Asia Chevron. Turkey Chevron. Istanbul Chevron. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Hammams have a rich history dating back to the Roman and Byzantine periods, when public baths were a central element of daily life. These opulent structures, adorned with glimmering marble and decked in delicate carvings, were quickly adopted by the Ottomans in such cities as Istanbul , too.
Rooted in Islamic culture, which emphasizes the importance of cleanliness and personal hygiene, hammams reached their zenith during the 16th and 17th centuries. It's not difficult for modern visitors to imagine the citizens of times gone who made these communal spaces their own, taking part in hushed conversations, political discussions and even business transactions.
Whilst no longer the place for serious conversation, hammams still play an integral part in Turkish culture, with visits to a bathhouse customary before weddings and after the birth of a child.
For travelers who like to immerse themselves in local culture, this is the perfect opportunity to experience centuries-old rituals firsthand. It's probably best for first-time visitors not to venture in unprepared. Upon entering the warm room, bathers are encouraged to lay on heated marble tiles, where the body gradually relaxes as it acclimatises to the elevated temperature. The scrubbing involves the use of a special mitt or kese. Often lasting about 40 minutes, this is an intimate experience designed to remove dead skin cells, promote circulation ,and also encourage spiritual purification.
Afterwards, bathers move to the cool room and cover up, and you'll often find groups of friends and families cooling down as they chat over a cup of Turkish tea or coffee. If this age-old ritual sounds intriguing, here are some of our favorite hammams in Istanbul to visit.
