It was the first day for us that we woke up without the stress of the travel! We remain to Pamukkale to visit the ancient Hierapolis. So we took our breakfast and started our walk...!
The name «Pamukkale» in Greek means "Cotton Castle". This name "owes" to the white slope which created by the flowing hot springs, rich in calcium. This spectacle isn’t unique only in this country but to the whole world. In this area there are streams where tourists can enjoy the current thermal waters and artificial pools which unfortunately, they do not have the best maintenance. In the same area is Hierapolis!
Hierapolis is an ancient city in Hellenistic times which was very popular for her healing waters. Her history is long and rich but declined in the 6th century when a part of the city sank under the water and to the calcareous sediments. Passing the ruins of the Gate headed to the chiseled, by water, white rocks and the natural pools which are created by them. Tourists are not allowed to walk on the rocks. Although we can say that our big regret was that the managers had closed the supply of running hot water. Due to continuous flow of the water, many plants and especially greenery are growing there but when they stopping it, the sun stops the growth thereof. Turkey quite operates the view of the tourist attraction and it seems to be a good effort maintenance and configuration to the space. Sidewalks filled with various kinds of flowers and large trees give another point of the environment.
One of the great attractions, apart of the white cliffs, is the "pool" located in front of the theater of Hierapolis. Considered that because of the ancient marble columns which exist in it, this was the bath of Apollo. The pool is available to any tourist to enjoy it but always with the profit in mind! The ancient Greek theater is maintained in good condition and dating from 200 BC. The capacity is approximately 15,000 spectators, has a commanding "orchestra" - scene and offers a spectacular view. Going uphill, the temple is distinguished: "The Martyrdom of St. Philip" which is built in the 5th century AD to the point where St. Philip was crucified and stoned. It features a unique architecture, while there is a crypt in which, it is believed that there were the remains of the saint. Descending, we reach to the ancient market of Hierapolis. The main street of the town, which survives until these days, called "Square", leading to the Gate of Domitian. Within walking distance starts Necropolis. Necropolis is the largest ancient cemetery in Anatolia with more than 1200 graves. There including, vaulted tombs and funerary monuments since Roman, Hellenistic and Early Christian times.
We wandered to the streets of the ancient city before we take the way back...! The time had passed and the afternoon had come. Tourists are still entering to the site. We arrived at the hotel and enjoyed a wonderful relaxing lunch recollecting the moments we experienced on this day. Owner's nephew, of the hotel stayed with us for a little chatting...! We discussed about many things and various subjects. The evening rolled away peacefully, with large doses of relaxation and laughter..!
