Pamukkale and Hierapolis

Pamukkale and Hierapolis, located in southwestern Turkey, form a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site, blending natural wonders with ancient history.

Pamukkale, meaning “Cotton Castle” in Turkish, is renowned for its stunning white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters flowing down the hillside for thousands of years. These thermal waters, believed to have healing properties, have been a draw for visitors since ancient times.

Above the travertines lies the ancient city of Hierapolis, founded in the 2nd century BCE by the Attalid kings of Pergamon. It became a significant Greco-Roman city, thriving as a center of culture, religion, and healing due to its proximity to the hot springs. Hierapolis was known for its grand architecture, including a well-preserved theater, necropolis, and Temple of Apollo. The Plutonium, a cave emitting toxic gases, was regarded as a sacred site connected to the underworld.

During the Byzantine era, Hierapolis became an important Christian center, believed to be the burial site of St. Philip, one of Christ’s apostles. The city was eventually abandoned after a series of earthquakes but left behind remarkable ruins.

Today, Pamukkale and Hierapolis attract millions of visitors who marvel at the stunning travertines and explore the ancient city’s rich history, making it one of Turkey’s most iconic destinations.