The Chokek Hammam, located in the center of Ganja, stands as a magnificent testament to the architectural prowess of the 17th century. Built in 1606, the bathhouse was designed by the renowned architect Sheikh Bahauddin at the command of Shah Abbas, the Safavid ruler. Due to its royal patronage, the structure is often referred to as “Shah Abbas’s Bathhouse.”
The name “Chokek Hammam,” which translates to “Bathhouse in a Hollow,” reflects the clever design choice that contributed to its unique charm. The bathhouse was constructed in a natural depression to facilitate the flow of water, ensuring a constant and powerful supply.
A key feature of the Chokek Hammam is its traditional heating system, which relies on firewood to warm the premises. Beneath the structure, two steam boilers are housed in the basement, while water flows from the Shatir Canal and the Kyariza of Haji Bagir. Once heated, the steam is channeled through ceramic pipes embedded in the walls and beneath the floors, ensuring that every room, from the bathing areas to the very walls of the building, is evenly warmed. This intricate system of steam circulation keeps the bathhouse toasty in winter and refreshingly cool during the summer months.
The materials used in the construction of the bathhouse are typical of the era, featuring red bricks and a mixture of egg whites, clay, and lime. Chokek Hammam is crowned by two grand domes and a smaller one, with half-domes perched atop the larger ones. These half-domes functioned as natural ventilators, with ventilation pipes extending throughout the building’s walls, enhancing air circulation and maintaining a comfortable atmosphere year-round.
Inside, the bathhouse consists of two main halls, a changing room, and additional smaller rooms. The primary hall, with its central pool and fountain, served as a place for relaxation, while the smaller hall was reserved for bathing.
In recognition of its cultural significance, Chokek Hammam was designated as an internationally important cultural monument in 2002 and placed under the protection of UNESCO. The bathhouse underwent a comprehensive restoration in 2003.
