Sultan’s Hammam (Hama)

The Sultan’s Bathhouse stands as one of Hama’s oldest Ottoman hammams, constructed in the 16th century. It was intentionally named in homage to Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, as indicated by a commemorative inscription at its entrance. The bathhouse adheres to the classic Ottoman tripartite layout, comprising the Bayt al-Nar (heating section), the Bayt al-Wastani (warm room), and finally the Bayt al-Barrani (cold room). All sections are covered by domes perforated with hexagonal stars, allowing for the ingress of filtered light.
A particularly striking feature is a marble plaque bearing a “sunburst” motif (lines radiating from a circle), symbolizing the “honor of bathing.” This decorative element is notably rare among bathhouses in inland Syria. The hammam remained operational until 2010 when it was closed due to economic considerations.