A Guide to Traditional Turkish Hammams

Before visiting a hammam, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you have an enjoyable experience. First, it’s important to know that the hammam is traditionally a gender-segregated space. Most hammams have separate sections for men and women, and visitors are expected to follow the dress code of each section. For women, this usually means wearing a bikini or two-piece swimsuit, and for men, it typically means wearing a towel or swim shorts.

It’s also important to bring your own supplies, including a towel, slippers, and a change of clothes. Many hammams provide these items for an additional fee, but bringing your own ensures that you have everything you need for a comfortable and hygienic experience.

What to Expect During a Hammam Visit

When you arrive at the hammam, you’ll be given a locker to store your belongings and a towel or pestemal (a traditional Turkish bath towel). You’ll then be led to the changing room, where you can change into your swimwear and wrap yourself in the towel or pestemal.

Once you’re ready, you’ll be escorted to the hot room, where you’ll sit or lie down on the heated marble slab. A hammam attendant, known as a tellak, will scrub your skin with a kese (a rough glove) and apply soap suds to your body using a special cloth known as a torba. This process is known as the “peeling” or “scrubbing” stage and is designed to remove dead skin cells and impurities from your skin.

After the peeling stage, you’ll move on to the washing stage. The tellak will rinse your body with warm water and lather you up with soap. You can also request additional services, such as a massage or a hair wash, for an additional fee.

After the washing stage, you can relax in the warm or hot room and enjoy the steamy and humid atmosphere. When you’re ready to cool off, you can head to the cold room or take a dip in the pool.

Where to Find Traditional Turkish Hammams

Traditional hammams can be found throughout Turkey, with many located in Istanbul, the country’s largest city. Some of the most famous hammams in Istanbul include the Cemberlitas Hammam, the Galatasaray Hammam, and the Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hamami. Other cities, such as Bursa and Antalya, also have several hammams worth visiting.

In Conclusion

Visiting a traditional Turkish hammam is an experience that shouldn’t be missed. Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind or want to experience a piece of Turkish culture, a hammam visit