Hammam is valued all over the world and is considered one of the classic types of baths. It is impossible to focus only on the Turkish version, as all baths in Eastern countries are quite similar to each other – Morocco, Syria, Iraq, and other regions. This is an Eastern culture that has long gone beyond the ordinary understanding of wellness.
History
Today, it is extremely difficult to determine the true origins of this tradition. In the hot climate of the city of Pergamon (modern-day Turkey), frequent hygiene procedures were considered a tradition, but at that time they consisted only of pouring cold water over the body. After the annexation of the Levant, Eastern inhabitants became familiar with hot steam and its beneficial effects on the body.
According to religious beliefs, immersing oneself in a container filled with water was considered unnatural, which is why pouring cold water remained an important part of the ritual. The Prophet of Islam personally experienced the Turkish bath – hammam – and highly appreciated its benefits, stating that it contributed to increased fertility.
Traditions
In the East, people prefer to celebrate all important life events in the hammam, such as the birth of a child, the appearance of the first tooth, fulfilled wishes, circumcision, returning from military service, and weddings. Such celebrations open the doors of the steam room to everyone who wishes to attend.
A sacred ritual is the bathing of the bride. The groom’s relatives present gifts to the bride, while during the celebration guests sing songs wishing her a happy and successful marriage. These traditions have survived to this day.
The Roman-style steam bath is an integral part of people’s lives, regardless of their social status or income level. Legal regulations ensure compliance with cleanliness standards and visitor comfort.
Customs associated with visiting the hammam
A spa salon offering hammam services to its clients strictly follows five main stages: warming up the body, rhythmic massage, removing dead skin cells with a rough glove, using olive soap and washing with water, followed by relaxation. Special attendants help visitors complete all stages effectively and accompany them throughout the entire process.
The visitor leaves personal belongings in the changing room. Then the specialists help them wrap themselves in cotton towels and guide them to the steam room. After the body is warmed up, a massage, cleansing, and peeling session are performed. In terms of muscle impact, the procedure can be compared to a high-intensity physical workout.