Pouhon Pierre Le Grand

In the 16th century, the spring was mentioned in the work "Des fontaines acides de la forêt d'Ardenne et principalement de celle qui se trouve à Spa" (The acidic fountains of the Ardennes forest and the principalities of the springs found in Spa ) by physician Gilbert Lymborgh. At that time, there was only a small alcove.

In 1717, Tsar Peter the Great stayed in the city and visited the spring. He was treated there from June 28th to July 25th for intestinal problems . He felt so good after this thermal treatment that he became one of the greatest promoters of thermalism in Spa , the birthplace of modern thermalism. He donated a large portion of his royal letters to the city of Spa at that time, and it became "the place to be."

It was in tribute to his visit that the Emperor's name was given to the spring in 1820.

Later his bust was placed in the building .

The current spring building was built in 1880. It houses the Tourist Office and the famous Golden Book of Spa , a work by the painter Antoine Fontaine, 9 meters long, with a cheerful chronological chaos of 92 characters who have undergone a spa treatment in Spa (including (naturally) Peter the Great, Emperor Joseph II, Charles II of England, René Descartes, Leopold II, etc.).

The water itself is the most carbonated in the city. Refreshing, rich in iron and mineral salts, the spring produces 21,000 liters per day.

Willem Vandenameele