Great spa towns of Europe as an urban phenomenon

The Great Spa Towns of Europe, comprising 11 historic spa towns across seven European countries, represent a unique urban phenomenon characterized by their distinctive urbanism and balneological landscapes. Despite extensive documentation submitted for UNESCO World Heritage recognition—spanning over 1,500 pages—the nuanced similarities and differences in their development were scattered, making comprehensive analysis challenging. This study synthesizes these aspects, highlighting the evolutionary connections that define these towns' urban and spa landscapes. By integrating historical, social, and balneological perspectives, it offers a cohesive framework for understanding their cultural significance.

Kuča, K. (2022). Great spa towns of Europe as an urban phenomenon. Zprávy Památkové Péče, 82(2), 204–237. https://doi.org/10.56112/zpp.2022.2.07