Saline

The Saline is a historic salt production facility in Bad Kissingen, with the Obere Saline building featuring cast iron windows and a symmetrical facade with large openings that reflect 19th century industrial design principles. The facility demonstrates the architecture of a functional factory built specifically to process mineral water.

The facility was founded in 1848 and marked the beginning of Bad Kissingen's development as a major center for therapeutic mineral water treatments. The establishment of the works was closely linked to local natural resources and the growing medical recognition of spa treatments.

The building now houses the Bismarck Museum, where visitors can see objects and documents of the former German chancellor who often visited Bad Kissingen. The space connects the industrial past of the town with the history of an important political figure.

The site is best visited during daylight hours since interior spaces are lit by natural light from the large windows. The walking route through Bad Kissingen town is flat and accessible, making for a pleasant stroll to this monument.

The building preserves the original water wheel mechanism and steam engine room, showing how mineral water was processed to extract salt. These technical components are witnesses to the 19th century innovative processes that remain visible and understandable today.