Let's get to know the baths!

Baths are very old structures and are mostly associated with Turkish culture in the world, and in this culture, baths are not just a place for bathing. They have become centers that can be used for socialization and health purposes.

The basis of the baths, which have an important place in Turkish culture even today, actually dates back to the Roman Empire. The oldest known bath is BC. It is thought to have been built in the 1st century.

Its architectural structure has changed considerably over time and it is possible to see the reflections of different cultures in it.

The Turks carried the bath traditions that started in Central Asia to Anatolia and left their mark on the Ottoman history. Many baths built during the Ottoman Empire are still intact and actively used today.

Some baths were built over hot water sources and self-heating feature was added. They are also used as spas. Hot water pools, cold water pools, clay, seaweed and mud massages, massages with fragrant foam, honey and various vegetable oils are among the features of the baths.

Baths are not only places for bathing as seen and thought, but also places used for rest, relaxation, beauty and health. We know that they were used as a socialization area in older dates.

It also hosts some traditions during socialization. Mothers who chose a bride for their son even used the baths for this purpose. It is the place where the bride is adorned before the wedding, and this custom is called "bridal bath."

Baths are also commercial places, they are operated and consist of different cabins with employees inside. These fields are as follows;

• locker places

• washing places

• steam bath area

• dressing areas

• massage area

• heating place

The women who work in the baths and wash the customers are called "natır". The men who work in the baths and wash the customers are also called "tellak".

The effects of baths in terms of health are as follows;

• With the relaxation and rest provided, stress is reduced.

• General body cleaning is carried out perfectly.

• Blood circulation accelerates.

• Sinus congestion caused by asthma, cold and allergic conditions is reduced.

• The skin is kept young and fresh.

• Steam baths are effective to purify the body from oil-storage toxins.

• During sweating, the skin is renewed.

• It has a healing property for joint pain.

Natır and tellak's duty is not only to wash the customer, they also have massage and scrubbing features if desired. It can be guaranteed that your cleaning will increase layer upon layer and you will feel lighter while scrubbing.

Despite the luxurious home life they have today and the comfort of hot water in the bathrooms, the baths, which are still used by a certain group, operate in all cities above a certain population and do not suffer from customer problems. It is also active in tourism-related activities.

Cleaning starts with the person himself and can be thought of as a reflection of the life he has. A clean life is a necessity for health.

Thank you for reading.