The Secret Water of Milan - De Montel

THE THERMAL BATHS RENAISSANCE:

The secret water of Milan

Milan's groundwater has a history rooted in antiquity. As early as the 2nd century A.D., the Romans appreciated its regenerative properties, using it in their spa practices. In 1288, Bonvesin de la Rivain its De Magnalibus Urbis Mediolanidocumented the extraordinary abundance and quality of the water found underground in the city, praising its purity and benefits. This water heritage was rediscovered and studied over the following centuries, up to modern scientific analyses. Today, thanks to technology and hydrogeological studies, De Montel Terme Milano brings this millenary heritage back to life, offering an exclusive wellness experience to those seeking a regenerating break in Milan.

The discovery of these waters, among the deepest ever captured in the city, links Milan to its ancient spa tradition dating back to Roman times. As early as the 1930s, the Milanese knew of the beneficial properties of 'Acqua Marcia', a hot spring that, despite its characteristic sulphurous aroma, was considered an elixir of well-being. The first chemical analyses in 1927, conducted by Formenti and Scipiotti, revealed that it was not sulphurous water, but rather oligomineral, with unique characteristics. Subsequent studies, including one by Professor Bragagnolo in 1947, confirmed the millennia-old mineralisation process and the therapeutic properties of these waters.

The water of De Montel Terme Milano

A natural resource for well-being

During the 19th century, hydrogeological studies began to explore Milan's subsoil in depth, revealing the existence of aquifers of extraordinary purity. This process culminated in the 1927when the first official analyses confirmed the unique properties of 'Rotten Water', showing that its mineralisation had taken place over a geological pathway thousands of years old. In 1947further scientific research corroborated these findings, testifying to the therapeutic value of these waters.

De Montel Terme Milano water comes from a millennial process of filtration through deep geological layers, which guarantees its absolute purity. Its fixed residue of 204 mg/L classifies it as oligomineral, perfect to hydrate, rebalance and regenerate the skin. Its ionic lightness optimises cellular exchanges, contributing to dermatological well-being and the stimulation of reparative processes.

The official recognition came on 30 January 2023when the Ministry of Health certified the thermal waters of De Montel Terme Milano as validated therapeutic resourceby including them among the waters intended for dermatological balneotherapy.

The hydrochemical characteristics of this precious resource make it particularly suitable for the well-being of the skin and body:

Fixed residue: 204 mg/L, which classifies it as oligomineral
pH8.29, a value that helps rebalance the skin barrier
magnesium Electrical conductivity265 μS/cm, balanced mineralisation index
Ionic compositionrich in calcium, and bicarbonates, essential elements for healthy skin
Low sodium contentonly 10 mg/L, making it ideal for low-sodium diets and dermatological treatments

Scientific studies have shown that the thermal water of De Montel Terme Milano favours:

Skin regenerationthanks to the presence of essential minerals that promote cell turnover
Soothing and anti-inflammatory effect: useful in the treatment of dermatitis, psoriasis and other skin conditions
Deep hydrationimproves skin elasticity and strengthens the skin barrier
Stimulation of circulationthanks to its vasodilatory properties

Calcium (Ca²⁺): Essential for cell renewal and cohesion of the epidermis.
Magnesium (Mg²⁺): Helps reduce oxidative stress and improves the skin's barrier function.
Bicarbonates (HCO₃)-): Promotes the skin's pH balance and protects the skin from irritation.
Sodium (Na⁺): In low concentrations, it helps maintain hydration without interfering with the cellular osmotic balance.

The thermal water management system represents a model of technological excellence:
- Daily change of 30% water volume in each tank
- State-of-the-art filtration and sanitisation system
- Constant monitoring of chemical and physical parameters
Regular certified microbiological controls

Every aspect of the spa experience is subject to strict control protocols:
- Continuous water quality monitoring
- Daily sanitisation to a high standard
- Constant plant maintenance
- Ongoing training of specialised personnel

DE MONTEL - TERME MILANO

An oasis of relaxation in the heart of the city

Today, the former stables of the De Montel family are transformed into a modern urban thermal baths complex, the largest in Italy, with over 16,000 square metres indoor and outdoor dedicated to wellness. Here, history and innovation meet to offer a unique experience:

Ten thermal poolswith temperatures between 34°C and 38°C, for an invigorating immersion;
Reaction pools at 22°C, to stimulate circulation;
Advanced hydrotherapy spaceswith oxygenation systems and therapeutic whirlpools;
4 saunas, 1 hammam, 1 steam bath, 9 relaxation areas, for all-round well-being.

The experience is made even more exclusive by the presence of aspecialised medical teamwhich offers customised therapeutic programmes, and a food & beverage area with a bistro restaurant, cafeteria and garden bar, where wellness also extends to the pleasure of good food.

A project guided by sustainability

Il parco termale De Montel – Terme Milano è un modello di sostenibilità urbana, nato nell’ambito di “Reinventing Cities”, il bando internazionale promosso dal Comune di Milano e dalla rete C40 per la riqualificazione sostenibile degli spazi urbani.

Il progetto ha trasformato un luogo storico in una destinazione di benessere all’avanguardia, con un forte impegno ambientale: pannelli solari per la produzione di energia rinnovabile, riutilizzo delle acque piovane e compensazione delle emissioni di CO₂ attraverso la piantumazione di oltre 3.500 alberi. Un’iniziativa che coniuga il rispetto per la storia con una visione concreta per il futuro della città.

History - Reinvention - Sustainability

De Montel between history and the future

Heritage, destination, sustainable project for Milan and the world

What does De Montel Terme Milano represent for the city and the world? A historical and architectural heritage, a destination that did not exist before, an example of sustainable urban regeneration, an initiative of great value that touches on past, present and future.