More than a bath, the history of the hammam is an amalgam of elements from Roman, Byzantine, and Central Asian bathing traditions and is inextricably tied to Islamic and Middle Eastern culture. While the concept of the hammam throughout the Middle East was very similar, the structure and decoration of the baths were often regionally specific.

In the early Islamic period, cleanliness and purification became religiously significant, integrating hygiene with the spiritual aspect of purification required for prayer. Without public plumbing in most homes, hammams were commonly located next to mosques and medinas.

From the 14th to the early 20th century, Ottoman architects perfected the art of hammam construction, designing sophisticated structures that were marvels of engineering and aesthetics across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. Beyond their hygienic function, hammams played a crucial role in social life as a gathering place for purification before prayer and catching up on the latest gossip.

THE DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE

Intricate geometric tile work, fountains, and high domed ceilings punctuated with small round glass windows allow natural light to permeate the steamy interior; arched doorways and wall niches for candles or lamps are functional elements while adding to the ambiance of the bathhouse. A large, heated marble platform or navel stone is at the heart of the design and used for bathers to receive massages or body scrubs. A fire tender stokes flames below the structure of the building to keep the floors warm and the water hot. Hammams are separated (or scheduled) by gender.

HAMMAMS TYPICALLY HAVE A SEQUENCE OF THREE MAIN ROOMS:

• The cold room is for undressing and relaxation.
• The warm room is used to adjust to the heat and initiate cleansing.
• The hot room is home to the central massage platform and is the hottest part of the bath.

THE MODERN INTERPRETATION

However, with the advent of advancements in plumbing, private bathrooms, and modern lifestyles, many of the hammam services have become obsolete, leading to a widespread decline of hammams. Despite this, many historic hammams continue to operate, catering to traditionalists and modern users looking for an authentic experience. The legacy of the hammam continues, embodying a rich history of cleanliness, community, and architectural beauty.

The epitome of cultural richness and holistic well-being of the ancient bathhouse has transcended time. The allure of communal bathing rituals bridges the past with the present. The rise of the wellness economy has created a bathhouse renaissance across the globe.

In a race to offer the newest and best amenities in residential buildings and resorts, architects and developers are drawn to the wow factor of hammams, incorporating this ancient feature and ritualistic design updated with moody lighting, modern amenities, and restorative treatments.