Location: On the left bank of the Teplá River in the spa zone of Karlovy Vary
Period of construction: Between 1852 and 1855
Period of reconstruction: 1905 and 1920
Architect: Wenzel Hagenauer
Official opening: 12 July 1855
Accessibility: Accessible during opening hours

How to get there

Route 1:        You may reach the Army Spa Institution if you walk from the Hot Spring in the spa centre along the left bank of the Teplá River, walk past the Mill Colonnade all the way to Dvořákovy sady (Dvořák Park). This route, which offers a pleasant walk through the city centre, is approximately 800 metres long and it will take you about 15 minutes.

 Route 2:        The second alternative is to travel by Bus No. 1 or Bus No. 4 from the "Tržnice" (Market) city bus terminal to the "Lázně III" (Spa III) terminal stop. From there, walk approximately 100 metres across Lázeňský most (Spa Bridge) over the Teplá River to the Army Spa Institution.

History of the structure

 The Pseudo-Renaissance building of Vojenský lázeňský ústav (Army Spa Institution) was built between 1852 and 1855 according to the design of architect Wenzel Hagenauer on the left bank of the Teplá River in the spa zone of Karlovy Vary. Dr. Hochberger, a great patron and the founder of the institution, donated all his property to expedite the construction and he received several awards for his immense efforts. The grand opening and consecration of the new building was held on 12 July 1855.

 The Army Spa Institution became the first spa facility providing comprehensive spa treatment in Karlovy Vary, as well as one of the largest military spa facilities in Europe. In 1905, the building was covered with a newly architecturally designed, decorative Classicist facade with triangular gables, and an additional floor was added in 1920, which resulted in an increase in the capacity of the spa facility. At present, the historical building houses Vojenská lázeňská léčebna – lázeňský dům Sadový Pramen (Army Spa Treatment Facility – Park Spring Spa House). In the basement of the complex, you may find the seep of the Park Spring, which is accessible from Dvořák Park, and you may admire the bust of Gallus Hochberger in the courtyard.