19. 08.2025
The story of David Josef Becher (1725–1792) is firmly embedded in the history of Karlovy Vary. A doctor, scholar, chemist, patron, benefactor and balneologist whose approach to treatment and the development of spa services still influences the appearance of the town today. Becher is rightly considered one of Karlovy Vary's greatest legends.
He was born on 19th February 1725 in Karlovy Vary in the U dvou řetězů ("At the Two Chains") house near the Hot Spring. His life path was influenced by the miraculous power of the local springs from the very beginning. Although he was born into a respected merchant family, he was not destined to follow in his father's footsteps. He linked his fate with science, medicine and the Hot Spring.
The year 2025 is an exceptional one in Karlovy Vary. The town commemorates 300 years since the birth of Dr. David Josef Becher (*1725–†1792), the man who made Karlovy Vary what it is today – an international spa metropolis. He was an exceptionally educated man, who was not afraid to change the established order and chose to serve his hometown instead of a promising academic career.
David Becher – nicknamed the "Hippocrates of Karlovy Vary" – was the first to scientifically determine the chemical composition of the Karlovy Vary springs and to bring about a revolutionary approach to spa treatment. Already 300 years ago, he described in his writings that each of the local springs has different effects on human health – and that even small sips of water directly at the spring can benefit the body. He believed that a real healing effect occurs only with a comprehensive treatment: a combination of a drinking regimen, mineral baths, a diet, walks in the surrounding countryside and, above all, peace. These recommendations have not been lost in time – they are still valid today.
The springs remain unchanged in their composition and, even after three centuries, they alleviate diseases of the digestive tract, metabolism and musculoskeletal disorders, or provide convalescence after demanding periods in life. Whether you come to boost your health, regenerate your body or enjoy a peaceful rest, Karlovy Vary offers a proven system of care that has its roots in the time of Dr. David Becher.
His initiative led to the creation of the first drinking cups, colonnades and pavilions, which provided guests not only comfort but also protection from the weather. By chemical analysis of the Hot Spring, he confirmed the presence of carbonic acid – "fixe Luft" – and laid the foundations of modern balneology. He fundamentally improved the production of Karlovy Vary spring salt and contributed to the development of the entire town by charity and supporting the establishment of a school and a theatre.
The year 2025 is thus a reminder of an exceptional personality, as well as an invitation to all who desire health, rest and inspiration. Within the anniversary, concerts are held in the colonnades, with stylish theatrical tours available of the town, as well as expert conferences and the screening of a new documentary on the life of Dr. Becher. A special programme also awaits visitors during the European Heritage Days in September.
There is also a limited edition of souvenirs to look forward to: an elegant blue drinking glass from the Thun 1794 porcelain factory, Karlovy Vary bath salts with aragonite and a special edition of Becherovka with the label "Hippocrates of Karlovy Vary". Come to Karlovy Vary this year – walk in the footsteps of Dr. David Becher, drink water directly from the springs, enjoy concerts in the colonnades and treat your body and mind to what Becher recommended already 300 years ago for this purpose.
The Karlovy Vary Hot Spring – the heart of Karlovy Vary – is a miraculous healing gift that continuously gushes from the depths of the earth to bring relief and health. Its power, warmth and unique composition have fascinated entire generations of doctors, visitors and residents. However, no one fell for it with such passion as Dr. David Becher. This exceptional man dedicated his entire life to the study of spring water and became its greatest promoter. He believed in its effects, and thanks to his courage and vision, the Hot Spring became not just a natural phenomenon, but the basis of a world-famous spa tradition that heals body and spirit to this day.
Vary°Becherovy 2025 – the Year the Town Returns to its Roots.
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