Hammam Rome: what it is
The Hammam Rome, also known as a ‘Turkish bath’, offers much more than just a place to purify the body. It is a refuge for the mind and spirit, reflecting a rich tapestry of history, culture and community life. A traditional hammam is a marvel of architectural design, characterized by its intricate details and functional layout. Typically, the hammam consists of several key sections:
- The Entrance Hall: this is the area where visitors gather before entering the bathing area. It serves as a transitional space, allowing bathers to socialize and prepare for their cleansing ritual.
- The Warm Room: here, bathers begin to acclimate to the heat. This room is usually moderately warm and serves as a prelude to the hotter sections of the hammam.
- The Hot Room: the centerpiece of the hammam, this room is heated to a high temperature and features a central platform where bathers lie down to sweat and relax. The heat is generated by an intricate system of underfloor heating and hot air circulation.
- The Cooling Room: after the hot room, bathers move to the cooling room to gradually lower their body temperature. This area is often more serene and less ornate than the hot room, providing a peaceful space to unwind.
Rituals and practices
The hammam experience is deeply ritualistic, encompassing several stages that contribute to both physical and mental well-being. These stages typically include:
- Pre-Bathing Rituals: Bathers begin by relaxing in the warm room to open their pores. Some may use exfoliating gloves (kese) or soap to prepare for the deeper cleansing process.
- Scrubbing and Massaging: In the hot room, bathers receive vigorous scrubs and massages from attendants or perform these themselves. This exfoliation removes dead skin cells and stimulates circulation, leaving the skin refreshed and rejuvenated.
- Cleansing and Rinsing: After scrubbing, bathers are rinsed with warm water. This is often followed by the application of rich, aromatic soaps or oils, which further enhance the cleansing process.