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Hammam Baths: A Journey Through Time

Explore Paphos' Ottoman past at the Hammam Baths, a cultural gem offering a glimpse into the island's rich history and social traditions.

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The Hammam Baths in Paphos offer a glimpse into the island's Ottoman past. Constructed in 1592, these baths served as a vital social and hygienic center, showcasing a blend of Ottoman and Byzantine architectural styles. Restored in 2015, the site now functions as a cultural center, inviting visitors to explore a unique piece of Paphos' history.

A brief summary to Hammam Baths

  • QCG9+XQW, Ayoras, Paphos, CY

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with a stroll through Paphos' old town, exploring the nearby market and enjoying the panoramic views from the restaurants above the baths.
  • Check the opening hours before you go, as they vary depending on the season and the Hammam is closed on public holidays.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven stone surfaces within the Hammam.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Hammam Baths are located in the old town of Paphos, near the municipal market. From most points in the old town, the baths are easily accessible on foot. Simply head towards the market area, and you'll find the Hammam Baths.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving from Kato Paphos (lower Paphos), take bus 610 from the harbor bus station to Karavella bus station in the old town. From Karavella bus station, the Hammam Baths are a short walk away. A single bus fare costs approximately €2. Alternatively, from central Paphos, take a local bus from one of the main bus stations (Harbour or Karavella) towards Ayoras. Look for the B6 route. A single fare typically costs around €1.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Paphos. A taxi from Kato Paphos to the old town will cost approximately €10-€15 during the day. Ensure the taxi is properly marked and agree on the fare or ensure the meter is running.

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Discover more about Hammam Baths

The Hammam Baths, also known as the Ottoman Baths or Turkish Baths, are located in the heart of Paphos' old town, near the municipal market. This historical site provides a fascinating glimpse into Cyprus' layered past, reflecting the influences of various cultures that have shaped the island over centuries. Constructed during the Ottoman period, likely in 1592 by Mehmet Bey Ebubekir, the governor of Paphos at the time, the baths served as a crucial social and hygienic center for the local Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot communities. The architecture is a unique blend of Ottoman and Byzantine styles, showcasing the island's diverse cultural heritage. 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 just hygiene; it was a social ritual, a chance to relax, socialize, and even conduct business. The baths were open at different times for women and children, and for men. The bathing process was elaborate, starting in a cold lounge, moving to a lukewarm compartment, and finally entering the warm compartment filled with steam and hot water. Qualified personnel would scrub and massage bathers on a raised platform. The baths remained in use until 1950 before falling into disrepair. Fortunately, the Municipality of Paphos, in cooperation with Turkish Cypriot properties and the Department of Antiquities of Cyprus, funded a restoration project in the early 1990s. The restoration, completed in 2015, transformed the hammam into a cultural center, preserving its historical integrity while providing a space for community engagement. Today, visitors can explore the restored Ottoman Baths and gain insight into the daily lives of people in Paphos centuries ago. While visiting the baths takes only ten to twenty minutes, it offers a worthwhile experience for those exploring the old town.

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