HISTORY111 - The History of Hotels
This blog is about the history of hotels, defined here as establishments that provide paid lodging on a short-term basis. The history of hotels stretches from ancient times, with modest accommodations, to the luxurious establishments of today. This article will explore how hotel accommodations have evolved over the centuries , from humble beginnings to today’s digital age. The evolution of hotels. (Expand to see detail) I will identify my principal references at the end. Ancient Times: The Origins of Lodging The concept of hospitality, meaning to offer shelter and comfort to travelers, existed in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt, where welcoming travelers was a cultural norm. Taverns provided rest and refreshments for merchants and pilgrims, while wealthy households offered lodging to travelers, reflecting a societal duty to care for strangers. In Ancient Greece, the concept of "xenia " (or guest-friendship) was deeply ingrained in s...