Escaldes-Engordany Advances in EHTTA Bid After Positive Thermal Heritage Review

Escaldes-Engordany is advancing in its bid to join the European Historic Thermal Towns Association (EHTTA), with the president of the group's scientific committee expressing a positive initial assessment after an on-site visit this week.

Hans Hornyik, the Austrian chair of the committee, arrived on Wednesday to evaluate the parish's thermal heritage as part of the application process. Accompanied by Comú representatives including Cònsol Major Rosa Gili and councillor Ramon Tena, he toured key sites linked to the area's thermal waters, such as the Projecte Caldes, Hostal Valira, Plaça Santa Anna, historic bridges, Hotel Carlemany, the old wool factory, and the pumping station beneath Espai Caldes. On Thursday, his itinerary included Caldea, the historic centre, and a working meeting with local officials before a farewell lunch.

Hornyik praised the parish's well-preserved thermal legacy, noting its integration into modern development and its alignment with EHTTA's focus on historic thermal towns. "From my point of view, it fits within the organisation, but I'm not alone in the decision," he said, emphasising that the six-member scientific committee—comprising heritage experts, hydrology institute directors, and cultural specialists—must review the full dossier. He highlighted centuries-old uses of the waters for wool treatment, domestic heating, and later balneary purposes, observing that "remnants of this thermal history are everywhere" and often underappreciated by locals.

Gili described membership as a major recognition of Escaldes-Engordany's thermal patrimony and a chance to exchange practices with towns across countries including Austria, France, Spain, Italy, Greece, Germany, Portugal, Belgium, and Croatia. The network, endorsed by the Council of Europe, promotes collaboration on heritage, tourism, health, and wellbeing through annual gatherings. She noted it would enhance the parish's international profile.

The Comú is finalising a comprehensive dossier detailing the thermal history, patrimonial value, and projects like Projecte Caldes alongside recent cultural and tourism initiatives. Once submitted—expected by late July—the committee will analyse it in August ahead of a recommendation. The executive council will decide by late September, potentially allowing Escaldes-Engordany to join as a full member for the October general assembly in Greece. Hornyik expressed optimism, stating that if approved, "Andorra could attend as a member." Officials acknowledged a minor challenge: the parish's specialised bathhouses date mainly to the 20th century, though earlier industrial and everyday uses bolster the historic claim. A final verdict could come by October's plenary.