What is Hierapolis?
Hierapolis was an ancient city located on hot springs in classical Phrygia in southwestern Anatolia. Its ruins are adjacent to modern Pamukkale in Turkey and currently comprise an archaeological museum designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hierapolis and the travertines below it form the single World Heritage Site of Hierapolis-Pamukkale, inscribed by UNESCO in 1988. The hot springs there 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. The great baths were constructed with huge stone blocks without the use of cement and consisted of various closed or open sections linked together. There are deep niches in the inner section, including the bath, library, and gymnasium. Significant structures in Hierapolis include the large and well-preserved theatre, the Temple of Apollo, and the Plutonium, a celebrated sanctuary of Pluto, the god of the underworld. Pilgrims came from all over the Greek world to visit the sanctuary and bathe in the healing waters. Hierapolis was also home to a significant Jewish community, and several Jewish inscriptions in Greek have been found among the ruins. One of the most significant figures associated with Hierapolis is the apostle Philip. According to Christian tradition, Philip was martyred in Hierapolis around 80 AD. The Martyrium of St. Philip, an octagonal church that dates back to the 5th century, was built in his honor. Today, the site is a popular destination for tourists. The terraces of Pamukkale, formed over centuries by mineral-rich thermal waters, are a natural wonder and a must-see. Also, the Hierapolis Archaeology Museum located in the former Roman baths complex offers an impressive collection of artifacts from the region.How do you get to Hierapolis?
Here are a few ways to reach it: By Air: The nearest airport to Hierapolis is Denizli Çardak Airport, about 65 km away. There are daily flights from Istanbul to Denizli. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use a shuttle service to reach Hierapolis. By Train: The Denizli train station is connected with Izmir and other major cities of Turkey. From the train station, it is about an hour’s drive to Hierapolis. By Bus: Denizli is well connected to major cities in Turkey like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir by a network of comfortable coach services. Once you arrive in Denizli, you can take a local bus or taxi to Pamukkale and Hierapolis. By Car: If you’re driving, you can reach Hierapolis/Pamukkale by taking the D320 highway from Denizli. Once you arrive in Pamukkale, Hierapolis is within easy walking distance. It’s located directly above the famous travertine terraces, and the entrance to the site includes access to both the ancient city and the terraces.When is the best time to visit Hierapolis?
The best time to visit Hierapolis depends on your preferences. If you don’t mind high temperatures and want to take advantage of the longest days of the year, summer (June to August) is a good time. However, please note that this is the peak tourist season, so it could be crowded. If you prefer more moderate temperatures and fewer tourists, spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October) are excellent times to visit. During these periods, the weather is usually comfortable for sightseeing, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). If you’re interested in visiting the nearby natural wonder of Pamukkale (which is in the same complex with Hierapolis), the terraces are most stunning in the sunlight of spring and autumn.What is the history of Hierapolis?
Hierapolis was an ancient city located on hot springs in what is now Turkey and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The name Hierapolis means “sacred city”, as it is associated with the many temples and religious structures in the city. The city is located in the region known as Phrygia, one of the oldest settlement areas in Turkey. The exact date of the city’s founding is uncertain, but it was likely established around the 2nd century BC by the King of Pergamon. Later, it fell under Roman control and flourished, reaching its peak in the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD. During the Roman period, it became famous for its textiles and purple dyes. Hierapolis was an important center for the cult of Apollo Lairbenos, which was associated with the ancient Near Eastern deity of Lavranda. The city was particularly noted for its spa and the thermal waters, believed to have healing properties. Pilgrims traveled to Hierapolis to find relief from their ailments or to find a serene death, earning Hierapolis the name “gateway to the underworld”. The city was destroyed by earthquakes on multiple occasions, and each time it was rebuilt. After a major earthquake in 1334, the city was abandoned. Notably, Hierapolis is also associated with early Christianity. Philip the Apostle, one of the disciples of Jesus, is said to have been martyred in the city. The site of his martyrdom is traditionally identified with a hill outside the northeastern section of the city walls, though this has not been substantiated by archaeological evidence. In the modern era, the ruins of Hierapolis have become a significant archaeological site, with ongoing excavations revealing more about the city’s history. Some of the significant structures at the site include the large necropolis (graveyard), filled with sarcophagi, the main thoroughfare lined with columns, the Roman theatre, the Byzantine gate, and the Pluto’s Gate (Plutonium), a cave thought to be an entrance to the underworld.What is Hierapolis famous for?
