From bakery to wellness haven: The story of Hammam Al Ándalus Granada
One of the rooms at Hammam Al Ándalus Granada
Today, we want to share an intriguing story about
our establishment in Granada.
You might be surprised to learn that the magical setting where you can now enjoy a relaxing bath, right in the heart of Santa Ana Street, was once home to a bread oven for centuries.
Hammam Al Ándalus Granada opened its doors
in 1998,
after restoring a 15th-century house in this Albaicín street.
For generations, bread was baked in that very space, making it a place steeped in history.
Why a bread oven?
The answer lies in history. In the mid-16th century, Granada went through turbulent times.
The conflicts shaking the city had a particular impact on
the Morisco community,
made up of Muslims who had been baptized after the arrival of the Catholic Monarchs.
Authorities sought to erase most of these communities’ cultural identity: banning the Arabic language,
imposing changes in clothing, and suppressing numerous rites and traditions.
Among these measures was the prohibition of using the public baths that existed in the city.
These facilities featured large rooms and boilers to heat water for the warmer chambers.
To prevent these spaces from falling into disuse, a new function was found for them: many were transformed into bread ovens.
Such was the case with the building that now houses Hammam Al Ándalus Granada.
The former bathhouse was converted into a bakery, making use of its infrastructure and keeping it active for centuries,
until it finally regained its original spirit as a place of gathering, well-being, and tradition.
