Pamukkale is a natural site found in the Denizli province of western Turkey and attracts more than 2 million visitors every year. It also houses the ancient city of Hierapolis that has some remains that can still be visited such as the ancient theater, the gymnasium, the mausoleum and the church of St. Philip, the central bath, the sanctuary of Pluto, the temple of Apollo.
This site is known for its hot springs and it is believed that it is very beneficial for human skin. In addition, stone and metal fountains abounded in the city, so stone carving and weaving developed rapidly.
The city Hierapolis was founded by the king of the kingdom of Pergamum Eumenes II in the 2nd century BC. It was dedicated to Hiera, the wife of the legendary founder of the, Telephus. The site was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988.
The city was a health center mostly because of the travertines. On the site there are more than 15 underground sources whose waters range in temperature between 30°C and 100°C. Travertine terraces are formed thanks to calcium carbonate, water and heat. When water, supersaturated with calcium carbonate, reaches the surface, carbon dioxide de-gasses from it and calcium carbonate precipitates. During its first formation, it has a soft gel form and as the time goes by it becomes harder and turns into a type of rock called travertine.
What to do in Pamukkale?
– You can swim in the ancient pool (Cleopatra’s pool) that is fed by hot springs. The water temperature is always 36°C both in summer and winter. Do not forget to bring bathing suits, towels and slippers.
– You can see the old city and the travertine terraces from above by doing the paragliding or helicopter rides.
– You can take a good walk among the ruins of the ancient city Hierapolis.
– You can enjoy the travertine terraces.
- What is the name of the formation in Pamukkale?
Pamukkale is made of a type of rock called travertine.
- When was the city of Hierapolis founded?
Hierapolis was founded in the 2nd century BC during the reign of Eumenes II, the king of the Kingdom of Pergamum.
- Where is Pamukkale located?
Pamukkale is located in the Denizli province of western Türkiye.
