss. Piazza Giuseppe Giusti is the city's central square, surrounded by cozy cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy local delicacies.
Torre dell'Orologio, the historic clock tower, offers a great view of the area. The old church Chiesa di San Pietro is also worth a visit, with its beautiful frescoes and quiet atmosphere. The first thing that meets you, if you arrive by car, are narrow streets that open into the beautiful square, Piazza Giuseppe Giusti. Then just wander around and enjoy the story, which is described both above and below here.
The cable car that connects Montecatini Terme with Montecatini Alto is an experience in itself. It offers a fantastic view of the city and the surrounding countryside. Once at the top, you can stroll through the picturesque streets, visit small shops selling local handicrafts, and enjoy a meal overlooking the beautiful valley below.
Montecatini Alto is not only a place for history lovers, but also for those seeking a quiet and authentic Tuscan experience. It is a perfect place for a day trip, where you can combine culture, history and natural beauty in a harmonious whole.
Montecatini Alto and archaeological research based on the excavations in the 90s - Click on the link and see about the excavations
I hope this gives you good ideas for your next trip.
Montecantini Tera and Florence are 1h16min from Lajatico where Andra's concert is Teatro de Silencio and only 54 min from Pisa so about the same distance. An alternative is the wonderful Voterra only 27 minutes away. (will write about Volterra, a great city from the 12th century, in a separate section later)
If you want to read about Como, this is the link -here comes Milan
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