The legend of Karlovy Vary’s springs begins with Emperor Charles IV in the 14th century. It is said that while hunting, the emperor’s injured dog stumbled upon a bubbling spring. Miraculously, the animal’s wounds began to heal after contact with the water. Inspired by this discovery, Charles IV founded a settlement around the spring, giving the town its name—“Charles’ Bath.”
By the 16th century, the town’s fame as a spa destination had spread far and wide. Nobles and commoners alike traveled to Karlovy Vary, drawn by tales of the water’s ability to cure ailments such as arthritis, digestive issues, and skin conditions. Physicians of the era even developed specific drinking regimens to optimize the health benefits of the mineral water.
Here, I find not just healing for my body but inspiration for my soul.
Karlovy Vary’s springs are not just a cultural treasure but a scientific marvel. There are 13 main springs and over 300 smaller ones, each varying in temperature and mineral composition. The most famous is the Vřídlo (Geyser), which shoots water up to 12 meters high and reaches a temperature of 73°C.
The water is rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonates, which are known to aid digestion, improve metabolism, and support joint health. Today, modern spa treatments integrate these waters into baths, inhalation therapies, and even cosmetic applications. Visitors can also sip the water from traditional porcelain spa cups, a practice that has become a symbol of Karlovy Vary’s wellness tradition.
Modern research continues to validate the therapeutic claims, bridging the gap between folklore and medicine. Whether for relaxation, rehabilitation, or simply a unique cultural experience, the healing waters of Karlovy Vary remain an essential part of the town’s identity.
Publish date: January 03, 2025
Modern research continues to validate the therapeutic claims, bridging the gap between folklore and medicine. Whether for relaxation, rehabilitation, or simply a unique cultural experience, the healing waters of Karlovy Vary remain an essential part of the town’s identity.