Massimo Caputi on How De Montel – Terme Milano Became Winner of the ESPA Innovation Award in the category “Innovative Spa Destination“
1. This has been one of the largest investments in Europe’s spa and wellness sector in recent years. What was the driving vision behind this project, and what message do you hope it sends about the future of urban wellbeing in Europe?
The driving vision behind De Montel – Terme Milano was to create a new benchmark for urban wellness in Europe, and we wanted it to be one that is authentic, sustainable, and deeply rooted in both nature and history. This is not just a spa; it is the only facility in Milan with certified natural thermal water, sourced from a 396-meter-deep artesian aquifer. Rich in sulphates, bicarbonates and minerals, this water offers proven therapeutic benefits and connects the city to its ancient thermal tradition, dating back to Roman times.
We wanted to demonstrate that wellness can – and must- be part of the urban tissue.
The project is also a model of environmental innovation: it operates with zero emissions, uses solar panels and rainwater recovery systems also contributing to reforestation in the Milan metropolitan area. Through the international Reinventing Cities programme, we addressed ten climate challenges, from energy efficiency to sustainable materials.
This investment sends a clear message: Europe is ready to lead a new era of urban wellbeing, where health, sustainability and cultural heritage converge to improve quality of life for all citizens.
“De Montel is more than a spa; it’s a catalyst for urban regeneration and a model that can inspire cities across Europe to rethink wellness in a sustainable way.”
Massimo Caputi
2. Traditional thermal spas are often located in the countryside or mountains. You bring that experience to millions of city residents every day. How does this urban setting change the way people experience and value thermal therapy?
The urban setting transforms the way people engage with thermal wellness. At De Montel we’ve made genuine thermal therapy accessible within the daily rhythm of Milanese life. No need to travel to remote locations: residents can now integrate wellness into their routines, whether before work, after a stressful day, or as part of a weekend ritual.
What makes this experience truly special is the Terme di Saturnia Method, which we have brought into the city. This method is the result of decades of expertise developed at one of Italy’s most iconic thermal destinations. It includes exclusive treatment protocols, sensory ceremonies, and skincare products enriched with Saturnia Bioplancton and freeze-dried thermal water. These elements offer antioxidant, detoxifying and regenerative effects, ensuring that every treatment is both scientifically effective and emotionally restorative.
The urban context also enhances inclusivity. De Montel is designed to be fully accessible, with lifts and pool hoists for people with disabilities, and partnerships with local associations to ensure that vulnerable groups can benefit from the healing power of thermal water. For us, the thermal therapy needs to be a modern, democratic and essential service for city living.
“This project shows that Europe is ready for a new era of urban wellbeing, where environmental innovation, cultural heritage and health merge to improve the quality of life for all.”
Massimo Caputi
3. Beyond the beautiful architecture and wellness experience, what kind of wider impact do you anticipate for Milan’s economy, the local community, and Europe’s position as a global spa destination?
De Montel is a catalyst for urban regeneration and a strategic asset for Milan’s future. The restoration of the historic Art Nouveau stables – abandoned for decades – has brought new life to the San Siro district, creating over 100 jobs and attracting both local and international visitors. The project was developed with a €57 million investment through the ESG Infrastructure Fund by Azimut Group, in partnership with Terme & SPA Italia.
The impact goes far beyond wellness. We’ve created a multifunctional space that blends architecture, nature and technology. The centre includes 10 thermal pools, advanced hydrotherapy circuits, saunas, hammams, and relaxation areas, all designed with sustainability in mind. Over 3,000 plants have been planted within the park, and 350 trees will be added to the Milan hinterland over the next decade.
On a European scale, De Montel positions Milan as a leader in sustainable wellness tourism.
By combining the excellence of Terme di Saturnia with cutting-edge urban design, we offer a replicable model that we hope will inspire other cities to follow our path because it is a new chapter for Europe’s spa culture that embraces innovation, inclusivity and environmental responsibility.
