Leave for a few hours of the bustle of the city is one of the things that leads to the use of Arab Baths Hammam, in addition to the health benefits they provide. We invite you to read on to learn more about one of the best things you can do in Seville.
What are the Arab baths?
Arab Baths, also known as “hammam” or “Turkish bath hamam,” are relaxing steam baths. These baths not only relax the body but also exfoliate and cleanse the skin.
The term “Alfama” (in Portuguese) or “Alhama” (in Spanish) comes from the Arabic “Alhamma.” Thus, any of these names can validly refer to an Arab Bath. Many old buildings in Spain were used for this purpose, primarily in cities belonging to the peninsular Southeast, such as:
- The Arab Baths of Seville.
- In Valencia, a Mudejar-style building was built in 1313 adjacent to the palace of the admirals of Aragon, called the “Baths of the Admiral.”
- Also, the Arab Baths of Hernando de Zafra, located in Granada.
- Next to the river Darro are “The Bañuelo” and “Los Baños Árabes de Jaén.”
Why you should visit a Hammam in Seville? Benefits and advantages
Arab Bathing is considered a “sacred” act within the Islamic religion. It also offers significant benefits to the body, often being used as a therapeutic approach to conditions like anxiety.
In these Arab bathrooms, essences are commonly used to create a pleasant, tranquil environment, often accompanied by soft, soothing music. This combination of water, essences, and ambiance provides profound relaxation. Once you leave the Arab Bath, you’ll notice a distinct difference in your body, experiencing a sense of unique relaxation and wellness.
Circuits
The Arab bath experience typically follows three circuits:
- The warm pool: This is the first phase before moving on to other pools. Its function is to “release the body from stress and promote relaxation.” The body in contact with water facilitates neural and muscle disconnections, leading to a unique state of relaxation and wellbeing. Therefore, this pool is essential in starting the routine of the Arab bath to maximize its benefits for body and mind.
- Warm Pool: This pool has exfoliating properties as the warm water causes skin pores to open, allowing impurities to be removed. This process induces deep exfoliation, helping with conditions such as acne, dermatitis, and psoriasis. Regular use can lead to significant improvements in skin health.
- Cold Pools: Beneficial for the circulatory system, cold water tends to increase heart rate and stimulates proper functioning of the Central Nervous System. The contrast of hot and cold water acts as a therapeutic method, improving joint pain and enhancing muscle function.
Hot steam also generates necessary moisture to improve respiratory issues. Many users have reported benefits for conditions such as anxiety, stress, panic, and hyperactivity from their experiences at the Arab Baths. Pregnant women should take special care and consult with their physician regarding the risks and benefits of these baths.
Sessions typically last an hour and a half to two hours, allowing you to fully enjoy this unique experience. The duration may vary if you opt for additional treatments or massages.
Explosion premises in the Jewish quarter of Santa Cruz in Seville
In the 17th century, Arab baths in Seville declined, but recent efforts have led to a revival of this traditional practice. Aire de Sevilla has emerged to address the absence of Arab baths in the area, serving as a tranquil escape from the daily routines that generate stress.
This experience has become an integral part of the city’s history, featuring saltwater baths, living jets, and Hammam. The Arab baths in Seville offer various massage sessions of differing durations according to individual preferences. Additionally, they provide several relaxation treatments, exfoliation, aromatherapy, and even chocolate therapy.
Best Arab baths in Seville
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Aire de Sevilla: Located in the city center, Aire de Sevilla offers top-notch Arab bath services. You will find an ambiance of relaxation and wellbeing, supported by a professional staff. The historic facilities provide a unique experience for those seeking a combination of water therapy and the health benefits for both body and mind. We recommend attending a session of over an hour and a half to two hours. The atmosphere features soothing incense, natural essences, tranquil music, and the calming sound of water. The facilities include a saltwater pool, a thousand jets, a hammam, and various water temperature options typical of Arabic Baths.
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Medina Aljarafe: This establishment offers some of the best Arab bath services in Sevilla, featuring a thermal circuit and a relaxation room where massages are performed. The environment is tailored for relaxation, making it a must-visit option for anyone interested in experiencing an Arab Bath.
- Hammam Sevilla Hamman A the Ándalus: One of the most famous baths in Seville, known for its incredible facilities, reasonable prices, and various body treatments. Among the therapies offered are:
- Treatment 1: Skin Cleaning: This involves deep cleaning using water vapor to increase sweating, thus oxygenating the skin and eliminating harmful free radicals that contribute to aging.
- Treatment 2: Kessa: This innovative massage, originating from Arabic tradition, helps cleanse the body. The kessa promotes the removal of impurities and dead skin cells while stimulating circulation and enhancing cellular activity.
Tips and information of interest for visiting an Arab bath in Seville
Among the advice for visiting an Arab Bath, the most crucial is to inform the staff of any medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart problems. It is also essential to notify them if you are pregnant.
Choose the type of therapy you wish to perform and follow the establishment’s protocols. By adhering to these guidelines, you can enjoy a unique moment of relaxation and foster a state of wellbeing that you won’t want to leave.