Pamukkale looks like a frozen waterfall in the middle of sunny Turkey. Locals call it the "Cotton Castle" because of its white terraces. Visitors have flocked here for thousands of years to soak in the thermal waters. The site also hosts the ancient city of Hierapolis on its summit. Together, they offer a unique mix of natural beauty and history. However, mass tourism almost destroyed this wonder in the past. Today, strict rules protect the delicate white stones for future generations.
Pamukkale
Literally, Pamukkale translates to “Cotton Castle” in the Turkish language. In fact, the gleaming white terraces resemble giant piles of fluffy cotton. Surprisingly, you can see this striking landscape from twenty kilometers away. Therefore, locals gave it this poetic name centuries ago.
Visitors can swim among real ancient Roman ruins. Specifically, the Antique Pool contains fallen marble columns from the Temple of Apollo. Unfortunately, an earthquake toppled them into the water long ago. Thus, you paddle through history in warm, bubbly champagne water.
Scientifically, the white material is actually travertine, not snow or ice. First, thermal waters rich in calcium flow over the cliffs and harden. Over time, the rock creates these stunning natural pools. Consequently, the landscape looks frozen despite the hot weather.
Mysteriously, ancient priests guarded a “Gate to Hell” at this site. Reportedly, the Plutonium cave released toxic gases that killed living creatures instantly. However, the priests survived by holding their breath. Eventually, archaeologists discovered this deadly entrance under the ruins.
Currently, authorities strictly force you to remove your shoes. Unfortunately, walking with shoes damages the delicate white deposits. Therefore, everyone must walk barefoot on the designated path. Ultimately, this rule keeps the famous Pamukkale white for future generations.
Strangely, the nearby city of Denizli honors a rooster. Indeed, you will see statues of this bird everywhere near the site. Remarkably, the local breed is famous for its incredibly long crowing. Thus, it serves as a noisy mascot for the region.
The ancient city of Hierapolis sits on top of the terraces. Originally, the Kings of Pergamon founded this holy spa city. Specifically, they built it in the second century BC. Consequently, visitors experience two UNESCO World Heritage sites for the price of one.
Historically, the massive Roman theater held 12,000 spectators. Cleverly, ancient engineers built the structure into the steep hillside. From there, it overlooked the bustling city below. Luckily, Italian excavators restored the stage to its former glory.
Sadly, St. Philip the Apostle died in Hierapolis. Initially, he traveled to the city to spread Christianity. Unfortunately, he faced persecution and martyrdom there. Eventually, archaeologists found his octagonal tomb on the hill above the theater.
Regrettably, hotels once stood directly on top of the terraces. Specifically, developers built resorts that drained the thermal water. As a result, this caused the white stone to turn gray. Fortunately, the government demolished them to save Pamukkale.
Nicolas Cage filmed scenes for Ghost Rider 2 here. For instance, the production team used the ancient theater for a dramatic scene. Thus, Hollywood immortalized the ruins on the big screen. However, they had to be careful not to damage the site.
Luckily, the water temperature stays comfortable year-round. Consistently, it emerges from the underground spring at roughly 36 degrees Celsius. So, it feels like a warm bath even in winter. Therefore, tourists visit in all seasons.
Historically, ancient doctors used the water to treat various illnesses. Specifically, people believed the springs cured high blood pressure and rheumatism. As a result, older people and the sick retired here. Consequently, the city became a popular healing center.
Frequently, paragliders fly over the white cliffs every single day. Bravely, adventure seekers jump from the mountain above the ancient city. Consequently, they get a bird’s-eye view of the landscape. Undeniably, the contrast between white rock and green valley looks incredible.
Finally, the terraces are constantly changing shape. Continually, the flowing water deposits new calcium layers every single day. Thus, nature continuously sculpts the landscape without stopping. Therefore, visitors never see exactly the same Pamukkale twice.
