Széchenyi Thermal Baths

The Széchenyi thermal complex, located in the heart of Városliget Park in Budapest, is one of the largest and most fascinating thermal establishments in Europe. Inaugurated in 1913, this complex is an architectural gem and a symbol of the spa culture that characterizes the Hungarian capital. The complex is named in honor of István Széchenyi, one of the most influential figures in Hungarian history, known as “the greatest Hungarian” for his contribution to the country’s economic and cultural development. The history of the Széchenyi baths begins with the discovery of mineral-rich thermal springs in the Városliget district at the end of the 19th century. These springs were exploited to create a thermal complex that would meet the growing health and wellness needs of the population of Budapest. The project was entrusted to the architect Győző Czigler, who designed a building in neo-Baroque style with neorenaissance influences. The result was a majestic complex, characterized by elegant facades, imposing domes, and refined decorative details. The construction of the Széchenyi baths was a remarkably complex engineering feat. Drilling to find the thermal water began in 1868 and reached a depth of 970 meters, one of the deepest drillings of the time. The water, rich in calcium, magnesium, and hydrogen carbonate, flows at a temperature of about 74°C and is renowned for its healing properties. This water feeds the numerous indoor and outdoor pools of the complex, offering visitors a unique and beneficial bathing experience. The Széchenyi baths include a total of 21 pools, including indoor and outdoor pools, hydrotherapy pools, saunas, and Turkish baths. The outdoor pools are particularly famous and attract visitors throughout the year, thanks to the constant temperature of the water that allows swimming even in the winter months. The image of the outdoor pools shrouded in steam on a cold winter day is one of the most iconic postcards of Budapest. In addition to the pools, the complex offers a wide range of wellness services, including therapeutic massages, mud treatments, aromatherapy, and beauty treatments. These services are designed to offer visitors a complete relaxation and regeneration experience, taking advantage of the beneficial properties of the thermal waters. The Széchenyi baths have played an important role in the social and cultural life of Budapest. During the communist period, the baths were frequented by people of all social classes, becoming a place of meeting and socializing. Today, the baths are a meeting point for the local community, who go there not only to relax but also to participate in chess games in the outdoor pools, an activity that has become a true tradition. An interesting anecdote concerns the visit of the legendary swimmer Johnny Weissmuller, known for playing Tarzan in the films of the ’30s and ’40s. Weissmuller, who was of Hungarian origin, visited the Széchenyi baths in the ’20s and was so impressed by the beauty of the place that he decided to train in the pools of the complex.