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Public baths originated when most people in population centers did not have access to private bathing facilities. Though termed "public", they have often been restricted according to gender, religious affiliation, personal membership, and other criteria. In addition to their hygienic function, public baths have also been social meeting places.
Bathhouse, hamami, jjimjilbang, banya — no matter the term, the art of public bathing has been around for thousands of years across the globe.
Saunas, spas and baths have not only been spaces to get clean, they have also served as antidotes to cold weather, and as places to socialise with friends. From geothermal hot springs to prettily patterned hammams, here are 13 incredible public baths around the world.
Centuries later, the public bath is less popular than it has ever been, even in societies where communal bathing is still culturally significant.
Public baths began their life in ancient Greece around the 6th century BCE. The Greeks would bathe in hip baths which were centered around a circular room with columns and a domed roof known as a tholos. In these small sitz-baths, the bather would crouch down while an attendant would shower them with hot or cold water.
A guide to the world's best bathhouses, from saunas to jjimjilbangs. A quick-fire look at bathhouse culture around the world. By Kathryn RomeynMay 2, 2023 • 6 minutes read. KAI Poroto, Tokyo. Image: Courtesy of Hoshino Resorts.
The tradition of the public bath has since spread around the world, adapting to evolving cultures and social norms with differing customs and etiquette for each destination.