Overview of the Mill Colonnade Springs

The Mill Colonnade is a masterpiece of 19th-century design. Architect Josef Zítek created this massive stone structure. It serves as a sheltered walkway for spa guests. This site is now a key part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing for the city. Walking through the colonnade is a central part of the local cure.

The mineral water here is rich in carbon dioxide and salts. Doctors often prescribe specific springs for different health issues. Most of the waters here are quite warm. They range from 53°C to 65°C. Understanding mill-colonnade-history-and-springs helps you appreciate the tradition. Below are the specific spots you must visit.

• Best overall: Mill Spring
• Best for photos: The Corinthian Columns
• Best for families: Rusalka Spring
• Best nearby trip: Hot Spring Colonnade

A Guide to Which Springs are in the Mill Colonnade

When asking which springs are in the Mill Colonnade, you will find six primary sources. These are located along the 132-meter long aisle. Most are easily accessible to the public for free. You should bring a traditional porcelain spa cup to taste them. Follow the local how-to-drink-water-at-mill-colonnade guide for the best experience.

1. Name: Rock Spring (Pramen Skalní) Type: sight|experience Why go: This is one of the cooler springs at 53°C. It was once located directly in the Teplá River. Best for: Gentle mineral tasting. Where: Northern end of the colonnade. Time: 5-10 mins. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the town center. Tip: Look for the plaque detailing its history.
2. Name: Libuše Spring (Pramen Libuše) Type: sight|experience Why go: It was originally called the Spring of the Roses. It has a temperature of 62°C. Best for: Historical charm. Where: Inside the central part of the colonnade. Time: 5 mins. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located near the main entrance stairs. Tip: This spring is popular for its consistent flow.
3. Name: Prince Wenceslas Spring I (Pramen Kníže Václav I) Type: sight|experience Why go: This is the hottest spring in this specific colonnade at 65°C. It was once used to produce medicinal salt. Best for: Seeing the steam. Where: Near the orchestra pit. Time: 5 mins. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central walkway. Tip: Be careful, the water is very hot to the touch.
4. Name: Prince Wenceslas Spring II (Pramen Kníže Václav II) Type: sight|experience Why go: This is a secondary outlet of the same source. It flows at a slightly lower temperature. Best for: Shorter queues during peak hours. Where: Just a few meters from the first outlet. Time: 5 mins. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk along the main colonnade floor. Tip: Compare the taste with its hotter counterpart.
5. Name: Mill Spring (Pramen Mlýnský) Type: sight|experience Why go: This is the most famous spring in the building. It has been used for healing since the 16th century. Best for: Iconic spa tradition. Where: Middle section of the colonnade. Time: 10 mins. Cost: Free. Getting there: Main pedestrian zone. Tip: This spring was once sold in bottles across Europe.
6. Name: Rusalka Spring (Pramen Rusalka) Type: sight|experience Why go: Named after the famous water nymph. It has a temperature of 60°C. Best for: Fans of local folklore. Where: Southern end of the structure. Time: 5 mins. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible from the riverfront path. Tip: It was formerly known as the New Spring.

Architectural and Nearby Highlights

Beyond the water, the building itself is a work of art. The Neo-Renaissance style reflects the wealth of the 19th-century elite. You can spend an hour just admiring the stonework. The official tourism portal offers maps of these features. Do not miss the sculptures located on the roof terrace.

7. Name: The 124 Corinthian Columns Type: sight Why go: These massive stone pillars support the entire roof. They create a rhythmic and grand atmosphere. Best for: Photography and architecture lovers. Where: Throughout the entire length. Time: 15 mins. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk through the main hall. Tip: Visit at sunrise for the best light.
8. Name: Allegorical Statues Type: sight Why go: There are 12 statues on the roof gable. Each one represents a different month of the year. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: On the upper terrace level. Time: 10 mins. Cost: Free. Getting there: Look up from the river side. Tip: Bring binoculars to see the fine details.
9. Name: The Orchestra Pit Type: experience Why go: This space is used for live spa music. It adds a wonderful soundtrack to your walk. Best for: Relaxing atmosphere. Where: Center of the colonnade. Time: 20 mins. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the sound of music. Tip: Check the local schedule for afternoon concerts.
10. Name: Hot Spring Colonnade (Vřídlo) Type: day trip Why go: Located nearby, it houses the city's most powerful geyser. It shoots water 12 meters high. Best for: Seeing the power of nature. Where: 5-minute walk from Mill Colonnade. Time: 30 mins. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south along the river. Tip: Visit the hot-spring-colonnade-vridlo-geyser for underground tours.
11. Name: Diana Observation Tower Type: day trip Why go: Offers the best panoramic views of the city. You can see the colonnades from above. Best for: Viewpoints. Where: On the hill above the town. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Funicular fee applies. Getting there: Take the diana-observation-tower-funicular-guide from Grandhotel Pupp. Tip: Walk back down through the forest paths.