Gaza: Efforts underway to rebuild 900-year-old bathhouse

This bathhouse is considered a testament to the rich history of bathhouses, having flourished under various civilizations, including the Ottoman period, and continuing into modern times.

by Mohammed Asad

Workers sort and arrange ancient stones during efforts to rebuild the 900-year-old Al-Samra Bathhouse, damaged by Israeli bombardment, in Gaza City’s Old City, Gaza on February 12, 2026. [Mohammed Asad/Middle East Monitor]

The ancient Al-Samra Bathhouse, a model bathhouse in the heart of Gaza’s Old City, was established 900 years ago.

This bathhouse is considered a testament to the rich history of bathhouses, having flourished under various civilizations, including the Ottoman period, and continuing into modern times.

It remains a popular destination, attracting many visitors not only for its tranquillity, but also for its role in pre-wedding rituals, customs, and as a place for grooms to bathe before their weddings.

It also offers massages and exposure to hot water of varying temperatures, all within a traditional setting, its walls constructed of marble and ancient stones.

Salim Al-Wazir, who has worked at and owned the bathhouse for 55 years, inheriting it from his ancestors, says that the place is deeply rooted in Palestinian history and remains present in people’s customs and visits.

However, the occupation seeks to destroy all historical sites on this land to uproot Palestinians, and has bombed it during the current war on Gaza.

Currently, with the support of the Palestinian Heritage Society in Bethlehem, which has been working to maintain, restore, and rebuild the bathhouse, the old stones are being sorted and arranged for reuse, and the clay ceilings are being reclaimed.

Pottery will be used to create a bathhouse in the same shape as the old model, so that it resembles the previous form.

Although there are difficulties in obtaining raw materials, with the efforts of Palestinians and experts in construction and antiquities, an attempt will be made to build it.

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