The facility was already known and appreciated in ancient times, often visited as an alternative to the famous Taurine Baths (Baths of Trajan) in Roman times. The water that still flows from the spring is the same water in which Emperor Trajan bathed many centuries ago!
The Etruscans also knew about this miraculous spring. In fact, halfway between ancient Civitavecchia and Tarquinia, they built the city of Aquae Tauri, now lost, of which only a few ruins remain. The Ficoncella thermal complex, unlike the Baths of Trajan, is not very large and features a total of five natural pools with varying temperatures, starting with the hottest at 60°C.
Interesting fact: The name Ficoncella derives from a large fig tree, still standing, which also provides shade for bathers on the sunniest days.
A WATER WITH BENEFICIAL PROPERTIES
Due to its countless therapeutic properties, the waters of Ficoncella are recommended for treating various ailments: dermatitis, arthritis, gastric problems, respiratory and urinary tract disorders. They are also very effective for healing wounds and for inhaling. Next to one of the pools at the entrance, just to the right, you can inhale the fumes rising from the nearby cave.
The temperature varies from 50 to 60 degrees Celsius, depending on the pool into which the water flows. This sulfurous water, however, is characterized by the absence of strong sulfuric odors. The heat of the water allows the calcium sulfate to react, releasing sulfuric acid and other salts, ensuring a beneficial, hydrating yet stimulating effect. The waters are, in fact, defined as calcium sulfate-based, slightly alkaline.
