A hammam, also known as a Turkish bath, is a type of steam bath or a place of public bathing associated with the Islamic world. It is a prominent feature in the culture of the Muslim world and was inherited from the model of the Roman thermae. Hammams are used for relaxation and cleansing, and they differ slightly from traditional thermal spas. While both are profoundly relaxing and good for the skin, rather than using thermal waters, hammam treatments use hot steam to encourage a deep and invigorating cleanse. The first public bath was created by the Roman Empire more than 2000 years ago, and hammams, particularly in Morocco, evolved from their Roman origins to meet the needs of ritual purification according to Islam.
Some key features of a hammam include:
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Welcome and relaxation: A staff member or therapist welcomes guests to relax in a space called the iliklik. At the Spa of the Rockies, this is the Serenity Room, the place where treatment begins with a soothing foot ritual featuring freshly harvested mineral spring water.
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Hot steam: Hammam treatments use hot steam to encourage a deep and invigorating cleanse.
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Scrubbing and massage: During a hammam treatment, individuals experience intense scrubbing and massage.
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Purification: At the conclusion of a hammam treatment, individuals are said to be physically and spiritually purified.
Hammams can be found in various countries, including Morocco and Turkey, and some buildings have been turned into storage depots or factories, leading to neglect. Historically, privacy was discarded in favor of efficiency and cost, although there were separate rooms available for men and women. Today, many traditional bathing rooms have been turned into spas with an atmosphere of luxury, relaxation, and a place of calm.
