Novopazarska Banja

Novopazarska Banja, located in the Raško district of southwestern Serbia, has a population of approximately 3,000 residents. Three kilometers from Novi Pazar, this village is known for its long-standing center for health and rejuvenation, Novopazar spa.

Rising in the valley of the Izbička river, a right tributary of the Raška river, the Novopazar spa is a remarkable venue for natural treatment. Rising 505 meters above sea level, the geographical coordinates are 43°09’17” N latitude and 20°32’22” E longitude. The spa is in a prime location surrounded by a somewhat large range of mountains. The Golija lies north; Kopaonik is clearly seen on the eastern horizon. The slopes of Rogozna define the southeast terrain; the Ninaja mountains to the west accentuate this arresting scene.

Banja offers a perfect haven for anybody trying to escape the rigors of city life. Located 272 kilometers from Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, it provides accessibility as well as some seclusion, thereby allowing a real retreat into the natural world.

The remarkable thermal mineral springs of the Novopazar spa are well-known. Sulphurous hyperthermia is the classification used for these natural events, which show great therapeutic value. The microclimate of the spa offers reasonable circumstances that are especially helpful for recovery and general wellness. Healing waters combined with a pleasant temperature have given Novopazar spa the label of a “health oasis.”

This spa’s history goes back to antiquity; its reputation as a healing center was confirmed during the Middle Ages when it was a major health destination in the Raška area. Still, the beginning of the Ottoman Turks brought about a decline in popularity. This respite was short since the Turks soon praised the unique features of the region. They embraced the benefits of the spa and upgraded its infrastructure over a century by erecting two Turkish baths and facilities for guests.

Beyond local borders, the spa attracted the curiosity of foreign guests. The French travel writer Lefebvre noted early in the 16th century the existence of “natural hot springs near Novi Pazar,” hence improving the spa’s worldwide reputation. The mid-17th century started a noteworthy period of spa remodeling. Building a hammam above the old bath and a caravanserai to house guests, the Turks demonstrated their architectural talent and appreciation of the value of the spa.

Still, the spa’s historical path ran over several obstacles. During the Vienna War, the Novopazar spa suffered major damage. But it was meant for revival. Currently, the Old Hammam and the Terme in Novopazarska Banja act as proof of this rich heritage since they give guests direct access to it.

Characterised by the construction of a new bath facility, the late 18th century marked a major comeback in the tourism sector of the Novopazar spa. Still, the post-World War II era greatly helped the spa to develop into modern times. Advanced inpatient facilities and the Institute devoted to the treatment and rehabilitation of patients with muscular and neuromuscular diseases were developed during this time. A major turning point came in 1953 when the hospital of the Rheumatology Center was under building. These changes made Novopazar spa a top dystrophies treatment clinic in the area.

Novopazar spa‘s thermal mineral waters are a vital natural resource that offer efficient treatments for many diseases and help to restore impaired health. Healing mud is created from the mineral-rich waters, therefore improving the therapeutic offerings of the spa.

Novopazar Spa is unique in that its medicinal springs have particular qualities. Though they come from a shared thermal source, the springs’ water compositions show somewhat different fluctuations. This phenomena results from water moving along subsurface paths combining with different subterranean sources and reacting with different geological formations. As such, the waters surface show different temperatures and mineral compositions, each with unique healing qualities.

There are fourteen springs in total at the spa; water temps range from 15°C to 50°C. These temperatures classify them as hyperthermal waters, known for their great therapeutic advantages. With water discharge rates reaching up to 5 liters per second, the springs show great variety in temperature and excellent yield. This plenty of flow ensures enough supply for the several therapeutic and recreational needs of the spa.

The thermomineral waters at Novopazar spa have somewhat unusual chemical composition. Minerals abound in the waters, with especially high levels of salt, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. The anion composition comprises hydrocarbons, chlorine, sulfate, and nitrate. Furthermore, the waters contain dissolved oxides including iron, aluminum oxide, and silicon dioxide, along with free carbonic acids and free hydrogen sulfide. The chemical profile categorizes the waters of Novopazar spa as sulphurous-acidic hyperthermic, exhibiting a solid content of 1.6 grams per liter.