Salsomaggiore Terme
Welcome to Salsomaggiore Terme
Hello everyone! Are you ready to discover the wonders of Salsomaggiore Terme? This small town located in the province of Parma, Emilia-Romagna, is famous for its salt-bromine-iodine thermal waters, with healing properties already known to the ancient Romans and Celts. But there are also many other monuments and places of interest to discover, such as our Romanesque churches.
The history of the city
The history of Salsomaggiore Terme is ancient and fascinating. As early as the late 1200s, there was a well dug by hand, from which saltwater was brought to the surface using buckets and a large wheel operated first by two horses, then by five convicts. This well, called the "wheel well," remained in operation until 1897 when it was finally closed. Subsequently, thanks to the efforts of Luigi Corazza, the city began to develop as a spa town and tourist destination. Corazza built the first freshwater aqueduct, called "King of the Rivulets," and in 1888 he also built the steam tram to Borgo San Donnino, which contributed to the tourism boom in the area.
Honours
We are very proud to be among the cities decorated with the military valor medal for the liberation war. Salsomaggiore Terme was awarded the bronze medal for military valor for the sacrifices of its populations and its activity in the partisan struggle during World War II. This reminds us of the importance of resistance and the defense of our freedom.
Monuments and places of interest
If you like Romanesque churches, Salsomaggiore Terme is the right place for you! The Pieve di San Giovanni Battista is a beautiful example of a Romanesque church, probably built in the twelfth century and then transformed in the eighteenth century with the addition of Baroque decorations. In 1954, it was completely restored to its original form and inside, you can admire traces of ancient medieval and Renaissance frescoes. In particular, do not miss the Santa Lucia of 1517.
The Pieve di San Nicomede is also an unmissable place of interest. This ancient church was built in 880 to house the relics of San Nicomede and was expanded and modified in Romanesque style in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. In 1909, the neo-Gothic façade with a porch was raised, while the original crypt of the ninth century still preserves the ancient marble well, whose waters were already considered miraculous in ancient times. What a wonder!
Furthermore, do not miss the beauty of the hills of the Parma Apennines, where our town is located. Here you can admire breathtaking views and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Conclusion
We are happy to have accompanied you on a discovery of Salsomaggiore Terme, a pearl of Emilia-Romagna. Our thermal waters, Romanesque churches, and surrounding hills are waiting for you for a regenerating and relaxing holiday. Come and visit us, you are welcome!
