Arab baths
Banys Arabs, Baños Arabes
Spain, Majorca
The Arab baths are a uniquely preserved monument of Arab architecture from the time when Palma de Mallorca was the Arab Madina Mayurka. They are in the gardens of Fontirocha's house. It is assumed that the baths were built in the 11th century and could have been part of the estate of a noble Muslim.
Only the square central hall, intended for hot baths, has survived. Its semicircular vault is supported by 12 columns with horseshoe arches. Dormer windows are made in the brick dome. Remains of a chimney and plumbing can be seen in the hall. Water and steam circulated through holes in the double floor. A narrow side corridor led to a dressing room, which, in turn, led to a cool dressing room, after which one could get into the hammam itself. The last hall was the hall for cold baths, of which nothing has been preserved.