Marrakech's Hammam Ziani: Thoroughly Cleansed, Oiled, and Rinsed Off!
In the heart of Marrakech's vibrant Medina, nestled amidst winding alleys and bustling souks, lies an unassuming building that houses a centuries-old tradition - Hammam Ziani. This hammam, hundreds of years old, offers a quintessential Moroccan experience that leaves visitors feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Upon arrival, visitors are ushered into a small, brightly lit changing room and ordered to disrobe. With a sense of anticipation, they are handed tiny paper g-strings and sent behind a curtain to change. The initial shock of public nudity quickly fades as the authenticity of the experience takes centre stage.
The traditional hammam treatment at Hammam Ziani begins with a hot steam bath, designed to open the pores and prepare the skin for the upcoming ghassoul body scrub. Ghassoul, a type of clay used in Moroccan hammams, is applied to the body with a scratchy exfoliating Hamam Mitt and African Black Soap, effectively removing dead skin cells and leaving the skin feeling smooth.
Following the invigorating ghassoul, visitors are treated to a full-body massage that includes every inch of their body, from the neck and face to the bum, armpits, and even between the toes. The massage at Hammam Ziani is generally reported as excellent, with high-quality massages that leave visitors feeling relaxed and refreshed. The hammam attendants are described as professional and respectful, contributing to a dignified and enjoyable experience.
The facilities at Hammam Ziani are clean and well-maintained, aligning with expectations for a traditional hammam experience. After the massage, visitors are led to a washroom for a final wash, a soothing ritual performed by a friendly and welcoming girl who makes visitors feel cosy and looked after.
The steam room at Hammam Ziani is so thick that one can barely see more than a foot in front of their face, adding to the immersive experience. During a later trip, the author was able to visit a public hammam with a group of work colleagues, further enhancing the shared sense of camaraderie and relaxation.
While Hammam Ziani offers a traditional and often satisfying hammam experience, visitor experiences can vary significantly. Some reviews highlight inconsistent service quality, with some visitors reporting a push for tips and a less satisfactory experience. However, for those seeking an authentic Moroccan hammam experience, Hammam Ziani remains a popular choice.
Hammam Ziani in Marrakech is open 7 days a week from 7am to 10pm, with prices starting from 50Dh. The address of Hammam Ziani is 14, Rue Riad Zitoune jdid, Marrakech Medina (next to Bahia Palace). Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning guest, Hammam Ziani promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling indescribably softer, more relaxed, and with zero tension in the back - much like the author did after their visit.
[1] It's essential to note that individual experiences may vary, and it's always a good idea to read reviews and do research before visiting any establishment.
Traveling to the heart of Marrakech's Medina, one can find Hammam Ziani, a centuries-old hammam offering a unique lifestyle experience, steeped in tradition and Moroccan culture. After the rejuvenating hammam treatment, one can return to their home-and-garden mileu, feeling refreshed and relaxed, with a sense of fashion-and-beauty pampering that lasts long after the visit.
