The building’s three-year, US$13 million restoration was closely monitored by heritage authorities and the end result is wonderful, retaining Sinan’s austere design but endowing it with an understated modern luxury.

There are separate baths for males and females, both with a handsome soğukluk (entrance vestibule) surrounded by wooden change cubicles.

Though relatively expensive, treatments are expert and the surrounds are exceptionally clean. The basic 35-minute treatment costs €85 and includes a scrub and soap massage, olive-oil soap and your personal kese (coarse cloth mitten used for exfoliation). In warm weather, a cafe and restaurant operate on the outdoor terrace .