Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TOP SIGHT
SZÉCHENYI BATHS
The gigantic 'wedding cake' of a building in City Park dates from just before
the outbreak of WWI and houses the Széchenyi Baths (Széchenyi Gyógy-
fürdő), whose hot-water spring was discovered while a well was being drilled
in the late 19th century. The water here is the hottest in the city, reaching the
surface at a scalding 76°C. It also stands out for its immensity (it is the
largest medicinal bath extant in Europe and has 15 indoor pools and three
outdoor); the bright, clean atmosphere; and the high temperatures of the wa-
ter (up to 38°C), which really are what the wall plaques say they are.
It's open to both men and women at all times in mixed areas, so bathing suits (available
for hire at 1100Ft) must be worn. Use of the three outdoor thermal pools at the Széchenyi is
included in the general admission fee. Because the pools contain hot mineral water they're
open all year, and it's quite a sight to watch men and women playing chess on floating
boards while snow dusts the treetops in City Park. The water, high in calcium, magnesium
and hydrogen carbonate, is good for pains in the joints, arthritis, blood circulation and disor-
ders of the nervous system. The whirlpool and Jacuzzi jets in the outdoor pool are also
