The signs in Zurzach guiding to BaselZurzach with its Thermal springs
"Zurzach"
The main attraction in Zurzach is the Spa with a long and interesting history. In the middle ages Zurzach grew from a place of pilgrimage to a major centre of commerce. Merchants came from as far as Italy, France, the Netherlands, Bohemia and even Poland to do business.
"Zurzachs thermal springs"
Zurzach's thermal springs were discovered by chance during drilling for salt in 1914 . People started using it for healing qualities 1954.
Demand was enormous and the town rapidly developed.
There are now 4 springs where water flows from a depth of 430 to 460 metres under its own pressure at a temperature of 39.5 degrees Centigrade and allows outdoor bathing 365 days a year.
Zurzach castle was built at the end of the 19th century in the art nouveau style by Jakob Zuberbühler, a shoe and textiles manufacturere who was largely responsible for the town's renaissance and return to prosperity in modern times.
The castle is home to Hugo Amman, who manages a permanent exhibition featuring around 200 works of Cologne artist August Deusser
"Saint Verena"
Verena, a christian saint was said to have come from Thebes in upper Egypt. Leaving Agaunum (St. Maurice) she walked to Solothurn, where she lived in a cave and looked after the poor and sick. Then she was persecuted as a Christian before being released again. According to legend she came down the Aare on a millstone to Koblenz before moving to Zurzach.
Most depictions of Saint Verena feature the jub and comb that symbolize her work. Her tomb was frequented by sick people and newly weds.
