Castel San Pietro Terme is on the border between Emilia and Romagna and is renowned for its thermal spa, brand new 18-hole golf course and race-track.
The origin of spa treatments in Castel San Pietro dates back to 1337, although the first real spa facility was built in 1870. Even then, it was characterised by a completely medical, scientific approach.
The Terme di Castel San Pietro use both sulphurous and sodium chloride bromide and iodide waters: in recent years, the traditional spa treatments have been joined by those of the wellbeing sector and rehabilitation, while there is also a special children’s section decorated with the artwork of its young guests.
Castel San Pietro Terme is worth a visit all year round, but it is spring and summertime when the town hosts various events.
While entering Castel San Pietro Terme town center, it is impossible to ignore the imposing presence of the Cassero: symbol of the city, this ancient fortification today hosts the Municipal Theater. Once through the arch, narrow streets and portici will naturally lead visitors to the living heart of this “Città Slow”: Piazza XX Settembre. This wide and well cared for square is enlivened by markets and art installations all year round. During Christmas time, lights, decorations and nativity scenes create an evocative atmosphere.
Overlooking the square are the City Hall and Crucifix Sanctuary, which encloses an important part of history and traditions in Castel San Pietro Terme.
Moving towards Via Castelfidardo, very close to the square, and walking along it, it is possible to take a look at the remains of the ancient walls, that used to protect the town center: when at its peak, the defensive system could count on many walkways over the walls.
A small “oasis in town” is the Angels Garden: this beloved park was born to commemorate the early passing of a young girl from Castel San Pietro Terme. Today, it is the celebration of life: thanks to the great efforts of a group of volunteers, the spring bloomings are truly spectacular.
Another fascinating place is the Crypt of San Lorenzo church in Varignana: an underground crypt with three naves, enclosing the history of ancient cults, even from Roman times.
The queen of the table is homemade pasta in all its expressions and shapes, but do not forget to try local crescentina fritta, salami and local fresh cheese.
Castel San Pietro is a soft, caciotta cheese made from both sheep’s and cow’s milk, and along with grilled mutton chops and Savoiardo Castellano, is the excellence product of the town.
In a town where the good life represents the fil rouge guiding community development, great attention and importance is clearly reserved to safeguarding local gastronomic excellences: the National Honey Observatory is located in Castel San Pietro Terme; many are the winemakers who chose these rolling hills for their vineyards to root, while in the nearby district of Varignana, the excellence is the “green gold”, Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
After exploring the town centre and its history, shops and restaurants, it is time to move for a walk in nature. The high quality of life in Castel San Pietro Terme is not only due to the Thermal Baths, but also thanks to wide areas where nature is the protagonist. A few steps away from the center, is Lungo Sillaro Park: its century-old trees and flowing waters makes it a lovely place to enjoy some peace and tranquillity.
Bike enthusiasts will find many itineraries crossing the town and surrounding territory.
This constant search for the good life has transformed Castel San Pietro Terme into a wellbeing paradise: the famous Thermal Baths offer therapeutic paths thanks to the waters springing from Fegatella Spring, and great attention is given to relaxation and wellness, with specialized treatments, massages and spas.
To experience something new and enjoy a cool evening on the hills, try the 18-hole green of Le Fonti Golf Club.
During springtime, the Spring Fair of Cittaslow, named Very Slow Italy, takes place, where the stars are the local and typical produce of excellent Italian gastronomy.
Not to be missed is the Pork Chop Festival during “Settembre Castellano”, featuring the famous “Carrera”, a race with motorless cars.
Every last Sunday of the month (with stops during summer and Christmas time), the town centre hosts Castro Antiquarium, a traditional antiques market.
The medieval village of Dozza, one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy, only 16 km away from Castel San Pietro Terme, truly is an open air museum. Walking around the streets of the village it is possible to admire the Murals which decorate the town walls and the Sforza Fortress.
