Hammam-e Ali Gholi Agha Bath House (built 18th century)

Hammam-e Ali Gholi Agha Bath House (built 18th century)

Bath houses have played an important ritual role in Islam since the

earliest times, as cleanliness is an essential prerequisite of

religious activities. "Minor ablutions" must be performed before each

of the five daily prayers, and "major ablutions" are de rigeur after

disease, sexual intercourse, and other defilements. The Hammam thus

came to serve a pivotal role in the daily lives of Iranian Muslims. As

both men and women gathered there daily (at separate times), it became

a space of social gathering as well. Services rendered there might

also include massages and hair cuts, including full-body despoliation

for women to comply with Islamic hygienic practice.

Most hammams were located in densely populated areas near the local

bazaar. Often they were constructed on the grounds of madrasas or

hospitals supported by a waqf (endowment for financing religious

institutions). In present times, the use of hammam has fallen off

markedly as indoor plumbing became widely available. Many hammam in

Iran are no longer used, or have been converted to museums or even

restaurants.

Thanks for comments.

Very impressive , amazing control over internal lighting, great composition and of fine DOF and details, wishing you all of the best.

Hi my friend, excellent perspective and quite interesting place , great just great, congrats and saludos // Salvador 

What an interesting space and a very nice photo.  I think however, it could have benefited from straightening it out, especially with the inherent emphasis on symmetry.

Very well done shot and very interesting explanation. Thanks for sharing.

Great shot and documentary. Regards, --George