|

Why
Marienbad
is special
From the early 1800s
through the late 1920s, Marienbad was one of the world's most exclusive thermal
spring spas. It attracted royalty and aristocrats plus titans of
music and literature. Although Marienbad gradually fell into disrepair in the
ensuing years, many of its pastel-hued Baroque buildings have been restored in
the last couple of decades.

Marienbad
tips & insights

Several dozen mineral
springs dot the area. They are warmed by subterranean volcanic activity.

The local mineral spring waters help cure a long list of
diseases, say the spa operators.

Several dozen spa
treatments are available, including thermal, mud, and carbon dioxide gas baths.

Visitors come to the main colonnade
(see photo) to drink the mineral water out of a small, spouted porcelain cup
used exclusively for that liquid.

Marienbad sits in a
pleasant valley surrounded on three sides by pine forested hills.

Some charming old fashioned
spa hotels are still around (Nove Lazne is the most famous).

The acclaimed 1961 French
movie "Last Year in Marienbad" helped spread the town's fame around the world.

Unrequited love: Two
centuries ago the world renowned German writer Goethe (then 72) unsuccessfully
courted a teenage baroness in Marienbad.

Spring through Fall is the
best visiting time.

Although Marianske Lazne is
its Czech name, this spa town is better known globally by its German name, Marienbad.

Nearest major city
Marienbad is 150 kilometers (90 miles) west of Prague,
the capital of the Czech Republic. Train service exists.

Pronunciation guide
Marienbad: mehr'-ee-ahn'-bahd







 











|