Underground Bath of Baku, Historic hammam near fortress gates in Icherisheher, Azerbaijan
The Underground Bath of Baku is a subterranean bathhouse in the old city with two octagonal chambers topped by domes that allow light through small openings. The stone walls and mortar create a system that helps keep the space at the right temperature.
The structure was built and used over many centuries, with objects found from the 1700s through 1900s showing continuous use. In recent years, specialists restored it carefully to preserve what remained of the original building.
This bathhouse reflects how local people bathed and spent time together, with separate sections that visitors can still recognize in the layout. The space shows daily life and social customs that shaped the community over centuries.
The bath sits in the old walled city and is easy to find on foot while exploring the narrow streets and alleys. Wearing comfortable walking shoes helps since you descend stairs to reach the underground chambers.
This bath uses a clever natural cooling and heating system without any modern equipment, relying instead on how the stone and underground location work together. The small holes in the domes let in just enough light and air to keep the space comfortable throughout the day.
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