The Sheikh Bahai Bath is one of the best and most beautiful tourist attractions in Isfahan, known not only as the most mysterious bathhouse in Isfahan but also recognized as one of the most mysterious bathhouses in the world.
The Sheikh Bahai Bath, which dates back to the Safavid era in Isfahan, boasts a very interesting and fascinating architecture and heating system. Every year, many domestic and international tourists visit Isfahan throughout the year to see the Sheikh Bahai Bath. If you are also interested in this mysterious bathhouse and want to learn more about it, do not miss the continuation of this article from Eligasht tourism magazine. In the following article, we intend to take a look at the complete history of the Sheikh Bahai Bath, a mysterious bathhouse in Isfahan.
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History of the Sheikh Bahai Bath
To review the history of the Sheikh Bahai Bath, we need to go back to the Safavid era in Iran. During the reign of Shah Abbas I, a scholar named Sheikh Bahai lived in Iran, proficient in various fields such as sciences, philosophy, logic, mathematics, architecture, and more. It was during this period that Shah Abbas I ordered this scholar to build a bathhouse in Isfahan. Sheikh Bahai, with his intelligence and abundant knowledge, succeeded in constructing one of the most mysterious and historical bathhouses in Iran.
Sheikh Bahai played a significant role in immortalizing Safavid-era architecture in the history of Iran. Many beautiful buildings and tourist attractions in Isfahan, including Ali Qapu Palace, Si-o-se-pol Bridge, Imam Mosque, and Khaju Bridge, are structures built by Sheikh Bahai during the Safavid rule. Although the architecture of all buildings constructed by Sheikh Bahai became renowned worldwide and were considered among the most beautiful works of his era, the Sheikh Bahai Bath managed to surpass all these structures and be recognized as the most fascinating creation of this scholar’s hands.
The Mystery Behind Sheikh Bahai Bath Heating
As you may know, public baths have been constructed in various governments and dynasties in Iran and have always been a part of our history and tourist attractions. But what sets Sheikh Bahai Bath apart from these baths and makes it recognized as one of the most important and intriguing baths in Iran?
In fact, the most distinguishing feature of Sheikh Bahai Bath from other baths built in Iran is the mystery surrounding its heating system. The heating system of Sheikh Bahai Bath is unlike other historical public baths in Iran and has a unique and very modern structure.
This structure has intrigued many scientists over the years, keeping the secret of its heating system alive. Unlike other historical baths, this bathhouse did not require multiple heated rooms and instead remained warm with just a small flame, which has since been extinguished due to various destructions. To this day, no scientist has been able to definitively declare what exactly causes Bahai bath house to heat up with just one flame.
Some scientists believe that the water tank of this bathhouse is made of gold, the most conductive metal in the world, which allows a small flame to heat the entire bathhouse. Others believe that biogases and essential oil distillates contributed to heating the bathhouse. However, none of these theories have been conclusively confirmed, and Sheikh Bahai Bath continues to be known as one of the world’s mysteries.
Location and Accessibility Bahai bath house
The location of Sheikh Bahai bath is in one of the best areas in Isfahan in terms of accessibility with public transportation. Individuals originating from Isfahan can utilize public transport such as buses and metro or travel to this tourist attraction by taxi. Additionally, they can drive to this area in their own vehicles to visit Sheikh Bahai Bath. However, it is recommended not to travel to this area with a personal vehicle on holidays and weekends due to high city traffic and lack of parking space.
Address: Isfahan, Abdolrazzaq Isfahani Street, Sheikh Bahai Alley, between Masjed Jame and Harounieh
Architecture of Sheikh Bahai Bath
Although Sheikh Bahai bathhouse was one of the most beautiful structures of the Safavid era and is considered one of the best representatives of this dynasty’s architecture, it should be noted that there is no architectural distinction between this bathhouse and other historical baths in Iran. This bathhouse was constructed with Iranian architects’ artistry and beautiful tilework. Separate sections for women and men were created in this bathhouse so that everyone could use the bathhouse throughout the day.
Various parts such as heated rooms and different pools can be observed in this bathhouse. In general, it can be said that the architecture and construction of this bathhouse are similar to other baths of the Safavid era, with the only interesting point being its astonishing heating system that warms the entire bathhouse with one flame.
Visiting Bahai bath house
Despite the fact that the architecture of this bathhouse was once considered one of the best representatives of Safavid architecture and this structure was in its best condition, unfortunately, due to numerous destructions that have taken place and lack of restoration, this mysterious and historical bathhouse has been ruined and it is not possible to visit the interior anymore. Nevertheless, many individuals still go to Isfahan to see its exterior or to gather more information about this bathhouse.
Because the mystery of heating the entire bathhouse with one flame has kept the name of this historical building alive. If you intend to visit the surrounding attractions of this bathhouse, such as Jameh Mosque of Isfahan, you can also take a look at the exterior of Sheikh Bahai Bath and unfortunately, its doors will be closed to you.
Visiting Isfahan’s Tourist Attractions with Eligasht
In this article, we became acquainted with one of the most mysterious and enigmatic tourist attractions in Isfahan, Sheikh Bahai Bath. This structure is now in ruins, and visiting its interior is not possible. However, many history enthusiasts and fans of historical buildings always show interest in visiting the exterior of this bathhouse and studying it. The architecture of this bathhouse was once known as one of the most beautiful architectural examples of the Safavid era.
But the main reason for the global fame of this bathhouse is the mystery of how it heats up with just a small flame, a secret that remains undiscovered. Many scientists have put forth various theories about the heating system of this bathhouse, but none have been able to provide a definitive answer. If you wish to familiarize yourself with other tourist attractions in Isfahan, local foods, souvenirs, and the best accommodations in this city and plan your trip, be sure not to miss out on other articles by Eli Gasht. We thank you for entrusting us with your valuable time once again.
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FAQ
Where is Bahai bath house located?
Sheikh Bahai Bath is one of the tourist attractions and most mysterious historical baths in Isfahan, located on Abdolrazzaq Isfahani Street, Sheikh Bahai Alley, between Masjed Jameh and Harounieh.
What is the secret behind the heating system of Sheikh Bahai Bath?
The heating system of Sheikh Bahai Bath is highly unique, maintaining the entire bathhouse warm with just one small flame. There are various theories about this, unfortunately, none of which have been definitively confirmed.
Is it possible to visit Sheikh Bahai Bath?
Despite the mysterious heating system of Sheikh Bahai Bath that has brought it global fame, the building has been in ruins and abandoned for years, making it impossible to visit.
What is the historical significance of Sheikh Bahai Bath?
The architecture of Sheikh Bahai Bath was once considered one of the most beautiful examples of Safavid-era architecture in Isfahan, adding to its historical importance.
What role did Sheikh Bahai play in the history of Isfahan, and how does it relate to the bathhouse?
Sheikh Bahai was a prominent figure in Safavid-era Isfahan, known for his contributions to architecture and engineering. The bathhouse named after him is believed to reflect his innovative approach to design and functionality.