Pamukkale and Hierapolis Travel Guide
Geological Wonder and Ancient Spa
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Pamukkale, ‘cotton-castle’ in Turkish, is a geological wonder that has intrigued people for thousands of years. Tumbling down the hillside the mineral-laden, thermal waters formed beautiful white travertines and stalactites and gradually the water became well known for its curative powers. 2000 years ago the Greeks built a spa here, Hierapolis, and today visitors can still bathe in the thermally-heated waters.
Over countless centuries a geological fault has allowed hot springs to pour mineral-laden water down the hillside at Pamukkale, depositing chalk and calcium carbonate as it evaporated and thus forming a stunning white waterfall of pools, terraces and stalactites.
The Greeks built a city, Hierapolis, above this wonder and with its temples and sacred pool it became rich. Today the travertines and city together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site and whilst the waterfalls are not as pristine as they once were a visit to explore the area should not be missed.
After seeing the travertines walk up to Hierapolis to see the spectacular Roman theatre, discover the deadly Plutonium - a spring still emitting toxic vapours – and explore the vast necropolis. Finally bathe in the Sacred Pool itself, famous for its hot waters and submerged Roman columns. Those interested in the ancient cities of the region may like to combine a visit to Pamukkale with one to Aphrodisias.
Attractions in Pamukkale and Hierapolis
In front of the Sacred Pool and housed in what were the old Roman baths is the notable Hierapolis Archaeology Museum which houses friezes, sarcophagi, statuary and other finds from the site.
Activities in Pamukkale and Hierapolis
Pamukkale and Hierapolis can be explored in around a day, though visitors with less time can do the area justice in a long half-day.
Relaxing
Most people visiting Pamukkale stay in the town at the foot of the travertines; it is wise to book in advance to avoid the many touts that meet arriving dolmuşes. A variety of accommodation styles are available and there is a wide choice of restaurants, though prices tend to be higher here than elsewhere.
Getting Around
Getting to Pamukkale involves a bus journey to the town of Denizli 20km away and then dolmuşes from there to Pamukkale itself. For those with restricted time hiring a car and driver makes good sense as this will reduce considerably the need for an extra night in Pamukkale itself (a driver guide will be able to explain the site, a further bonus). Once there the sites are easily explored on foot – hot work in summer months: bring water and sun protection.
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