The benefits of the turkish towel are well known today, but what about their history?

These popular textiles can be found today in lovely boutiques, spas and fitness facilities around the globe but their origin dates back to the 14th century, long before they were the latest Instagram trend.

The Turkish towel or called the Peshtemal was the primary material used in the Hamam. The Hamam, known as a Turkish Bath were first built in the 14th century. They included hot steam rooms and cold water for bathing. The Peshtemal was the perfect towel for drying the body as it was super absorbent, quick drying and light weight. The women wrapped them under their armpits to stay modest while the men used the towels around their waist.

It wasn’t until the 17th century, when royals and their courtiers wanted the peshtemal with a more embellished designs, and hired weavers to create them, by hand, on a loom. The design and colors woven into the towel often indicated which region the people were from. This tradition continues today and is part of what makes enjoying the Turkish Towel or Peshtemal so wonderful; not only is it a trendy and functional lifestyle accessory, but it’s also a time honored element of Turkish culture and history.