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Ottoman Baths: A Glimpse into Paphos' Past

Explore the historic Ottoman Baths in Paphos, a cultural gem reflecting Cyprus' layered past and diverse Ottoman and Byzantine influences.

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The Ottoman Baths in Paphos, constructed in 1592 by Mehmet Bey Ebubekir, served as a crucial social and hygienic hub for Turkish and Greek Cypriots. Featuring a blend of Ottoman and Byzantine architecture, the baths were divided into reception, intermediate, and main bathing areas, offering a unique insight into the city's layered history.

A brief summary to Ottoman Baths

  • Minoos, Paphos, CY

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with a walk through Paphos Old Town (Ktima) and explore the Municipal Market, located near the baths.
  • Visit the Ottoman Baths in the morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds and have a more peaceful experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven stone surfaces within the baths.
  • Check out nearby attractions such as the Paphos Archaeological Museum, the Byzantine Museum, and the Ethnographic Museum to enrich your visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in Paphos Old Town (Ktima), the Ottoman Baths are easily accessible on foot. From the main square, head towards the Paphos Municipal Market. The baths are located just below Petraki Miltiadou street, near the market. The walk is short and offers a chance to explore the charming streets of the old town. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From Kato Paphos, take bus number 610 towards Karavella (Paphos Old Town). Get off at the bus stop closest to the Paphos Municipal Market. From there, walk down Petraki Miltiadou street; the Ottoman Baths will be nearby. A single bus ticket costs €2 during the day or €3 at night. A 24-hour ticket is available for €6.50.

  • Driving

    If driving, head towards Paphos Old Town (Ktima). Follow signs to the Paphos Municipal Market. There is a large parking area near the market where you can park your car. From the parking area, the Ottoman Baths are a short walk away. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €2-€4 for a few hours.

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Discover more about Ottoman Baths

The Ottoman Baths, also known as Hammam, stand as a testament to Paphos' diverse cultural influences. Built in 1592 by Mehmet Bey Ebubekir, the governor of Paphos, these baths quickly became an integral part of the community, serving both Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriot residents. The architecture is a captivating blend of Ottoman and Byzantine styles. The stone structure features a vaulted ceiling and is divided into three primary sections: the reception area, the intermediate area for undressing, and the main bathing area. Bathing in the Ottoman era was more than hygiene; it was a social ritual. The baths operated from early morning until early afternoon for women and children, with evening hours reserved for men. Visitors would relax in a cold lounge before moving to lukewarm and warm compartments to adjust to rising temperatures. The warm compartment, reaching 38°C – 40°C, featured an “umbilical stone” for qualified personnel to scrub and massage bathers. The baths remained in use until 1950 before falling into disrepair. Fortunately, a restoration project in the early 1990s, completed in 2015, transformed the hammam into a cultural center, preserving its historical integrity. Today, visitors can explore the restored Ottoman Baths and gain insight into the daily lives of people in Paphos centuries ago.

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