Traditions

HAMMAMS
The tradition of taking his shower in a public place, is known in Syria since many centuries. In fact, it dates back to the Roman epoch. The Islamic culture gave big interest to this tradition and bath houses (also called "Hammams") became centers for social activities, public entertainment and health care. They also became an integral part of castles and military fortifications. In wedding ceremonies, the Hammam was the place where the bride get dressed and graced by her female friends and family members, before to join her fiancee.

In Syria, the Hammams exist in almost all towns and cities. Like all oriental buildings, the design is made with several rooms and halls. The main hall is called "Al-Qa'a" where clients meet, talk, take soft drinks and smoke Narjileh. At the intermediate hall (Al-Wastani) clients change their clothes and relax in a moderate temperature after being exposed to the hot water. The high walls are covered by vast ornamented domes. The windows are made with colorful glasses and are placed at variable positions depending on the room's type.

This variation insures a healthy and pleasant atmosphere giving the visitor a different sensation as he pass from a hall to another. The most interesting Hammams can be found in Damascus and Aleppo, where artisans invested their talents in ornamenting them with marbles and arabesques.

The popularity of Hammams hasn't decreased in Syria and they are still visited by locals and foreigners who enjoy its relaxing atmosphere, away from the external turbulent life.

Most known Hammams are: Al-Nawfara, Al-Bakri, Al-Ward and Nour-Eddine. Other old beautiful examples can be seen in the Syrian citadels and palaces.