ABSTRACT
The town of Spa is one of the oldest and most famous thermal resorts in the world. It is situated in French-speaking Belgium (Walloon region) on the fringes of the Ardennes. It was already known and appreciated by the Romans, it received famous guests such as Peter the Great, and it became so internationally renowned that in the 16th century the English language started to use the word ‘ spa ’ to refer to other thermal resorts. Specifi c geological conditions helped to create this resort development, namely the mineral and curative qualities of the waters, as well as the peaceful and green surroundings which were considered particularly conducive to health improvement and enhancement. From the mid 16th century onwards, the healing effects of the spring were confi rmed (before that it was little more than a village in the woods), and this attracted numerous illustrious visitors. The fi rst private spa institute was founded in 1764 and the fi rst public one in 1820. Spa’s heyday came in the 18th century when
it was referred to as the ‘ Café of Europe ’ (Groote, 2008). ‘ Les Thermes de Spa ’ were constructed in 1868, encouraged by King Leopold II. The mineral springs were combined with entertainment, namely the Casino, as well as cafés and organized events. The architecture of the resort became distinctive, with the neo-classical building of the casino, impressive gardens, the Pouhon Pierre-le-Grand (the most important source in Spa) and its beautiful winter garden, the Galerie Léopold II and the Parc de Sept Heures.
