History of Thermal Water in Podhajska
From accidental discovery in 1973 to modern wellness center.
The history of Podhajska thermal spa is a fascinating story of accidental discovery, perseverance of local people, and transformation of a small village into a significant wellness destination.
🔬 1973: Accidental Discovery
The history begins in 1973, when oil drilling workers unexpectedly discovered thermal water during geological exploration. They were originally looking for oil and natural gas, but instead struck hot mineral water at a depth of 1900 meters below the surface.
Water temperature at source: 80°C
Borehole depth: 1900 meters
Flow rate: 60 liters per second
💧 Unique Water Composition
Chemical analyses revealed that the thermal water contains an exceptional amount of minerals:
- Sodium chloride: Main component, similar to the Dead Sea
- Iodine: Helps with skin conditions
- Bromine: Calming effects
- Sulfur: Beneficial for joints and muscles
- Fluorine: Strengthens bones and teeth
Total mineralization reaches 32 g/l, ranking it among the saltiest waters in Central Europe.
🏗️ 1974: Volunteer Construction
After discovering the thermal water, local residents realized its enormous potential. In 1974, they decided to take an unusual step - to build a pool by themselves.
The volunteer construction lasted a whole year. Hundreds of volunteers from the village and surrounding areas participated. The first concrete pool measured 25 × 15 meters with a depth of 1.5 meters.
💡 FUN FACT
During the construction of the first pool, people worked for free in their spare time. Everyone wanted to contribute to the development of the village. This collective effort remains an example of community engagement to this day.
🌊 1975: First Opening
In June 1975, the spa officially opened to the public. More than 3000 visitors came on the first day! Local authorities were surprised by the enormous interest.
Admission in 1975: 5 crowns (adult), 3 crowns (child)
📈 1980-2000: Gradual Development
In the following decades, the spa gradually grew:
- 1982: Construction of children's pool
- 1985: Swimming pool added
- 1990: First changing rooms and facilities built
- 1995: Opening of restaurant and snack bar
- 1998: Installation of water slide
💎 2005: Wellness Aquamarin
The year 2005 marked a breakthrough - the opening of the modern Aquamarin wellness center. An investment of 8 million euros brought:
- 10 types of saunas and steam rooms
- Whirlpools
- Relaxation zones
- Massage parlors
- Botanical garden
🏆 Present Day
Today, Podhajska is one of the most visited thermal spas in Slovakia:
- Visitors: More than 500,000 visitors annually
- Area: 38 hectares
- Capacity: 8000 visitors daily
- Pools: 13 pools with total area of 4000 m²
- Water temperature: 26-38°C in various pools
🌍 International Recognition
Podhajska has received several awards:
- 2010: Best Wellness Center in Slovakia (Forbes Magazine)
- 2015: European Wellness Standards Quality Certificate
- 2020: Award for Ecological Operations
📊 Economic Significance
The spa fundamentally changed life in the village:
- Created more than 300 jobs
- Attracted dozens of hotels and guesthouses
- Supported development of restaurants and shops
- Increased property values in the area
🔮 Future
Development plans for the spa include:
- ✓ Expansion of wellness center
- ✓ Construction of new aquapark with modern attractions
- ✓ Ecological energy sources (solar panels, heat pumps)
- ✓ Digitalization of services (online reservations, mobile app)
📅 Timeline of Key Events
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