A timeless destination
Since remote ages, bath has been used as a therapeutic mea- sure by ancient civilizations, the oldest discoveries of this types of buildings can be traced back to about 2000 b.c. in India.
Similar buildings have been mentioned in ancient Greek texts either, like Iliad by Homer. The first records of hot springs usage were dated to the late V century BC.
Below we´re going to outline the main facts that involved the hot springs at Purapora Palace, along the riverbanks of Agua Caliente River in Cartago.
The Origins – Ancient Healing Waters
Long before the modern world discovered the wonders of hot springs therapy, the Huetares, one of Costa Rica’s most influential indigenous tribes, revered these natural waters for their medicinal properties. The Purapora hot springs were considered sacred, a place where warriors, healers, and elders would bathe to restore their strength and spirit.
Colonial Influence & The Rise of Hydrotherapy
With the arrival of Spanish explorers in the 16th century, the region’s thermal waters gained newfound recognition. By 1563, Spanish conquistadors, led by Juan Vásquez de Coronado, declared Cartago the capital of Costa Rica, impressed by its natural beauty and healing springs. These waters were rumored to be a fountain of youth, drawing aristocrats and medical practitioners to study and harness their benefits.
The Golden Era – Bella Vista Hotel (1885)
In 1885, Roberto A. Crespi and León de Gatskoffky founded the Bella Vista Hotel, Costa Rica’s first hydrotherapy and medical wellness center. Nestled by the Agua Caliente River, the hotel attracted royalty, diplomats, and affluent travelers from around the world, offering luxury accommodations centered around thermal water treatments.
The hotel flourished, leading to Cartago’s development as one of the first cities in the Americas to have a tram system (1887), specifically designed to transport guests to the hot springs.
The Modern Renaissance – Palacio Purapora’s Revival
After the decline of traditional hydrotherapy in the early 20th century, the site’s legacy remained dormant. However, in 2008, visionary entrepreneur Abraham Kotlizki rediscovered the potential of the Purapora hot springs. He founded Great Business Ideas S.A., embarking on a mission to restore and elevate the site into a world-class wellness destination.
Today, Palacio Purapora stands as a modern tribute to its rich history, blending ancient wisdom, colonial elegance, and contemporary wellness innovations.