Bad Langensalza

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Bad Langensalza (until 1956: Langensalza) is a city in the County of Unstrut-Hainich, Thuringia, Germany, with a population of 19,000 (2003).

In 1075, Langensalza was the site of the First Battle of Langensalza, in which Emperor Henry IV won over the rebelling Saxons and Thuringians. It was also the site of the 1866 Second Battle of Langensalza between Prussia and Hanover during the Austro-Prussian War.

It was first mentioned in historical records ca. 932, as a village named "Salzaha". The city name was changed to Langensalza ca. 1578, and "Bad" or "Bath" added to the city name in 1956. The city was plundered and damaged by fires during the 30 years' war, ca. 1632. Fires again destroyed large parts of the city in 1711, including complete destruction of the city hall. The City Hall was rebuild between 1742-1752. War again affected the city during 1756-1763, during the 7 Year War. In 1811 sulphur fountains were discovered. 1815, Langensalza fell under Prussian rule. In 1866 itwas the site of the Second Battle of Langensalza between Prussia and Hanover during the Austro-Prussian War. American troops occupied the city in 1945.

Langensalza is something of a tourist spot, with picturesque ruins of a medieval castle, and sulphur baths nearby.

The sulphur baths were discovered in 1811, and opened to the public as a curative bath in 1812. A new version of the public sulphur bath was opened in 1928. Salt and mineral water springs were discovered in 1996, which prompted the opening of many new curative facilities.

Bad Langensalza borders National Park Hanich, which was founded in 1999.