Cooling off in the sulfuric waters of Tivoli’s springs

Tivoli is a short distance from Rome, and the Acque Albule Springs (also called Terme di Roma) is a great way to cool down in summer. You can arrive easily from Rome by car or bus.

The sulphur-rich thermal springs in Tivoli have been well known since the Ancient Roman era, and particularly at the time of Emperor Augustus. Augustus was said to have suffered rheumatism, and these mineral-rich waters relieved his pain, so he had baths constructed here.

The springs were largely forgotten following the fall of Ancient Rome, and only rediscovered in the 1500s. Since Tivoli was often a stop on the Grand Tour, many a visitor bathed in the sulphur and mineral-rich waters smelling like rotten eggs.

You can still see those remnants of those Ancient Roman baths here – although this past weekend, we spent the day at the nearby “modern” structure.

As an aside, modern in Rome is a relative term. The Acque Albule Springs structure was built in 1863, at the behest of Pope Pius IX.

Today, the waters are believed to assist with respiratory problems, bone issues, and to assist with anti-inflammation. It is also believed to improve skin.

And, since the water is a constant temperature of 23 degrees Celsius/73 Farenheit, it’s wonderfully cool to dive into those waters on a hot summer day. My son and I were big fans of those cool pools during our visit. Highly suggest a visit when you’re in Rome or Tivoli.