Damascus, Mar 11 (SANA) Syria abounds with rich heritage and archaeological sites that have witnessed the social life, customs, and traditions that people have embraced for hundreds, even thousands, of years. Among these living witnesses are the “Damascene baths,” which were not merely places for personal hygiene, but rather formed a traditional ritual that remains present to this day.
A Mamluk Witness and Unique Architectural Engineering
The history of Al-Ward Bath dates back to the Mamluk era, with an age of approximately 800 years. It was named after the “Al-Ward neighborhood” in which it is located, and is known as one of the ancient archaeological baths that still operate today.
Daas al-Samadi, one of the bath’s workers, told SANA English that the bath’s architecture is distinguished by its traditional division into three main sections: “Al-Barrani” (the outer section), “Al-Wastani” (the middle section), and “Al-Jawani” (the inner section). Local authentic materials such as brick, clay, and stone were used in its construction, adorned with distinctive decorations. Domes and ceiling openings crown its rooms, ensuring natural ventilation and lighting, reflecting a unique architectural taste that has preserved its authenticity through centuries.
More Than Cleanliness… Wedding Rituals and Social Gatherings
The Damascene bath was never just a place for cleanliness; rather, it was an essential part of social and cultural life. It served as a meeting place for neighborhood residents and a gathering spot for friends and family on special occasions such as holidays and weddings.
In the past, special rituals were held for men before weddings, where they would gather to celebrate the groom, enjoying water and games, then escorting him in a special procession to the wedding venue. As for women, they had designated days at the bath, where they would meet to celebrate the bride, bathing in rose water, singing and ululating, while the bride applied henna.
The bath also served as a place for “preparing brides,” where mothers would come to choose brides for their sons, reflecting the bath’s role as a gateway for social communication and building family relationships.
Al-Nator, Al-Tabea’, and Al-Mkayyes… A Traditional Work Hierarchy
The bath’s operation depends on a precise traditional system in which workers are distributed across specific roles to serve customers:
Al-Nator (The Attendant): Sits at the entrance, receives customers’ valuables, and handles payment upon exit.
Al-Tabea’ (The Follower): Follows the customer from the “Al-Barrani” section to “Al-Wastani” and then to “Al-Jawani,” providing soap, loofah, and towels upon entry and exit, and is responsible for attending to people’s needs.
Al-Mkayyes (The Masseur): Works inside the “Al-Jawani” section, where he performs the traditional “kayes” scrubbing service and provides massage according to the customer’s preference.
Regarding costs, information indicates that the price was previously “half a Syrian pound,” using simple tools such as soap and loofah.
2010 Restoration and Attracting Tourists
Al-Ward Bath has maintained its continuity through time and underwent a comprehensive restoration in 2010, during which the facades and stone elements were returned to their original state to preserve the archaeological character. As a result of this historical and cultural significance, the bath continues to attract visitors from Arab countries and abroad, who come to experience a unique blend of relaxation and immersion in the depths of authentic Damascene history.
Iman Al zuheiri/ Mazen
