Legend of Kılıç Ali Paşa
In the 16th century, Kılıç (the Sword) Ali Paşa was one of the greatest admirals in Ottoman history. Born in Calabria, southern Italy as Giovanni Dionigi Galeni, Kılıç Ali Paşa was captured by one of the captains of Ottoman navy and was forced to serve as a galley slave in his youth. As an oar slave, he participated in many battles and within a few years, he converted to Muslim, changing his name to Uluç Ali. Since he had shown great skill and performance in many significant battles, this success soon enabled him to become the captain and owner of a galley. He gained a reputation as one of the boldest captains in the Mediterranean and due to his achievements in the battles, the administration of some islands and Aegean Sea was awarded to him. He continued to rise in the ranks and Sultan Selim II appointed him as the governor (beylerbeyi) of Algiers.
The milestone of his career was the battle of Lepanto in 1571, after which he was given the honorary title of Kılıç (“Sword”) and appointed as Kaptan-ı Derya (The Chief Admiral). He was subsequently known as Kılıç Ali Paşa and his name can be observed in the literature under several different names. While in Italy, he was referred to as Occhiali, Miguel de Cervantes called him Uchali in chapter XXXIX of his Don Quixote de la Mancha
Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı
Commissioned to the great architect Sinan by the famous Ottoman Admiral Kılıç Ali Paşa as part of the mosque and school complex, Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı was constructed in between 1578-1583 to serve the levends (marine forces in the Ottoman navy). Famous for its architectural lines and majestic dome, the Hamam is one of the symbolic buildings in Tophane, Istanbul’s harbor district.
Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı has opened after seven years of meticulous and intensive restoration, and endeavors to provide you with an experience to remember within its amazing historical atmosphere.
The Hamam Boutique: Derya
Situated outside the building, next to the entrance, Derya, our Hamam Boutique, offers a selection of goods and souvenirs representing the hamam culture.
Have a look at the classic cotton hamam wraps (peştamal), towels and bathrobes, sealed soaps, loofahs(lif), scrub mitts (kese), copper bowls (tas), metal cups (maşrapa), tombac ewers (ibrik), kirden, pattens, and many more fine detailed pieces which have been tastefully selected. You may also sip a glass of tea, coffee or some homemade lemonade before or after your experience at the Hamam and enjoy your own time within this mystical ambiance.
Special Events
At Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamamı, we would be pleased to welcome you for a variety of special events in different occasions. You may enjoy the most traditional rituals of the wedding ceremony; the Bridal Hamam (Gelin Hamamı) and Groom’s Hamam (Damat Hamamı) or visit us in groups and have fun with your colleagues and best friends for an immaculate journey.
source: http://kilicalipasahamami.com/about/
