Known for millenia for the benefits of its warm water, the Romans were probably the first to exploit the thermal waters of Néris-les-Bains. From the 1st century, the village was developed along the lines of Rome; spa, pools, villas, aqueducts, temples and an amphitheater were constructed. As a result, this charming little spa resort contains a number of relics, all reminders of its rich past. Gallo-Roman pools and a Gallic oppidum in the Chaudes Park, a Roman amphitheatre, a Merovingian necropolis, and a Romanesque church, as well as a theatre, casino, spa and old Belle Époque station, are just some of the captivating architectural heritage buildings you will see dotted about this town. However it was only during the19th century, that Néris-les-Bains came into fashion with the visit of the Duchess of Wales in 1826. It was during this time that the spa, large hotels, the casino, the theater and the numerous eclectic villas were built and the parks and promenades created. Famous figures who delighted in the waters of Néris-les-Bains besides the Duchess, were Lammartine, Musset and the Empress Eugenie, to name a few.