Matsesta: Sulfur Spring and Spa History

• The Matsesta spring flows naturally from underground, is part of the “Matsesta” balneological resort, and is a cultural heritage site of regional significance.
• Matsesta’s history as a balneological spa began on September 15, 1902, or September 28 according to the New Style calendar.
• Bathhouse No. 4 was built and opened in 1940 to a design by A. P. Golubev.
• Bus routes 7, 43, 120, and 121 run from central Sochi to the “Staraya Matsesta” stop.

The spring is known for its naturally flowing, healing sulfur water. It is also part of the “Matsesta” balneological resort and is designated a cultural heritage site of regional significance. Balneology refers to the use of natural mineral waters in spa treatments; in Matsesta, this connection can be traced back to a specific historical beginning.

On September 15, 1902, or September 28 according to the New Style calendar, physician V. F. Podgursky began administering hydrogen sulfide baths under medical supervision near the caves in Staraya Matsesta. A small wooden building with two wooden baths was available for this purpose. This event is considered the beginning of Matsesta as a balneological spa. The two dates refer to the same historical beginning according to different calendar styles.

Bathhouse No. 4, “Dvorets Zdorovya,” was built and opened in 1940 to a design by architect A. P. Golubev. It is part of the architectural ensemble of Staraya Matsesta. This brings two points in time together: the beginning of the spa’s history in 1902 and the construction of this building in 1940.

The floor plan is particularly striking: it resembles the Cyrillic letter “Zh.” Two large semicircular wings face one another and are connected by a central section. The architecture can thus be described as two rounded sides joined by a connecting center. This shape is as specific a feature of the building as its name and its connection to architect Golubev.

On the excursion, visitors learn about Matsesta’s hydrogen sulfide water and dip their hands into it. They also find out why the mineral water is called “ognennoy”—“fiery.” Explanations of balneology and modern treatment methods round out this part of the program.

The subtropical arboretum of the “Matsesta” resort is also part of the excursion. Visitors are told about the plants growing there, learn more about them, and hear about their uses. The experience therefore brings together water, spa history, and plants, without presenting the arboretum here as a separate destination to visit. The operator currently includes the excursion in its program; as dates may change, check the latest schedule before your visit.

Bus routes 7, 43, 120, and 121 run from central Sochi to the “Staraya Matsesta” stop. It is a good idea to check current service on these routes before setting out. The “Rynok” stop is also in Staraya Matsesta and provides another local reference point.

Discover more destinations: Novoderevyankovskiy, Medvedovskaya, Volkonka, Dzhubga, Chadyschensk, Borisovka, Golubitskaya, Besleneevskaya.

When did Matsesta’s history as a balneological spa begin?

On September 15, 1902, or September 28 according to the New Style calendar. Physician V. F. Podgursky began administering hydrogen sulfide baths under medical supervision near the caves in Staraya Matsesta.

What is architecturally distinctive about Bathhouse No. 4?

Its floor plan resembles the Cyrillic letter “Zh”: two large semicircular wings face one another and are connected by a central section.

Which bus routes go to the “Staraya Matsesta” stop?

Routes 7, 43, 120, and 121 run there from central Sochi. Check current service before your trip.

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