The Miskolctapolca Cave Bath may begin welcoming visitors again as early as September, provided that the post-construction water testing scheduled for late August yields satisfactory results, Tamás Horváth, technical director of the restoration project, said during a press tour of the complex on Wednesday.
Upgrades accompany restoration at famed cave bath
The works extend beyond repairing damage caused by the fire, encompassing significant upgrades as well. The entire mechanical infrastructure of the bath complex is being replaced, including a comprehensive overhaul of the ventilation system and boiler house. Underfloor heating is being installed throughout the bathing halls and cave passages, necessitating the lowering of floor levels by some 40 centimetres, Mr Horváth explained to the Hungarian News Agency.
Reinforcement of the pool lining within the main bath hall has also been deemed necessary. A specialised insulating material is being applied to both walls and flooring to ensure long-term watertight integrity. Meanwhile, the electrical network and lighting systems within the cave passages are being completely renewed.
Exploring funding options
Officials noted during the technical inspection that both the project managers and contractors are working continuously—at times in extended shifts—in an effort to bring forward the reopening date as much as possible.
Subject to successful water testing and satisfactory bacteriological results, both the indoor and outdoor pools of the complex are expected to reopen simultaneously.
Mr Horváth added that the reconstruction of the bath’s medical wing does not fall within the contractor’s contractual obligations. He indicated that the municipal authorities are currently exploring funding options to support the refurbishment of that section.
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