Istanbul Attractions

Venue: Cemberlitas Hammam    When: Daily

The Cemberlitas Hammam in Istanbul was built in 1584 from a design by the legendary Turkish architect Sinan. This amazing man, born a Greek slave, was also responsible for the Suleymaniye Mosque and countless other architectural wonders across Turkey.

A jewel of 16th-century Ottoman architecture, Cemberlitas is still a fully-functioning Turkish bath catering for both men and women, and a favourite amongst locals. Stunningly crafted, each steam room is lit from the top by star-shaped holes in the domed roof.

Directly beneath the dome is an octagonal slab of marble heated from below by burning embers. Visitors lie on the slab, encircled by 12 smaller domes in a larger circle around the central dome. When the heat becomes unbearable, you move over to one of the smaller domed chambers to throw a pan of cold water over your body. The masseuse (or masseur depending on your sex) then comes over and pummels, soaps and scrubs your body - be prepared for serious exfoliation.