In the heart of Tuscan Romagna, the Spa of Castrocaro represents a jewel combining centuries-old tradition, nature and state-of-the-art technology. Its mineral waters, known since Roman times, were rediscovered for therapeutic purposes in the first half of the 19th century. The credit for this goes to dr. Corrado Taddei De Gravina, a local doctor who first used the sulphurous springs for curative purposes in 1838, in an episode that marked the beginning of modern thermalism in the area.
Spa Renaissance
In 1844, the first thermal baths were built, while studies on the chemical-physical properties of the waters intensified in the 19th century. Collaborations with the Universities of Pisa, Bologna, Ferrara and the Institute of Geosciences in Pisa led to the discovery of new sulphur wells and the production of the famous 'velvet' mud, with its unique creaminess.
In 1887, the first clearly visible structures were erected; then, in 1924, the park was enriched with the impressive Temple of Watersenhanced by three Pompeian-style fountains. The year 1938 saw the construction of the 'Stabilimento Termale Demaniale', comprising the majestic Grand Hotel and the elegant Party Pavilion.
From public management to the GVM revolution
Until 1999, the spa remained under public management. In 2003 they became part of the GVM Care & Researchan Italian healthcare giant founded in 1973 and active today in various fields, from cardiac surgery to biomedicine. Thanks to huge investments-over 67 million euro-GVM has transformed the complex, integrating specialist medicine, spa services and state-of-the-art technology.
In 2025, the awarding of honorary citizenship to President Ettore Sansavini symbolically sanctioned the deep bond between GVM and the territory.
Thermal cures: a broad and specialised proposal
Le waters of the Terme di Castrocaro have unique characteristics: salso-bromo-iodine and sulphurous, rich in hydrogen sulphide, chlorides, magnesium and other minerals. Three famous springs-Casetta, Salsubia and Beatrice-are used for naturally maturing mud baths.
The therapeutic offer is broad and modern:
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Mud and balneotherapyideal for arthrosis, vasculopathies and rheumatic diseases
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Inhalation and hydropinic cureseffective on respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases
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Cycle of rhinogenic deafnesswith endotympanic and inhalation insufflations to counter middle ear disorders
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Treatment of peripheral vasculopathiesthrough whirlpools and spa therapy
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Dermatological treatmentsfor acne, eczema and skin diseasesÂ
Integrated medicine and rehabilitation
The thermal baths today complement thermalism with specialised medicine and diagnostics. The Outpatient clinic accredited by the SSN offers CT, MRI, ultrasound, echocolordoppler and other examinations. The centre of medical-thermal rehabilitation offers global physiotherapy programmes, hydrokinesiotherapy in thermal pools of varying depths, physical technologies (Tecar therapy, laser, shock waves), postural rehabilitation and kinesiotherapy.
Dedicated treatments also address trauma sequelae, venous insufficiency, neuropathies, neurological disorders and joint motor disorders.
SPA and wellness: the 'Magical Waters
In addition to thermal medicine, the thermal baths offer the SPA Magical Watersa multi-sensory space with indoor and outdoor pools, a salt pool with music therapy, hammam, Turkish bath, Finnish sauna and experience showers. An ideal route for those seeking complete relaxation, set in an 8-hectare botanical park with trails, mazes, miniature golf and temples.
An integrated model: thermalism, technology and territory
GVM management has performed a multidimensional enhancement: long life formula, preventive medicine, diagnostic centres, research and training, all linked by a single thread: improving the quality of life. Technological support, hotel infrastructure and health integration make Castrocaro a European model of modern thermalism.
Conclusion
Le Spa of Castrocaro represent a unicum in Italy: historical waters, natural mud, monumental architecture, clinical technologies and wellness environments come together in a complete offer, capable of combining body care, prevention, relaxation and discovery of the territory. An experience that combines tradition and innovation, in a landscape of extraordinary charm.
