With a decade-long career in the steam shower industry and a keenness for spas, luxury steam rooms are at the center of my livelihood. To my professional and personal delight, a recent trip to Morocco afforded me with the opportunity to experience a century-old tradition - a visit to the Hammam. Known in Eastern cultures by its Arabic name, the hammam is a communal bath house for societal use.
Hammam Culture
What I learned about the culture and heritage was amazing. Hammams are much more than just a bathing ritual. It is a sanctuary that serves as a place of ultimate relaxation, camaraderie and solace. This collective bathing experience is an unquestioned way of life that has existed for centuries. Although many Moroccans have bathing facilities at home, they may not have hot water or heaters, therefore a regular visit to the hammam is necessary. Whether they go for the cleansing steam or to socialize, a visit to the bath is a lengthy and delightful occurrence.
Hammams are spread throughout each Moroccan town. In accordance with the Islamic culture, there are separate hammams for men and women. The baths are usually side by side, the water for both heated by the same wood-fueled fire. In a very small town, a sole hammam might be shared by women and men, with designated hours or days for each gender. It is a widely known place with clearly designated social norms.
Hammam Etiquette
To visit a hammam, a small fee of approximately $0.50 is required. It’s advisable to bring your own bathing supplies, such as soap, washcloth, shampoo, conditioner, razor, and comb. A bucket and mat are also necessary.
If you need bathing supplies, products are available for purchase at any hammam. Using local products may enhance the authenticity of your hammam experience. And, you might discover a new product you can’t live without! I particularly enjoyed the olive oil soap that was provided to me for a mere two cents. The all-natural soap creates a creamy, luxurious lather for hair, face and body, and is excellent for exfoliating with a fiber mitt. Because it’s mild, natural and moisturizing, the soap won't dry your skin out
Rhassoul, a mineral rich clay, is sold to bathers at the hammam. The clay blends extremely well with water making its application to the face and skin a smooth and delightful experience. This high-quality clay comes from ancient deposits in the fertile Atlas Mountains of Morocco.
Argan oil is also provided for purchase. Harvested from the fruit of the Moroccan argan tree, this oil is rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids that the body requires. Used for hair, skin and nails, the oil is said to have restorative and age-defying effects.
Experiencing the Hammam for Yourself
Once inside the hammam, bathers can choose a room among the two or three connecting rooms with varying degrees of heat: very warm, hot, and extremely hot. Find a comfortable spot and fill your bucket(s) with water found in basins along the walls. Mark your space by placing your belongings around you.
Sit, relax and allow the heat to penetrate your skin and induce perspiration. After the heat begins to soften your skin, exfoliate with a cloth or kis (pronounced keys). Conduct your usual bathing routine, or incorporate new, local products.
Affinity and Cleanliness in the Hammam
The hammam, seen as a cultural common denominator among Moroccan women, promotes affinity amongst visitors. When someone leaves the hammam, bathers often voice a traditional blessing of “to the health of you and your bath" and “God give you health."
While relaxing, don’t forget to take in the culture around you. Socialize with local bathers to see the unadulterated side of their society. How you enjoy the hammam is your personal preference. Regardless of how you spend your time in the hammam, you will leave with soft, glowing skin and a refreshed, energized feeling. I hope to travel back again soon and continue to explore this fascinating way of life.