Veli Bej Bath in Budapest is a tranquil oasis, often overshadowed by the city’s more famous thermal baths like Szechenyi, Gellert or Rudas Bath. Dating back to the 16th century during the Ottoman Empire, the spa is named after Turkish governor Veli Bej and was established as a place for the local population to relax and rejuvenate.
The bath, owned and managed by the Order of Knights of the Hospital of Saint John (Knights Hospitallers) features the following bath facilities.
Veli Bej Bath Services
- a large octagonal hot-water thermal pool (dating back to the 16th century),
- 4 smaller thermal pools,
- a modern swimming pool,
- a Jacuzzi,
- a hydrotherapy bathtub.
The wellness area in Veli Bej Bath, Budapest includes:
- steam baths,
- several saunas,
- massage treatment services
Kindly note that Children under 14 are not allowed to enter Veli Bej spa.
The historical Ottoman Turkish bath is fully mixed / coed every day.
Opening Hours of Veli Bej Bath
Opening hours are subject to change (e.g. there may be a private event).
Veli Bej Bath is normally open every day
6:00 – 12:00 and 15:00 – 21:00
The bath is closed between 12 am and 3 pm every day and on national as well as religious holidays, like Christmas, Easter or Pentecost.
The History of Veli Bej Bath
The Veli Bej Bath in Budapest is one of the city’s oldest and most historically significant thermal baths, dating back to the 16th century during the Ottoman occupation of Hungary. Also known as Csaszar Bath (csaszar meaning ‘kaiser’ the Austrian emperor), Veli Bej was originally built in 1574 by the Ottomans, who were known for constructing thermal baths wherever they settled. The bath was named after its founder, Veli Bej, a high-ranking Turkish pasha.
Ottoman Origins:
The bath was constructed in the traditional Ottoman style, featuring a central domed hall with octagonal thermal pools. Like other Turkish baths of the period, it was designed to take advantage of Budapest’s rich thermal water resources, which had long been prized for their healing properties. The layout and architectural style of the bathhouse reflect the influence of Ottoman bathing culture, which emphasised ritual cleansing and relaxation.
18th and 19th Century Renovations:
After the end of Ottoman rule, Hungary, under Habsburg administration, began to integrate the Ottoman baths into its own spa culture. Veli Bej was incorporated into the Csaszar Bath Complex in the 18th century, which included several other pools and spa facilities. The bath underwent various renovations during the 19th century to maintain its functionality and cater to the growing popularity of thermal baths among the local population.
Count István Marczibányi, one of the greatest patrons of his time, bought the Császárfurdo in 1802, which also included the Turkish part, and began large-scale restoration and remodelling work. Count István Marczibányi donated the restored building to the Order of Mercy in 1806. A stone tablet with the inscription “Dedicated to the neglected patients 1806” was placed at the entrance.
20th Century Decline and Restoration:
By the 20th century, Veli Bej fell into disrepair, overshadowed by larger, more modern baths like Széchenyi and Gellért. It was closed for several decades before being carefully restored between 2001 and 2012. This restoration aimed to preserve its historical Ottoman features while integrating modern amenities, making it one of Budapest’s most beautiful and serene thermal baths.
By visiting the baths, you are also supporting the efforts of the owner of the baths, the Hospitaller Order of Saint John of God (Irgalmasrend).
Last updated: Sep 25, 2024
