Hammam - arabic bath in Almería
Almería, with its rich history, has been deeply influenced by Arabic culture and heritage. During the Islamic rule of Al-Andalus, which lasted for centuries, Almería thrived as an important cultural and economic center. Here are some key points about Arabic history in Almería:
Islamic Rule: Almería was part of the Islamic caliphate of Al-Andalus from the 8th to the 15th century. The city flourished under Moorish rule, with its strategic location along the Mediterranean coast contributing to its prosperity.
Architecture: The influence of Arabic architecture is evident in Almería's historic buildings and landmarks. The Alcazaba, a fortified complex dating back to the 10th century, is one of the city's most iconic landmarks and a testament to its Moorish heritage. The intricate designs, arches, and decorative motifs found in the Alcazaba reflect the architectural style of the Moors.
Trade and Commerce: During the Islamic period, Almería served as a bustling port city, facilitating trade and commerce between the Mediterranean region and North Africa. The city's strategic location made it a vital hub for maritime trade, contributing to its economic prosperity.
Agriculture and Innovation: The Moors introduced advanced agricultural techniques to Almería, transforming the region into a fertile oasis. They implemented irrigation systems, terraced farming, and introduced new crops such as citrus fruits, almonds, and grapes, which continue to be important to the region's economy today.
Language and Culture: Arabic language and culture left a lasting imprint on Almería's identity. Many Arabic words and place names are still used in the region today, reflecting the linguistic and cultural legacy of Al-Andalus. Additionally, Almería's culinary traditions, music, and arts bear traces of Moorish influence.
Overall, the Arabic history of Almería is a vital part of its identity, shaping its architecture, economy, and cultural heritage.
In Almería city, you can visit
two Arabic bath venues
1. Hammam Almeraya
This small but authentic place is an oasis for relaxation and disconnection. At Hammam Almeraya, they offer a millennia-old tradition by recreating the ancient concept of the hammam bath, focused on caring for both body and mind.
An exotic environment with soft lighting, contrasting temperatures, steam, essences and oils, unique aromas, and music. Consequently, all of these elements combine to create a powerful balm for health and relaxation.
Offer: Contrast Pools, Steam Room, Aromatherapy and Massage, Teahouse (Tetería)
Price: Bath experience without massage (1,5h) 20 EUR/person/1,5h
Opening time: Wednesday-Sunday (5 shifts per day starting a 11am, 1pm, 4pm, 6pm and 8pm)
2. Hotel Aire Arabic bath
In the heart of Almería's Old Town, on the historic square once bustling with the Arabic souk, AIRE revives the ancient tradition of Roman baths with a modern twist. Prepare for an unforgettable experience as you embark on a journey of sensations, culminating in total relaxation.
Offer: Contrast Pools (hot, warm, cold), Steam Room, Jacuzzi, Saltwater Pool, Aromatherapy, Massage, Tea & Water included
Price: Bath experience without a massage (1,5h) 45 EUR/person/1,5h
Opening time: Monday to Sunday starting from 10am to 10pm
Steam Room (Hararet)
- Higher humidity at a lower temperature than the Finnish sauna. Visitors of Arabic bath should start by spending time in the steam room. This room is filled with hot, humid air generated by water evaporating on heated stones.
- Benefits: Steam produces a balanced dilation of pores, eliminating toxins and impurities. As pores dilate and steam enters, the skin is cleansed, leaving it soft. Moistening the airways has an expectorant effect, especially useful in colds, coughs, sinusitis, and other respiratory conditions. The cardiorespiratory system increases its capacity for oxygen exchange and ventilation, resulting in benefits for recovery from exertion.
Contrast Pools Benefits (hot & cold pool)
- Ideal for relaxing muscles and activating the circulatory system.
- Hot Pool (Ilıklık): After spending time in the steam room, bathers move to the hot pool. Hot water dilates the superficial blood vessels, promoting circulation
- Cold Pool (Sogukluk): Following the hot pool, bathers may immerse themselves in a cold pool. This pool contains cold water and is intended to cool down the body after exposure to the heat of the steam room and hot pool. It also helps to close the pores and invigorate the skin. Cold water enhances internal blood flow. As a result, it reduces muscle pain, eliminates toxins and waste, increases oxygen in circulation, and enhances relaxation.
- The body, when subjected to this contrast, accelerates its metabolic functions, consequently increasing ventilation, speeding up blood circulation, and stimulating the nervous and hormonal systems, resulting in a significant overall improvement in health and well-being.
Aromatherapy
- Aromatherapy is a specific branch of herbal medicine that uses concentrated plant oils called essential oils to enhance physical and emotional health.
- Unlike herbs used in herbal medicine, essential oils are not ingested but are inhaled or applied to the skin. It is used in the hammam, steam room, and massage.
Overall, the hammam bath provides a holistic experience that promotes physical relaxation, mental well-being, and spiritual rejuvenation through the combination of heat, water, massage, and relaxation.