ALBERGO TERME P [IT]

Exploration #121 Albergo terme P. We are in Tuscany, in an area rich in thermal springs. The present buildings, now in ruins, were built at the beginning of the 20th century on a site where there were already very ancient baths, well known since the Middle Ages. Some testimonies state that they were owned by the Republic of Florence and visited by Lorenzo De Medici himself, known as “Il Magnifico”.
The thermal waters, which still flow beneath the abandoned buildings, are classified as medium-mineral, sulphurous-bicarbonate-alkaline-earthy. With a temperature of about 41 degrees Celsius, they are said to be indicated for the treatment of rheumatic and skin diseases.

The former Albergo Terme included several rooms for overnight accommodation, a large restaurant and several small rooms used as a spa. It had its moment of glory at the beginning of the 20th century when it was frequented by a large number of guests from all over Italy. Following disputes with the owners due to the urgency of renovation and modernisation works, it closed in 2002. Since then, without any maintenance and completely abandoned, mould and moisture, mainly caused by the still active thermal springs and severe damage to the roof, have been transforming the interior of the buildings. The walls are painted in the colours of the mould and the various layers of plaster underneath, while what remains of the furniture is slowly crumbling to the floor. It was a very interesting exploration of this spa, even if it was difficult due to the high temperatures in the thermal rooms, which made it difficult to take pictures. It is a pity that these waters, which are still available, are not exploited in a different way.