A traditional public bathhouse prevalent in Middle Eastern countries, known for its steam and communal bathing facilities.

Origin: The word 'حَمَّام' (hammam) originates from Classical Arabic, derived from the root ح م م (ḥ-m-m) meaning 'to heat' or 'to warm', which is indicative of the heated steam baths that are central to the hammam experience. Historical and Cultural Context: Hammams have been a staple of Middle Eastern and North African culture since the Umayyad Caliphate in the 7th century, serving both as a place for ritual purification and social gathering. They were integral to Islamic practices of cleanliness and social life. Evolution: Over time, the concept of hammams spread through the Ottoman Empire and into Europe, adapting to local cultures and climates. The Turkish bath, or 'hamam', is a direct descendant of this tradition, demonstrating a phonetic adaptation in the Turkish language. Modern Relevance: Today, hammams are enjoyed worldwide, especially as a luxury spa experience, though they still hold cultural significance in many Middle Eastern countries, where they remain a communal activity and a place for social interaction.

The architecture of a traditional hammam often includes a series of progressively hotter rooms, culminating in a steam-filled chamber, which can be likened to a sauna.