Historic hammam in Northern Cyprus
Büyük Hamam — a historical Turkish bath in the old city of Nicosia (Lefkoşa), İplik Pazarı district. Today, the hamam functions as a bath while remaining an architectural landmark: the interior retains the classical three-section layout, and the entrance is located below street level.
In Northern Cyprus, in the old part of Nicosia, a historic hamam has been well preserved and recently restored.
Büyük Hamam in Nicosia
Buyuk Hamam, or the large hamam, is the oldest Turkish bath in the city, located in the İplik Pazarı district, built on the site of the 14th-century Church of Saint George de Pulen. The only external element remaining from the former church is the main entrance.
The building's foundation dates back to 1306–1309 (as a Lusignan church). After 1571, the structure was converted into a Turkish bath and became part of the city's social life.
Büyük Hamam is a notable example of the Ottoman period in Nicosia. The building was transformed into a Turkish bath between 1571 and 1590, during the early years of Ottoman rule on the island. The hamam was designed as a traditional complex with multiple domes; the main entrance was preserved largely unchanged, while an additional entrance was created at the rear.
Since the new building was constructed on the ruins of the previous one and the surrounding ground level rose over time, the hamam's door is now significantly below street level, so many people simply walk past it.
Büyük Hamam Today
The building was renovated in 2007–2008 while preserving all the original bath functions.
Today, the hamam consists of a three-stage traditional Turkish bath space: "Soyunmalık" (changing/relaxation area), "Ilıklık" (intermediate warm area), and "Sıcaklık" (main hot section). The hot section features a large dome with openings for light and a central massage platform. The changing area also retains some elements from the earlier construction, including large window sills.
In the hot section, guests warm up on the Göbek Taşı (heated marble slab), after which procedures (scrub and foam massage) take place in niches and separate rooms; the hamam also includes a steam room and private treatment rooms.
In 2019, the hamam was again closed for extensive restoration, completed in 2024.
After reopening, the hamam is positioned as a functioning traditional Turkish bath in Northern Cyprus and a tourist attraction. In addition to classic hamam procedures (scrub, foam), there are also SPA-style massages.
Hamam interior before the latest restoration.
Glossary of Terms
Hamam — a traditional Turkish bath with sequential heating and treatments (scrub, foam massage).
Evkaf — Administration of Cyprus Foundations (vakıfs), managing part of the cultural heritage and properties associated with vakıf assets.
Göbek Taşı — heated marble slab in the hamam's hot section, used for warming up.
Halvet — private rooms within the hamam for treatments.
Eyvans — niches/alcoves in the hot section where ritual stages and treatments can take place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Büyük Hamam located in Northern Cyprus?
The hamam is in the old city of Nicosia (Lefkoşa), İplik Pazarı–Korkut Efendi district. Address: Nicosia Walled City Neighborhood, Irfan Bey Street No:19.
What sections are inside the hamam?
Büyük Hamam has three sequential zones: changing/relaxation area (Soğukluk/"Soyunmalık"), intermediate warm zone (Ilıklık/"Ilıklık"), and hot section (Sıcaklık/"Sıcaklık") with central warming area and treatment spaces.
How can I contact Büyük Hamam for service inquiries?
You can refer to the official website.
What other attractions are in Nicosia?
In the northern part of the city, you can visit Selimiye Mosque, Büyük Han caravanserai, Arabahmet Pasha Mosque, Ottoman mansion Dervish Pasha, Haydar Pasha Mosque. There are also Venetian fortifications and gates, and the Venetian Column in the center.
What are the most interesting museums in Northern Cyprus?
The list is extensive — it is convenient to start with this selection: best museums of Northern Cyprus.
Are there Christian churches in Northern Cyprus?
Yes. In particular, the St. Andrew Monastery on the Karpas Peninsula and other churches — more details in this selection: Christian churches in Northern Cyprus.
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