The arrival of spring coincides with an increase in visits to the thermal baths of Elbasan, where people suffering from rheumatism seek relief in sulfur-rich thermal water pools.

“Over 10,000 people visit the Elbasan thermal baths every year, and upon returning home, they report feeling better. The most loyal visitors come from Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Switzerland.”

“We’ve been coming here for two years. My husband had joint issues, but since coming here, he feels much better. We wouldn’t change these baths for anything. Everything is ideal for treatment: the quality of the water, the food, the cleanliness. I also suffer from spine issues, and with massages and the baths, I feel relieved until spring. I come twice a year.”

“I’ve been coming here for 10 years. We love the thermal baths. We come for the healing. They welcome us and treat us well. What’s your condition that brings you back for a decade? My legs hurt, my hands too—rheumatism. And do you feel any relief after your stay? Yes, gradually, I feel better.”

“This is our third time coming here. It helps a lot with rheumatism. We have a great time, and the hospitality leaves a good impression. I feel better—I’ve had surgery, and the baths help with that too. The atmosphere is refreshing, and the water has high sulfur content.”

In addition to rheumatism, the thermal waters are recommended for treating respiratory illnesses, nervous system disorders, and skin conditions.

“We come from Kosovo. The water is very healthy—we come here for rheumatism, for knee and leg pain. We visit twice: in spring and again in October.”

The thermal waters of Elbasan are known for their healing properties, and with improved services year after year, the number of visitors continues to grow. Alongside Peshkopia and Fushë-Kruja, Elbasan remains one of the few locations in Albania that has utilized thermal waters for decades.