Famous bathing habits of historical figures

Many famous people in history have had strange and interesting bathing rituals. These customs not only offer a glimpse into the personal lives of these historical figures, but also reveal how baths have played an important role in human culture and our hygiene over the centuries. We have listed a few for you!

1. Cleopatra’s milk and honey baths

Cleopatra, the famous Egyptian queen, was known for her beauty and sophistication. According to old stories, she is said to have bathed regularly in milk. It was believed this would soften and rejuvenate her skin. She even went a step further and added honey and essential oils to her baths for extra luxury. In doing so, they created the best bathing experience!

2. Charlemagne and his love of baths

Charlemagne, the medieval ruler who led the Frankish Empire, was known for his love of bathing. He would bathe regularly in hot water, both for hygiene and relaxation. In fact, he was so dedicated to nice bathing that he even had thermal baths built in his palace in Aachen, where he often spent time enjoying the hot water.

3. Queen Victoria’s water therapy

Queen Victoria of the UK was a strong advocate of water therapy, a way of using water to promote health. She took daily baths, often of cold water, to strengthen her immune system and improve her overall well-being. She was an example to many, in fact, people at the time adopted her ways of water therapy.

4. Benjamin Franklin’s ‘air baths’

The American Benjamin Franklin was known for occasionally taking “air baths”. This involved sitting naked in his bedroom with the windows open to enjoy the fresh air while he did his morning activities. Franklin believed this promoted his health and vitality. We think it’s an interesting approach to taking a bath!

5. Marie Antoinette and her ‘Eau de la Reine’

The famous French queen Marie Antoinette was known for her love of luxury and beauty. She even created her own perfume called “Eau de la Reine,” which she used to perfume her bath water. This perfume included rose water and almond oil, and was considered one of her personal secrets for her charming appearance.

All these historical figures contributed in their own way to the evolution of bathing habits. Their preferences and rituals not only reflect the norms and values of their era, but also show how humanity has always attached importance to personal care, well-being and taking a nice bath. In the modern world, ‘taking a bath’ and hygiene are still just as important. As we look back at the bathing habits of historical figures, we see how bathing is not only a physical act, but also a cultural and personal aspect of our lives that has evolved over the centuries.