Discover the History and Significance of Ottoman-era Balats

Balat (also spelled as Balaat or Valat) is a traditional Turkish bath that is typically found in Ottoman-era architecture. It is a large, domed room with a central pool of water, where bathers can soak and relax. The word "balat" comes from the Arabic language, and it means "bath" or "pool".

In a typical balat, the central pool of water is surrounded by marble or stone benches, and there may be additional pools or basins for different purposes, such as a warm water pool or a cool water pool. The walls and ceiling of the balat are often decorated with intricate tilework or frescoes, and the room may be heated by a fireplace or a stove.

Balats were an important part of Ottoman culture and were used not only for personal hygiene but also as social gathering places. They were often found in palaces, mosques, and other public buildings, and were reserved for the use of the ruling elite. Today, many historic balats have been preserved and are open to visitors as museums or tourist attractions.