Hercules Spa, situated in a wonderful valley of the Cerna – river, in the western part of Romania, was built by the Romans in the 2nd century A.D. and rebuilt by the Habsburgs starting with 1736. In 1791, during the Austrian – Turkish War, it was almost entirely destroyed, and only in 1801, did the spas begin to flourish and to be known in entire Europe. The place has a gentle climate, with rare temperature below -1°C during winter. Due to the risen temperatures of the thermal springs (between 38° C and 68° C), there are a lot of treatments done here.

The legend tells that the mighty Hercules came in the region and bathe in the warm springs from the Valley, becoming stronger than he was before. Another legend says that here was the place where Hercules defeated Medusa, after he has bathed in the wonder springs.

After leaving the harbor Orsova and driving about half an hour along the Danube, we reach the Town of Hercules Spas. Our first stop is at the Archaeological Museum, which in his former shape housed the first Romanian Casino. Here we can admire objects dating from the Roman period like coins, statues, bas-reliefs.  Afterwards we make a short break at the beautiful Ferdinand Hotel for a coffee and some pastry.

The excursion continues with a walk on the main alley, along the Cerna River, passing by the imposing Hercules’ Statue and by the Catholic Church built in the time of Emperor Franz Joseph till we reach the Roman baths, which are covered today by the original Austro-Hungarian walls. Afterwards drive back to the ship.

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