Going to a Turkish hamam (hah-mum; bath) on a regular basis is one of the region's oldest traditions. Baths are still popular in today's Turkey, especially in the countryside. Ritual cleansing is an essential part of the Muslim religion, and an important element of Turkish culture.
Turks brought the steam bath from Central Asia, blended it with the Roman bath culture they found here, and created the synthesis we call the Turkish bath. Turkish-style baths use heat and humidity to stimulate perspiration, followed by pouring cool water over the body and vigorous massage.

The Turkish bath was introduced to Europe by the ever-encroaching Ottoman Empire. Europeans loved this exotic experience, especially painters of turqueries (fantastical representations of imagined Turkish culture), who used the baths as an excuse to paint frolicking naked girls.
In reality, traditional Turkish baths were built for a more sedate function. Men and women used the baths on alternating days of the week, as only a few baths had separate facilities for both sexes; these baths (such as the Haseki Sultan Bath in Sultanahmet) were called double or twin baths.
Over time, baths became an integral part of everyday Turkish life. The hamam of the past was both health club and beauty parlor—like today's "wellness centers." Rub-downs with a raw-silk mitten, herbal therapy, and oil massage became popular treatments.
Baths were also a place for social interaction. Two centuries ago, a woman could ask for a divorce if her husband failed to finance her twice-weekly bath visits. The baths were a place where Muslim women could socialize outside of their homes. Here they could look for a suitable bride for their sons or celebrate the birth of a new child. Meanwhile, men met at the baths to mark circumcisions, religious festivals...and bachelor parties.
Turkish baths remain a part of the culture, especially in rural areas and in folk songs and proverbs. A common Turkish maxim—"He who enters a bath, sweats"—means that you should face the consequences of your actions.

If you have time, treat yourself to a Turkish bath. For details on what to expect, and recommended baths in Istanbul. Although most baths have become quite touristy, it's still an enjoyable way to experience Turkish culture. The bath is not for everyone. It's hot and humid, and you'll soon be dripping from head to toe. But, as the saying goes, he who enters a bath...sweats.