O Kari Hammam Montorgueil

Text: Susie Hollands 

Karima Lasfar is doyenne of O KARI Hammam in the heart of Montorgueil, the pinnacle of years of her passionate and detailed research.  Brought up in Algeria before moving to France the ritual of the Hammam is indelibly linked to her culture and way of life.

Karima knowledgably explains the history; Hammams originated in the Roman Empire, where a high importance was attached to public bathing. Later, adopted by Byzantine and Arab cultures, they became a symbol of the l'art du vivre of Islamic civilisation and retain a central importance due to their role in the purification ritual (which usually takes place on a Thursday evening in preparation for Friday's prayer).  Hammam literally means "eau chaud" in Arabic.

Hammams' social and therapeutic roles are also of prime importance.  The Hamman arrived in France along with Magrehbian migration in the 19th century they now provides a place to socialise for those far from home.  Increasingly popular with people from all backgrounds Lasfar believes the experience is essential for well-being, a space where the women can relax and recharge. While many Hammam in Paris have alternate bathing days for male and female, OKARI is one of the very few reserved solely for women.

The space was finally chosen after years of searching - the underground cavern with vaulted ceilings is the perfect cocoon. The attendants will talk you through the procedure and apply a perfectionism to the entire process which clearly puts them in a different league to other Hammams in the city. 

OKARI Hammam will offer "un masque du visage au miel" to any VINGT Paris reader.

O'Kari Hammam
22 Rue Dussoubs - 75002 Paris
01 42 36 94 66