From 7 to 9 May 2025, the European Historic Thermal Towns Association (EHTTA) gathered its members, observers, and partners in the iconic spa town of Băile Herculane, Romania, for its Spring General Assembly. Set against the backdrop of one of Europe’s oldest spa destinations, the event was a powerful demonstration of EHTTA’s mission to promote cooperation, protect thermal heritage, and strengthen its growing network across Europe.
Organised in close collaboration with Mayor Gheorghe Orza and the Municipality of Băile Herculane, the event offered delegates from 11 countries a rich programme of institutional meetings, site visits, and cultural discovery. From Roman origins to Austro-Hungarian grandeur and socialist-era influences, the town’s layered history served as a powerful reminder of the resilience and cultural value of Europe’s thermal towns.
The General Assembly opened with reflections by EHTTA President Riccardo Mortandello, who highlighted the Association’s growing visibility and the importance of political and civic cooperation in preserving thermal heritage. Several new observers were welcomed, including the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Hisarya (Bulgaria) and representatives of other Romanian spa towns, further underlining the expanding reach and relevance of the network.
A highlight of the Assembly was the Café of Europe event held on Europe Day (9 May), under the theme “Restoring Thermal Heritage”. Moderated by Hans Hornyik, Chair of EHTTA’s Scientific Committee, the session brought together experts from the public sector, cultural heritage, and civil society.
Speakers included: Adrian Miulescu (National Institute of Medical Recovery, Physiotherapy and Balneology), Oana Zaharia (National Institute of Patrimony), Alina Chiciudean (ARCHÉ, Europa Nostra, Blue Shield Romania), who addressed the importance of youth leadership and cross-sectoral cooperation in heritage preservation.
President Mortandello described Europe’s thermal towns as “crossroads of cultures, places of dialogue and exchange,” emphasising that “preserving this legacy means preserving a deeply European way of life, where beauty, well-being, and culture converge.”
Embracing the joyful side of thermal life, the Assembly also hosted the Bathrobe Addicts Parade, a signature event of the EHTTA network that promotes accessibility, wellness, and cultural unity. Led by Éric Brut, General Director of La Route des Villes d’Eaux du Massif Central, the parade took place during Băile Herculane’s Festival of Minorities, drawing smiles from participants and onlookers alike.
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