ierapolis is a historical site that has contributed much to the world’s understanding of ancient civilizations, particularly those of the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Spa City: Hierapolis was one of the first major spa cities in the world, with people traveling from far and wide to take advantage of its thermal springs, which were believed to have healing properties. Pluto’s Gate (Plutonium): Hierapolis is home to an ancient religious site known as Pluto’s Gate (Plutonium), once considered the entrance to the underworld in Greco-Roman mythology. It is a geographical feature caused by toxic gases that are deadly to living creatures, reinforcing its mythological status. Theatre: The theatre of Hierapolis is one of the best preserved in Turkey. Built during the reign of Hadrian after the earthquake of 60 AD, it has a seating capacity of about 10,000. The stage building also preserves many relief scenes giving insight into the theatrical culture and decorum of the period. Necropolis: Hierapolis has one of the most extensive and best-preserved necropolises (large ancient cemeteries) in Turkey. The wide variety of burial practices present in the necropolis provides significant insight into the funerary traditions of the period. Martyrdom of Saint Philip: The apostle Philip is said to have been martyred in Hierapolis, making it a significant site in early Christian history. The Martyrium of St Philip, a 5th-century church built in the apostle’s honor, is an important piece of early Christian architecture. Hierapolis Archaeology Museum: The museum, located within the ancient city, is a first in its kind as it is situated among the ancient ruins of Hierapolis and houses findings from the site and nearby locations. World Heritage Status: Hierapolis, along with the nearby natural site of Pamukkale, was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1988. This is evidence of the historical, cultural, and natural significance of the area. Hierapolis Sawmill: A Roman sawmill believed to be the earliest known machine to incorporate a crank and connecting rod mechanism. This has been dated to the 3rd century AD. Travertine Terraces of Pamukkale: Located near Hierapolis, Pamukkale (meaning ‘Cotton Castle’) is a natural site and attraction in Turkey, famous for its white travertine terraces. The mineral-rich thermal waters rising from the ground deposit a material called travertine, creating these white terraces, pools, and stalactites. The site was used as a spa since the 2nd century BC.What can you see at Hierapolis?
Hierapolis, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site along with Pamukkale, offers a rich array of historical places to visit. Theatre: This impressively preserved theatre was built in the 2nd century AD during the reign of Emperor Hadrian. It could accommodate up to 10,000 spectators and is adorned with various friezes depicting mythological themes. Necropolis: The Necropolis of Hierapolis is one of the best preserved in Turkey, with over 1200 graves. It includes a variety of burial types, such as sarcophagi, house-type tombs, tumuli, and graves. Pluto’s Gate (Plutonium): An ancient religious site known as Pluto’s Gate, considered the entrance to the underworld in Greco-Roman mythology. The site emits toxic gases, which led to its mythological status. Temple of Apollo: This ancient temple, dedicated to the Greek god Apollo, is associated with Pluto’s Gate. The temple stands on a fault, from which deadly vapors emanate, creating a mystic atmosphere around the sanctuary. Frontinus Street and Gate: The main street of Hierapolis, named after the Roman proconsul Frontinus. The gate at the end of this street is a splendid arch that served as the northern entrance to the city. Hierapolis Ancient Pool (Cleopatra’s Pool): This thermal pool was part of a Roman bath complex. Visitors can swim among ancient Roman ruins in the warm, mineral-rich waters. Hierapolis Archaeology Museum: This museum is located in the former Roman bath and houses a large collection of artifacts from Hierapolis and nearby ancient cities. Highlights include a statue of the god Apollo, sarcophagi, and a collection of small artifacts. Martyrium of St Philip: This octagonal structure is believed to be the site of the martyrdom of the Apostle Philip. It’s located on top of a hill outside the city and offers a fantastic view of the area. Ancient Roman Baths: These baths used the hot springs of Hierapolis to feed the bathing complexes, the ruins of which still exist today. Travertine Terraces of Pamukkale: Located near Hierapolis, these white terraces are made from the mineral-rich thermal waters that rise from the ground.Who are the most famous people in the history of Hierapolis?
