Arab Baths of Jaén, 11th century hammam in Jaén, Spain.
The Arab Baths are an underground bathing complex beneath the Palace of Villardompardo featuring multiple vaulted chambers with distinct temperature zones for bathing rituals. The complex contains several interconnected rooms connected by arches, arranged to support the functional flow of bathing practices.
The complex was built during Muslim rule around 1002 and functioned until 1246 when Ferdinand III conquered the city. After the conquest, the baths were converted into tanneries and faded from public awareness.
The bathhouse follows Islamic bathing traditions with separate rooms for cold, warm, and hot water connected by arched passages. Visitors moved through different temperature zones while following the ritual rhythm that these spaces created.
Access is through the Villardompardo Cultural Center, where entrance to the underground rooms is clearly marked. Bring a flashlight or use your phone's light, as some sections of the complex have limited natural illumination.
The complex remained hidden beneath a palace for four centuries and was rediscovered in 1913. It ranks as the largest known Andalusi bathhouse complex discovered in Spain.
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