Melsungen (German pronunciation: [ˈmɛlzʊŋən]) is a small climatic spa town in the Schwalm-Eder district in northern Hesse, Germany.

Historical records of the town date from 802, but it was likely settled much earlier, during the Hallstatt period (9th to 4th Centuries BCE).

Melsungen gained significance due to its location at the intersection of three medieval trade routes: the Sälzerweg, which runs east–west; the Nürnberger Straße, which runs north–south; and Durch die langen Hessen (roughly translated as "Through the Long Hessians").

The origins of the old seal and the current civic coat of arms date back to the late 12th century.

The official description of the town's blazon specifies the roof as "tile-red" rather than "gules" (red).

Following the municipal elections held on 26 March 2006, the seats were apportioned thus: The town executive consists of six councillors and the mayor.

Melsungen lies on the Kassel—Bebra—Fulda railway line and belongs to the North Hesse Transport Network.