Turkish Bath at Cagaloglu Hamam

Overview

Çağaloğlu Hamamı is one of Istanbul's last surviving grand Ottoman bathhouses, built in 1741 and virtually unchanged since. Its marble-domed chambers provide an authentic Turkish bath experience.

Highlights

• Marble Hot Room (Sıcaklık): The central heated marble platform (göbektaşı) under a dome pierced with star-shaped glass openings.
• Historic Interior: Original 18th-century Ottoman architecture with carved marble basins and soaring domes.
• Complete Ritual: The full experience includes steam, vigorous scrub (kese), and foam massage.

History

Built in 1741 by Sultan Mahmud I, it was the last great hamam built in Istanbul's old city. The guest book reportedly includes signatures from Florence Nightingale, Kaiser Wilhelm II, and King Edward VIII.

Visitor Tips

• Separate Sections: Men's and women's sections operate simultaneously with identical facilities.
• Bring Only Essentials: Lockers are provided; leave valuables at your hotel.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.