The city of Hierapolis, located in present-day Turkey, was a significant center in antiquity, and several notable figures are associated with its history. Here are a few: Antipater of Hierapolis: He was a philosopher of the second half of the 2nd century AD and belonged to the Stoic school. His writings primarily concern ethics. Apollonius of Hierapolis: A Greek rhetorician from the 1st century AD. Little is known about his life, but his writings provide insight into ancient life and thought. Papias of Hierapolis: An early Christian bishop and Apostolic Father who was associated with Hierapolis. He is known for his writings on the life of Christ and the early church, although only fragments of his work survive. Philip the Apostle: According to tradition, Philip the Apostle was martyred in Hierapolis. His tomb is said to have been found here in the 1st century AD. Flavius Zeuxis: A well-known physician from Hierapolis who lived during the reign of Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD.What are the best things to do in Hierapolis?
- Pamukkale Thermal Pools: These naturally formed, warm, calcium-rich terraces are an absolute must-see in Hierapolis. The unique white cascades, also known as Cotton Castle, are caused by thermal spring water that has cooled and deposited calcium.
- Hierapolis Ancient City: Explore the ruins of the ancient city. Notable structures include the theater, the Temple of Apollo, and the Byzantine gates.
- Hierapolis Archaeology Museum: Located within the ancient city, this museum displays a wealth of artifacts unearthed during excavations in Hierapolis and Pamukkale.
- Cleopatra’s Pool: This is a thermal pool at the Pamukkale hot springs. It’s believed that Cleopatra herself swam here.
- Necropolis: This large ancient cemetery contains over 1,200 tombs and is one of the best-preserved in Turkey.
- The Ancient Theater: With a seating capacity of around 10,000, this ancient theater offers excellent views of the area and is evidence of the city’s historical grandeur.
- The Martyrium of Saint Philip: It’s believed that Saint Philip was martyred here. The site includes a church and the ruins of an octagonal structure that was likely the Martyrium itself.
- Frontinus Gate: This monumental entrance gate was one of the entrances to the city and dates back to Roman times.
- The Plutonium: Known as the Gate to Hell in ancient times, this site was believed to be a portal to the underworld due to the toxic gases it emits.
- The Antique Pool: Enjoy a warm dip in the thermal waters that are scattered with ancient ruins.
- Agora: Visit the remains of the central market place and social gathering area of ancient Hierapolis.
- Travertine Terraces: The gleaming white terraces are made from the calcium carbonate in the flowing water and offer a unique sight.
- Byzantine Walls: Witness the ruins of these walls that once protected the city.
- North Byzantine Gate: This gate was once the city’s northern entrance.
- Pamukkale Natural Park: Located nearby, this park offers beautiful views, perfect for a picnic or leisurely walk.
Frequently asked questions about Hierapolis
What is Hierapolis?
A Greco-Roman spa city founded in the second century BC on the plateau above the Pamukkale springs. People came for the thermal water, and many came to die there, which is why its necropolis is among the largest in the ancient world.
Do you need a separate ticket for Hierapolis and Pamukkale?
No. They form a single UNESCO site with a shared entrance, so one admission covers the terraces and the ancient city above them.
What should you not miss at Hierapolis?
The theatre, among the best preserved in Anatolia with its stage building still standing; the necropolis with more than a thousand tombs; the Plutonium, a cave the ancients believed was an entrance to the underworld; and the Martyrium of Saint Philip on the hill.
How long does Hierapolis take?
Two to three hours on top of whatever time you spend on the terraces. The site is large and spread out along the plateau.
Which entrance should you use at Hierapolis?
There are gates at the north and south of the plateau and one at the foot of the terraces. Entering at a plateau gate saves you the climb up the travertines, which is the tiring part if you do it in the heat.
Is there shade at Hierapolis?
Almost none. The plateau is open and the stone reflects heat, so water, a hat and an early or late visit matter more here than at most sites.