Pamukkale is one of Turkey’s incomparable natural wonders featuring the calcium cascade terraces of snow white stalactites, and is known as an 8th Wonder of the World by Turkish people. Pamukkale & Hierapolis together have both been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1988. They have all the conditions required for an ideal touristic resort. Pamukkale means “Cotton Castle” but has had many different uncommon names in the past. Pamukkale is very well known for the entrancing beauty of its unique geological formations as well as its historical remains.
The white, cotton-like terraces are made from mineral deposits which have come from Cal Mountain’s rich volcanic springs for thousands of years. The water runs down the travertine and fills pools of water in which you can swim among the ancient Roman columns.
The ancient city of Hierapolis was located on the top of the white terraces and is about 2700 meters long and 160 meters high. It can be seen from the hills on the opposite side of the valley. Hierapolis is 14000 years old.
To keep the travertine white and to prevent crush and damage on the damage to them, it has been forbidden to walk on them since 1997. Water is allowed to reach the terraces periodically according to a weekly watering schedule. It is possible to walk on the south part of the travertine with bare feet.
History of Hierapolis;
The area of Hierapolis was chosen by many setters due to its abundant sources of water. It is believed that the ancient city was built by the people of Pergamum. The history of Hierapolis before the Hellenistic period is not known, but a settlement did exist there. It is known that around 1900 BC the Luwis were in the settled in the area. The most civilized city of its time was Cydrara, which was at its peak around 500 BC. The Cydarans built a holy temple in Hierapolis.
After the fall of Troy, many colonists migrated to Anatolia from Greece and south east Europe in the Hittite Period. It is still unknown if they established new cities, captured the existing cities, or settled among the people who already lived in the region. The people lived in peace for several centuries until the Anatolians were invaded by the Lydians that were living in the west of Asia. The Lydians were the victors. The Lydians were not in power for long; they were defeated by the Persians in 646 BC. The Persians' aim was not only Anatolia, but also Greek lands and the Aegean Islands.
We had a great day out here, there's so much to see and do. We looked around Hierapolis a little bit (some very interesting ruins) but the call of the thermal springs was too strong and we spent most of our tim...
Read MoreWe had a great day out here, there's so much to see and do. We looked around Hierapolis a little bit (some very interesting ruins) but the call of the thermal springs was too strong and we spent most of our time just dangling our legs in the water and looking out over the beautiful calcium pools. A word of advice though be careful getting in and out of the pools, there's some algae growing on the edge and it gets really slippery, I almost fell over twice and our guide mentioned that a few people having broken their arms while climbing in or out of the pools.
I would certainly recommend this company to anyone travelling solo or with a family. Went on a day trip to princess island and overnight trip to ephesus and pamukkale. the weather was great and had an enjoyable...
Read MoreI would certainly recommend this company to anyone travelling solo or with a family. Went on a day trip to princess island and overnight trip to ephesus and pamukkale. the weather was great and had an enjoyable trip for the family. excellent service, on time schedule and knowledgable guide. it was well worth the money.
The Airport transfers and the tours organised by this company were really good. Very punctual. The representative kept checking up to make sure everything ran smoothly. I absolutely enjoyed Pamukkale tour with ...
Read MoreThe Airport transfers and the tours organised by this company were really good. Very punctual. The representative kept checking up to make sure everything ran smoothly. I absolutely enjoyed Pamukkale tour with them, They even included Kaklik caves visit without additional charges.The prices charged for tours and transfers were very reasonable compared to what other tour companies were charging.
Both guides for Ephesus and Pamukkale were very informative and professional. The places where were visited amazing. It was a great trip, very enjoyable. We highly recommend. Thank you very much....
Read MoreBoth guides for Ephesus and Pamukkale were very informative and professional. The places where were visited amazing. It was a great trip, very enjoyable. We highly recommend. Thank you very much.
Hierapolis is an ancient Greek city but its ruins still make you love it especially when you see the greek words on the monuments... I was really touched !
The geological phenomenon of Pamukkale surprises you ...
Read MoreHierapolis is an ancient Greek city but its ruins still make you love it especially when you see the greek words on the monuments... I was really touched !
The geological phenomenon of Pamukkale surprises you and the view is breathtaking!