People began bathing in natural hot springs thousands of years ago. This led to the development of public bathhouses which remain popular the world over. Some people visit them to relax, while others go for their health. Public baths are different in every country, and some have very unique traditions. Some of the earliest known public baths originated inIndia more than 4,000 years ago.
In Europe, some of the earliest baths appeared in Greece around 500 BCE. Greeks washed together in large indoor bathtubs made of stone. The Greeks were also the first people to use showers in these rooms. After a long day’s work, both the rich and the poor could clean themselves while they chatted with their friends.
Public baths also became important for Greece’s neighbor, Rome. The Romans introduced bathhouses in what is now the country of Turkey. These baths were called hammams and were also where some important events like weddings or meetings were held. Today, visiting hammams is still part of many Turkish people’s daily routine. Tourists around the world also like to pay a visit and experience this ancient practice.
