Aquae Calidae — Thermopolis
An ancient mineral bath with Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman layers — 14 km from the city centre.
Located in Burgas's Vetren district (known as the Burgas Mineral Baths), the Aquae Calidae tourist complex (Latin for "Hot Waters") is one of the most intriguing cultural-historical and balneological destinations in the region. It is a place where archaeology and the healing power of nature intertwine in a thousand-year-old heritage, making the site a must-visit for the city's guests.
Photo: Spiritia / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
A rich history and distinguished visitors
The healing properties of the local hot springs (with a temperature of 41°C) were already known to the ancient Thracians, who built here the revered Sanctuary of the Three Nymphs. In the 1st century the Romans constructed large-scale thermal baths, turning the settlement into an important healing centre along the Via Pontica. Over the centuries, Aquae Calidae (later known as Thermopolis) drew distinguished historical figures, among them Philip II of Macedon, the Byzantine emperor Justinian I, the Bulgarian ruler Khan Tervel and the Ottoman sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. The town flourished uninterrupted until 1206, when it was burned down by the knights of the Latin Empire.
Photo: Galileo01 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0
Archaeological discoveries
Modern archaeological excavations have revealed impressive remains from these ancient eras. Visitors can examine sections of the massive fortress walls of the ancient town, the complex hydrothermal system of the Roman baths with hot and cold pools, and medieval rooms.
A modern tourist site
Today Aquae Calidae is a modern, well-developed tourist centre. At its heart is the fully restored 16th-century bath of Suleiman the Magnificent, which now functions as an innovative museum where a spectacular 3D mapping projection brings the entire history of the complex to life before visitors' eyes. The grounds offer a beautifully landscaped park, an amphitheatre and exhibition areas. With the construction of a modern recreational spa centre, Aquae Calidae is reviving its fame as a top balneological destination.
Including this site in your itinerary guarantees a unique blend of ancient history and full relaxation.