Throughout history, bathing has meant both spiritual and physical purification as well as cleanliness. While traditional bath architecture is frequently encountered in Greek civilization, baths in the Roman-Byzantine period were given names such as Lavatrina and Balneya. This culture developed over time with Ottoman architecture and acquired the traditional Turkish bath style. In the Ottoman Empire, which ensured that the Turkish bath took its place in universal memory as a cultural heritage, this place not only met the need to wash, but also became an indispensable element of society by providing a socialization environment. Both the architectural texture of the baths and the bath culture they possess are quite effective in this. So much so that Turkish baths have become places that offer an extremely different experience to the uninitiated with their loincloths, washing bowls, navel stones and tellaks. We have compiled the best baths of Istanbul, which have been kept alive as a tradition from Ancient Rome to the Ottomans, for you.
Ayasofya Hurrem Sultan Hammam: Located in the Fatih region, this bath is the largest historical bath in Istanbul. Built by Mimar Sinan in the name of Hurrem Sultan, one of the most famous women in Ottoman history, the water of this bath historically comes from Istanbul's underground water resources. Here, you can surrender yourself to specially trained expert tellaks, masseurs and masseuses and enjoy Turkish baths.
Çinili Zeyrek Hammam: Built centuries ago by the Admiral Barbaros Hayreddin Pasha and located in the Fatih region, this bath was built by Mimar Sinan between 1530-1540. The wonderful time you will spend in this bath will also take you on a journey through Ottoman history.
Kılıç Ali Pasha Hammam: Built by Mimar Sinan by the Admiral Kılıç Ali Pasha and located in the Tophane district, this bath is one of the most beautiful structures remaining from the Ottoman Empire. The interior decoration of the bath is adorned with impressive tile workmanship, special designs in blue and white tones and ceiling ornaments. Today, its specially designed areas are still frequently visited by those who want to experience a traditional bath.
Historical Cağaloğlu Hammam: The last bathhouse built during the Ottoman period, Cağaloğlu Hamam is located in the historical Eminönü district. Portraits of Ottoman sultans greet you in the bathhouse built by Sultan Mahmut. Inside Cağaloğlu Hamam is Lokanta 1741, which won the Best New Restaurant award at the 19th Time Out Istanbul Food and Beverage Awards. After enjoying the bathhouse, you can feast on delicious Turkish food here.
Galatasaray Hammam: Located in the heart of Istanbul, on the historical streets of Beyoğlu, this bathhouse was built during the reign of Sultan Beyazıt II upon Gül Baba’s request to the sultan. Located in the Galatasaray Complex, the tomb of Gül Baba is also located next to the bathhouse. Guests who set out to experience the relaxing atmosphere of the bathhouse are greeted by a charming entrance decorated with a domed structure and elegant decorations. Inside, there is a large heat-carrying hub and a pool under the ceiling. Some famous Turkish TV series' bath scenes were also shot here.
Çemberlitaş Hammam: Built by Mimar Sinan during the reign of Ottoman Sultan Murat III, this bath is located on the historical peninsula and is one of Mimar Sinan's masterpieces. The bath, which fascinates those who see it with its large domes, decorations and the most beautiful examples of marble workmanship, is adorned with such elegant details that researchers, photographers and filmmakers approach this structure with passion and curiosity. Çemberlitaş Hamam opens its doors every morning at 06:00 and continues to serve until 00:00.
Historical Üsküdar Çinili Hammam: Located in Üsküdar on the Anatolian side, this bath was built in 1640 by order of Sultan IV. Mehmet and got its name from its fame with its tile decorations. The tiles on the entrance gate and interior of the bath are among the most unique examples reflecting the art and craft of the Ottoman period. This bathhouse will provide you with an unforgettable experience in Istanbul with both its historical texture and the services it offers.
If you want to discover the Istanbul bathhouses that fascinate with their history, you can stay in one of our houses located in Kadıköy, one of the most central locations in Istanbul, and you can visit www.jcozyhomes.com to examine our houses in detail.
We wish you a good holiday in advance.
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