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Hamam Omerye: A Journey Through Time and Wellness

Experience the timeless tradition of Turkish bathing in a beautifully restored 14th-century hammam in Nicosia's old town, offering a unique journey of relaxation, rejuvenation, and cultural immersion.

4.5

Step into Hamam Omerye, a beautifully restored 14th-century bathhouse in the heart of Nicosia's old town, and prepare for a sensory journey that transcends mere relaxation. Originally a church, it was transformed into a hammam in 1571, blending Byzantine and Ottoman architectural styles. Today, it stands as a testament to Cyprus's rich history, offering a unique space for social gathering, body purification, and rejuvenation. Experience the warmth of the domed bathing area, the soothing sounds of running water, and the skilled hands of therapists offering traditional treatments. Indulge in a scrub with coffee, cinnamon, or black Moroccan soap, followed by a massage and aromatic tea, and Turkish delight. Hamam Omerye is more than just a spa; it's a cultural immersion, a chance to reconnect with yourself and the traditions of the past.

A brief summary to Hamam Omerye

  • Tuesday 10 am-8:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-8:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-8:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-8:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-8:30 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-8:30 pm

Local tips

  • Book your appointment in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure you secure your preferred time slot.
  • Visit during weekdays for a quieter and more relaxed experience.
  • Consider trying one of the full treatment packages for the best and most immersive hammam experience.
  • Arrive early to fully enjoy the tranquil ambiance and prepare for your treatment.
  • Be sure to try the traditional tea and Turkish delight offered after your treatment for a complete cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Eleftheria Square, a central landmark in Nicosia, head southeast towards Ledra Street. Walk straight along Ledra Street for approximately 10 minutes until you reach Platia Tillirias. Turn left onto Platia Tillirias, and Hamam Omerye will be on your left. The walk is straightforward and passes numerous shops and cafes.

  • Public Transport

    From any location in Nicosia, take bus number 1 or 2 towards the city center. Get off at the 'Platia Tillirias' stop, which is the closest to Hamam Omerye. Walk towards the square, and you will see Hamam Omerye at Square, Platia Tillirias 8. A single bus fare within Nicosia typically costs €1.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Hail a taxi from the street or use a ride-sharing app. Tell the driver you want to go to 'Hamam Omerye' at Square, Platia Tillirias 8. The ride from the city center should take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €5-€10 for a short taxi ride within the central Nicosia area.

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Discover more about Hamam Omerye

Hamam Omerye, nestled in the heart of Nicosia's historic old town, offers a unique and immersive experience that transcends the typical spa visit. This meticulously restored bathhouse, dating back to the 14th century, invites visitors to step back in time and indulge in the ancient traditions of hammam culture. Originally built as an Augustinian church dedicated to St. Mary, the site was transformed into a Turkish bathhouse in 1571 following the Ottoman conquest of Nicosia. Lala Mustafa Pasha, the Ottoman commander, dedicated the hammam to the Caliph Omar, hence the name 'Omerye.' Over the centuries, Hamam Omerye has served as a vital social and cultural hub, a place for gathering, purification, and relaxation. Unlike modern-day bathrooms, few homes in the past had bathing facilities, making hammams essential for sanitary needs. They were often the first buildings constructed by the Ottomans in a newly conquered city, highlighting their importance in daily life. The architecture of Hamam Omerye reflects a fascinating blend of Byzantine and Ottoman styles. The original church's Roman and Gothic influences are still visible, particularly in the main entrance. The interior features a warm, inviting space with an impressive dome, polygonal marble benches, and carved troughs from which the soothing sounds of running water descend. The star-shaped openings in the dome allow natural light to filter through, creating a serene and calming atmosphere. In 2005, Hamam Omerye received the Europa Nostra Award for its exceptional preservation of architectural heritage, a testament to the careful restoration efforts that have brought this historical site back to life. Today, it functions as both a historical monument and a modern spa, offering visitors a chance to experience the best of both worlds. A visit to Hamam Omerye is a sensory journey. As you enter, you're enveloped in a warm, humid air infused with the subtle scent of aromatic oils. You'll be provided with a traditional 'pestemal,' a light cotton towel, to wear during your experience. The bathing chambers themselves are designed for relaxation, with marble benches inviting you to recline and unwind. The traditional hammam ritual involves a series of steps designed to cleanse and rejuvenate both body and mind. It begins with a period of relaxation in the warm room, allowing your pores to open and toxins to be released. This is followed by an exfoliating scrub, using traditional ingredients like coffee, cinnamon, crushed olive pits, or black Moroccan soap, to remove dead skin cells and leave your skin feeling smooth and refreshed. After the scrub, you can indulge in a massage, choosing from a variety of traditional techniques. Skilled therapists use aromatic oils and gentle pressure to ease tension and promote relaxation. The experience culminates with a refreshing rinse of hot and cold water, followed by a period of rest in a private cabin, where you can enjoy aromatic tea and Turkish delight. Hamam Omerye offers a range of packages and services to suit different preferences and needs. From simple bath use to elaborate treatments that combine scrubs, massages, and facials, there's something for everyone. Some packages even include wine and bites for a truly indulgent experience. Beyond the physical benefits, Hamam Omerye offers a unique opportunity to connect with Cypriot culture and history. It's a place where the past and present intertwine, where ancient traditions are kept alive, and where visitors can experience a sense of peace and tranquility in the heart of a bustling city. Whether you're seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, or a cultural immersion, Hamam Omerye is a destination that will leave you feeling refreshed, renewed, and deeply connected to the rich heritage of Cyprus. Located near other historical landmarks such as the Omerye Mosque and the Archbishop's Palace, Hamam Omerye is easily accessible and makes for a perfect addition to any Nicosia itinerary. It's a place where you can escape the stresses of modern life and rediscover the simple pleasures of self-care and relaxation. The experience is often described as something straight out of "One Thousand and One Nights," a magical journey that awakens the senses, relaxes the body, and soothes the soul. It's a testament to the enduring power of ancient traditions and the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations.

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