Pamukkale (Hierapolis)
A WONDER of the WORLD
Pamukkale (Hierapolis)
Pamukkale is in inland southeastern Aegean Turkey.
Pamukkale, which has been used as a spa since the second century BC, literally means "cotton castle" in Turkish.
The travertine features have their origins in the shifting of a fault in the valley of the Menderes river (between here and Denizli). As the fault shifted, very
hot springs with a very high mineral content (notably chalk) arose at this location. Apart from the slightly radioactive minerals, the calcium and hydrogen carbonate react to create calcium carbonate (also known as travertine) and limestone. This is what gives Pamukkale its whiteness and created the pools.
It can get quite hot in summer, a hat and especially sunglasses will certainly be very helpful against the sun and the reflecting sun rays from the chalky cascades. On the other hand, the cold winter climate could make the experience slightly uncomfortable. Climbing up the cascades barefoot, with cold water running downstream will be a tough task.
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History
Hierapolis, whose name means "sacred city," was founded by Apollo. It was the site of sacred hot springs, whose gases were associated with Pluto, the god of the underworld. The city was mentioned by Paul in Colossians and had a significant Jewish community. Nowadays, Hierapolis is a world heritage site...
Read MorePlaces of interest
Before you arrive in Hierapolis, you can see thebeautiful white travertine terraces ofPamukkale, located next to the ruins of Hierapolis. The extraordinary effect is created when water from the hot springs loses carbon dioxide as it flows down the slopes, leaving deposits of limestone. The layers of white calcium carbonate,
Read MoreAir
The Closest airport to Pamukkale isDenizli- Cardak Airport, is 65 km or 1 hour away and there are flights twice daily to Istanbul.IzmirAdnan Menderes Airport is another alternative to the area. Pamukkale is 252 km from the airport and you may takea drive of about 4 - 5 hours by
Read MoreTrain
The nearest train station to Pamukkale is inDenizli, which currently has services fromIzmironly. TheIstanbulservice (Pamukkale Express) was suspended in 2008, presumably because of track renovations, and it is not certain when/if the services will re-start.
Read MoreBus
Bus to Pamukkale/Denizlican be found from almost all the cities of Turkey. Bus services include water, hot drinks and a snack. There are virtuallynobus companies that take you directly to Pamukkale despite what the ticket sellers tell you. The bus will drop you in Denizli and then you have to
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