Pamukkale is one of the most interesting places in the world, justly famous not only for the entrancing beauty of its unique geological formations but also for its historical remains. In Turkish Pamukkale means ‘Cotton Castle’.
Hierapolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hot springs there have been used as a spa since the 2nd century BC.
The city of Pamukkale is located in the inner Aegean region, in the River Menderes Valley. Tectonic movements on the basin of the Menderes River triggered the rise of multiple hot springs. The water from these springs contains a large mineral content, with chalk, limestone and travertine cascading down the mountain, giving rise to the complexion of the mountains; resembling a frozen waterfall. The waters contain a large amount of hydrogen carbonate and calcium, which results in the precipitation of calcium bi-carbonate. The combination of all the above attribute, make the landscape surreal and Pamukkale is on the World Heritage list. Long before this listing, the Romans recognised this appeal and built a spa city, Hierapolis.
The hot springs at Hierapolis have been used as a spa since the 2nd century BC, and people came to soothe their ailments, with many of them retiring or dying here. The large necropolis is filled with sarcophagi, including the Sarcophagus of Marcus Aurelius Ammianos.
