In the early 19th century, Switzerland was something like the Mecca for those seeking relaxation. This particularly applied to people struggling with chronic illnesses. The dry mountain air, as well as the mineral springs and healing herbs, were said to possess magical healing powers. This book from 1865 describes all the Swiss spa resorts of that time - which, by the way, are the same as today - in detail from both tourist and medical perspectives, revealing many forgotten and interesting details to the modern reader.