Hammam: The Ancient Spa

The hammam or Turkish Bath, an ancient middle Eastern variation of the traditional steam bath, is making a major comeback at international spas.

Similar to a sauna, the hammam offers much more from both a spiritual and holistic sense. The word hammam is derived from the Arabic word meaning heat, and in Arabic is sometimes generally applied to any bathroom. Originating in Arabia, the Turkish bath quickly spread to Western Europe by the Ottomans. In European countries the word hammam has since been used to describe hot springs or spa towns. According to ancient Islamic texts, the hammam promoted fertility, purity, and cleanliness. In ancient times, the hammam gained religious significance and was frequently annexed to mosques.

Early Origins

The first hammams consisted of three interconnected rooms modeled after the Greek-Roman baths. The first two rooms were sauna-like structures designed to induce sweating and can be compared to the Roman calidarium and tepidarium. Massages were typically given in one of these heated rooms.

The hammam's third room was used for cooling and rinsing. Here, drinks might be served and cubicles were available for napping. The ancient hammams, like the Roman baths, were used as social centers with separate rooms available for men and women.