Montecatini Terme

Italy

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Article History

Montecatini Terme, town and mineral spa, Toscana (Tuscany) region, north central Italy, in the Valdinievole, at an altitude of 89 ft (27 m), just southwest of Pistoia. Known since the 14th century for its warm saline springs, it acquired importance when Leopold II (1747–92), grand duke of Tuscany, built the first public baths. Unified under government sponsorship, its hot springs have made it Italy’s foremost spa. There are about 250 hotels, and the saline waters are also exported. Transportation facilities include railway and bus services and the airports of Pisa and Florence. Pop. (2006 est.) mun., 20,643.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Amy Tikkanen.