A Roman bathhouse that was built more than 2,000 years ago is still welcoming visitors to its warm waters today.
Hammam Essalihine in Khenchela, Algeria, dates back to the time of the Flavian Dynasty and its waters are touted as having ‘therapeutic benefits’.
It is nestled at the bottom of a valley surrounded by mountain forests with the warm 70C waters coming from one of Algeria’s hundreds of hot springs.
Hammam Essalihine in Khenchela, Algeria, a Roman bathhouse that was built more than 2,000 years ago
Despite its remote location it records up to 700,000 visitors a year. They come to bathe in the pleasant waters, rich in vitamins and minerals, and to take in the stunning surroundings.
Inside the hammam there are two pools, one rectangular and one circular.
Each pool is over eight meters in diameter and 1.45 metres deep.
The hammam also offers spa treatments including relaxation treatments, massages and hydrotherapy sessions.
The bathhouse has managed to survive fatal earthquakes, political instability, economic struggles and even war.
Despite its remote location, it records up to 700,000 visitors a year who come to bathe in the pleasant waters, rich in vitamins and minerals
Inside the hammam, there are two pools, one rectangular and one circular
During the time of the Roman Empire going to a bathhouse was a daily activity – a past-time that has clearly endured.
As the empire spread, bathhouses sprung up across Europe and North Africa.
The Romans believed that bathing had a host of health benefits and could help relieve the symptoms of rheumatic, dermatological and respiratory diseases.
