In the first half of the 19th century, during the reign of
Marie Louise, Duchess of Parma, the thermal waters of Salsomaggiore became attractive to visitors for having therapeutic purposes. The mineral waters of Salsomaggiore belong to the bromo-iodine group salty waters. A
hypertonic and cold water extracted from
artesian wells, deep, at a
temperature of and at a density of 16° on the
Baumé scale (1 degree Baumé is equivalent to approximately salt per litre). The main focus of the town became its baths, notably the "terme" located in the center. These and the hotels affiliated with the town include: •
Palazzo dei Congressi •
Palazzo delle Terme Berzieri The town remains attractive to visitors. Since 2007 Salsomaggiore is home of the European Festival called Incontrarsi a Salsomaggiore, a celebration of art, music and theater dedicated to women and their health. Around the central
piazza are clothing shops and a
gelateria. The town has a large number of villas and hotels some of whom (like the Grand Hotel Regina), have events such
Miss Italia competition, held here until 2010. Two nearby villages, Salsominore and
Tabiano, also have thermal springs. Salsomaggiore Terme is a
World Trade Center (WTC). ==Climate==