What Happens in a Turkish Bath?

A Turkish bath, also known as a hamam, is a traditional form of bathing that originated in the Ottoman Empire. It is a place where people go to relax, cleanse, and rejuvenate their bodies.

In a Turkish bath, visitors typically follow a set sequence of steps that includes:

Undressing and wrapping themselves in a towel or cloth.

Entering the hot room is heated by a central fireplace or furnace. This room is usually adorned with ornate tiles and features a marble slab or platform called a gobektasi, where visitors lie down to relax.

Sweating and relaxing in the hot room for a period of time.

Receiving a massage or scrub from a therapist, who uses soap and a special scrubbing glove called a kese to exfoliate and cleanse the skin.

Rinsing off in the cold room or pool is usually cooler than in the hot room.

Dressing and resting in the relaxation area, where visitors can enjoy refreshments and relax after the bath.

Turkish baths are a popular tourist attraction in Turkey and other parts of the Middle East, and many people visit them for their cultural and historical significance and therapeutic benefits. If you are interested in experiencing a Turkish bath, you can find them at many hotels and spas in Turkey and other parts of the region. It is also possible to book private sessions with a therapist.