The idyllic, state-approved spa resort of Bad Elster - one of the oldest mud spas - is set in the heart of the Vogtland region in Saxony. The lovely spa centre is a magnificent example of the spa architecture of the late 19th century, other examples are the Royal Spa Assembly Rooms and the King Albert Spa with its historical bathing facilities. As you stroll to the temple of Flora by the boating lake, you are following in the footsteps of Crown Princess Louise of Saxony.Royal Spa Assembly Rooms
The two-storey Royal Spa Assembly Rooms building constructed between 1888 and 1890 is a notable feature of the complex of spa buildings which has grown up over the past 150 years or so. Flanked by two pavilions, it is a prime example of fin-de-siècle neo-Renaissance architecture. Its filigreework façade is reminiscent of an Italian Renaissance palace. The interior has been preserved almost completely in its original condition, an unusual and rare feature which makes it of national importance, and today it is an impressive reminder of Bad Elster's enduring significance as a spa resort.King Albert Spa - "Elsterado"
King Albert Spa, a beautiful art nouveau building and the centrepiece of the town's health treatment facilities, was named in honour of King Albert of Saxony. Mineral water and hydromassage baths are used here, as well as spa water for drinking. The first main spa building was built in 1851 to 1852 directly alongside the "Marienquelle" spring. As the resort developed, the spa building was extended until it linked up with the King Albert Spa. It houses an extensive pool complex using thermal mineral water in period surroundings.Temple of Flora
The temple of Flora, complete with a statue of the goddess of springtime and flowers was created in 1909 to complement the gardens around the boating lake. Unfortunately, the original bronze figure was destroyed in the Second World War, so an archetypal statue of Flora sculpted in Dresden by Julius Hähnel in 1842 was used as the template for the present replacement.