Participatory Landscape Design in the Restoration of Natural and Cultural Heritage. A Case Study of Vernacular Bath Renewal

The therapeutic use of the mineral waters has been prevalent in Europe from ancient times to the present day. For centuries, the medicinal properties of the mineral waters of Szeklerland (Transylvania, Romania) have been regularly used by the local residents, as a part of the relaxation and cleansing. Over the centuries, it has become part of daily routine as a natural remedy that stimulates circulation and metabolism, regenerates muscles and reduces arthritic pain, and its curative effects have contributed to the development of respect for nature and the need to preserve and maintain the natural environment over generations. Small and larger vernacular baths were built in the settlements with medicinal springs, and their regular use led during the 19th and 20th centuries to the development of a traditional, local cold-water bathing culture. However, the baths were destroyed in the world wars, and their use was abolished. After the political and social changes from the 1990’s, as part of nature and landscape conservation initiatives, the reinterpretation and restoration of the intangible and practical values of vernacular baths in Transylvania also began: dozens of vernacular baths have been renovated with public participation initiated and led by professionals. In the course of the renovations, baths have been rebuilt using nature- and environment-friendly techniques, materials in a way that they are also related to the physical environment and the mythology of the region. The project has become a successful and exemplary movement in sustainable water preservation and landscape heritage renewal.