The contribution analyzes the origins and development of the medieval hospital of San Martino ai Bagni Caldi within the context of Italian thermal practices between the 14th and 16th centuries, challenging the historiographical assumption of a general medieval rejection of the body. Through the analysis of sources, it shows that the use of thermal baths was a widespread and socially accepted practice, integrated into both Galenic medicine and Christian charity. The documentary reconstruction of the baths of Corsena highlights the role of institutions, key actors, and regulatory frameworks, proposing a model in which care of the body, assistance, and religiosity are closely intertwined.
Sabbatini, I. (2026). «Bonae sunt ad balnea». Alle origini dell’Ospitale medievale di San Martino ai bagni caldi. In E. Gonnelli, I. Sabbatini, B. Micheletti, R. Zagnoni (a cura di), Passare le acque. Atti del Convegno di studi sulle terme di Montecatini Terme – Porretta Terme – Bagni di Lucca (pp. 185-210). Bagni di Lucca : Istituto Storico Lucchese.
«Bonae sunt ad balnea». Alle origini dell’Ospitale medievale di San Martino ai bagni caldi
Ilaria sabbatini
2026-01-01
Abstract
The contribution analyzes the origins and development of the medieval hospital of San Martino ai Bagni Caldi within the context of Italian thermal practices between the 14th and 16th centuries, challenging the historiographical assumption of a general medieval rejection of the body. Through the analysis of sources, it shows that the use of thermal baths was a widespread and socially accepted practice, integrated into both Galenic medicine and Christian charity. The documentary reconstruction of the baths of Corsena highlights the role of institutions, key actors, and regulatory frameworks, proposing a model in which care of the body, assistance, and religiosity are closely intertwined.| File | Dimensione | Formato | |
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«BONAE SUNT AD BALNEA». ALLE ORIGINI DELL’OSPITALE MEDIEVALE DI SAN MARTINO AI BAGNI CALDI Ante Litteram 2025.pdf
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