Remains dating back to the 8th century BC reveal in the area of the Euganean Thermae the presence of a lake, which the locals believed to be of divine origin because of its spontaneous springs of sulphurous boiling water. Here they performed cult rites, offers to the gods and immersions to receive benefits and health.
The initial divinization of this water changed into the cult of Aponus, god protector of the springs, from where the modern name of Abano Terme has come.

Starting from 49 BC, when Patavium and neighbouring lands - including the Euganean Thermae – became municipium, there was a high bourgeois class of Romanized Patavins who gave great importance to the thermae. They helped the establishment of public baths and thermal plants, following the model of the high class Romans.

The ancient lake sanctuary changed into a rich and complex thermal resort, where you could go to invigorate body and mind.

At the centre of this thermal area, called Abano Terme in honour of the god Aponus, stands now the Roma Terme Hotel, a meeting point for myth and truth.