by Yael Adar
Turkish tiles, a domed roof inlaid with glass circles, and marble floors are what made the the Pahsa's Hammam the most magnificent bathhouse of the land, in its day.
Ahmad Pasha Al-Jazzar built it in 1781, apparently on top of an ancient bathhouse. This was also the largest Hammam in the country and part of a series of important civic buildings in the city.
There have been suggestions that Al-Jazzar himself was the architect and engineer who oversaw construction of both the bathhouse and the mosque that bears his name.
Like other bathhouses of the day, this was more than just a mere place where people went to went to bathe. This was an important meeting place, where people congregated to discuss the issues of the day, rest, and enjoy a meal.
Its location here in Akko, is indicative of the city’s importance – at the time. In fact – this was the larger of two bathhouses in the city. It continued to function until 1947, when it was damaged by the blast from the prison outbreak.
In 1954, the bathhouse was converted to a municipal folklore museum . In the 1990s, the museum was disbanded and now plans are underway for a new experiential museum that will replicate the bathing experience in the life of the Ottoman residents.
The Al-Pasha Bathhouse is located south of the citadel, near the Al-Jazzar mosque and entrance to the Knights' Halls.
Visiting Hours: October-March – Sunday-Thursday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Friday 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM, Saturday, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM. April-September - Sunday-Thursday 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM, Friday 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM, Saturday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Entry fees apply.