The innovation in Portuguese spa architecture

Abstract

The physical space has always been central to the historical evolution of thermalism. The spa architecture asserted itself as a specialized branch of science, articulating plans and disciplinary programs of geology, engineering and medicine. Nineteenth-century hygienists’ assumptions were translated into constructive and architectural solutions where the design and uniqueness of form signify, in an ideal scenography, an effort created for the “art of healing”, creating an interplay that straddles between what is required by the medical prescription and the rituals of leisure suggested by the daily life of the patient or thermal costumer (aquista). Innovatively, the Portuguese thermal microcosm also had its own values, ingenious solutions and an appropriate architecture suitable to possible investments. In its spas, Portugal has and continues to have a potential source of development, which creatively will play an important role in building environments that promote health and leisure.