The Ancient City of Hierapolis is one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in Turkey, located beside the famous Pamukkale Travertines in Denizli Province, southwestern Anatolia. Known as the “Holy City” of antiquity, Hierapolis was a magnificent Greco-Roman spa city famous for its thermal springs, monumental architecture, religious importance, and healing traditions.
Founded during the Hellenistic period by the kings of Pergamon, Hierapolis developed into one of the most important cities of the ancient region of Phrygia. Its natural hot springs attracted visitors from across the Roman Empire seeking health, relaxation, and spiritual purification.
Today, Hierapolis is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pamukkale-Hierapolis, together with the spectacular white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters.
The city offers visitors an exceptional journey through history with its:
- Monumental Roman theatre
- Ancient thermal baths
- Temple of Apollo
- Plutonium (Gate of the Underworld)
- Grand necropolis
- Byzantine churches
- Colonnaded streets
- Archaeological museum
History
Foundation of Hierapolis
Hierapolis was founded by King Eumenes II of Pergamon in the 2nd century BC.
According to ancient tradition, the city was named after Hiera, the wife of Telephos, the legendary founder of Pergamon.
The city was established near sacred thermal springs that were already known for their healing properties.
The name Hierapolis means:
“Sacred City”
reflecting its religious importance.
Hellenistic Period
During the Pergamon Kingdom, Hierapolis became an important settlement connected with Greek culture.
The city benefited from:
- Thermal resources
- Agricultural wealth
- Trade routes
- Religious tourism
The healing waters attracted pilgrims and visitors from surrounding regions.
Roman Period: The Golden Age
In 133 BC, after the death of King Attalus III of Pergamon, Hierapolis became part of the Roman Empire.
The city entered a period of great prosperity.
Roman rulers developed Hierapolis into a luxury spa destination with:
- Large bath complexes
- Theatres
- Temples
- Monumental streets
- Public fountains
- Villas
The city became famous among wealthy Romans seeking medical treatments and relaxation.
Earthquakes and Reconstruction
Hierapolis was located in a highly active seismic region.
A major earthquake in 17 AD, during the reign of Emperor Tiberius, severely damaged the city.
The Romans rebuilt Hierapolis with a new urban plan, including many of the monuments visible today.
Later earthquakes continued to affect the city, but Hierapolis was repeatedly restored.
Christianity and Byzantine Period
Hierapolis gained major religious importance during the early Christian period.
According to Christian tradition, Saint Philip the Apostle was martyred here.
The city became a significant Christian center and developed into a bishopric.
During the Byzantine period, several churches were built, including the famous Martyrion of St. Philip.
Archaeological Excavations
The first archaeological investigations were conducted by German researchers in the late 19th century.
Since 1957, excavations and restoration have been carried out by an Italian archaeological mission.
The work has uncovered:
- Temples
- Public buildings
- Sculptures
- Inscriptions
- Tombs
- Ancient streets
Restoration projects have made Hierapolis one of the best-preserved ancient cities in Turkey.
Geography
Hierapolis is located on a plateau above the famous Pamukkale thermal terraces.
The surrounding landscape includes:
- White travertine formations
- Thermal springs
- The Menderes Valley
- Mountain landscapes
Its location provided both natural beauty and strategic importance.
The nearby thermal waters shaped the city’s identity as an ancient health resort.
Top Attractions
Ancient Thermal Baths
The Roman baths are among the first monuments visitors encounter.
Built in the 2nd century AD, the complex remains remarkably well preserved.
The bath complex included:
- Large halls
- Marble rooms
- Hot chambers
- Cold rooms
- Exercise areas
The eastern section contained a palaestra, measuring approximately:
36.13 x 52.25 meters
This area was used for athletic training and social activities.
Today, part of the bath complex houses the Hierapolis Archaeology Museum.
Hierapolis Archaeology Museum
Located inside the restored Roman Bath complex, the museum displays remarkable discoveries from the site.
Collections include:
- Marble sculptures
- Theatre decorations
- Sarcophagi
- Architectural fragments
- Roman artworks
Many works demonstrate the influence of the famous Aphrodisias sculpture school.
Ancient Theatre of Hierapolis
The theatre is one of the most impressive monuments of Hierapolis.
Originally located near the northern gate, it was moved and rebuilt during the reign of the Flavian emperors.
The theatre was later expanded under Emperor Septimius Severus (193–211 AD).
Highlights include:
- 30 preserved rows of seats
- Richly decorated stage building
- Mythological reliefs
- Views over the surrounding plain
The stage decorations depict scenes related to:
- Apollo
- Artemis
- Mythological stories
The restored theatre allows visitors to appreciate the grandeur of Roman entertainment architecture.
Martyrion of Saint Philip
Located above the theatre, the Martyrion of Saint Philip is one of Hierapolis’ most important Christian monuments.
Built in the early 5th century AD, this octagonal structure was dedicated to Saint Philip.
The building demonstrates the importance of Hierapolis as an early Christian pilgrimage center.
Temple of Apollo
The Temple of Apollo was the principal religious sanctuary of Hierapolis.
Although the foundations date back to the Hellenistic period, the visible remains mainly belong to the Roman era.
The temple was built on a raised platform and measured approximately:
20 x 15 meters
Apollo was considered the main deity of the city.
Plutonium (Gate of the Underworld)
Next to the Temple of Apollo is the famous Plutonium, a sacred cave associated with the underworld gods.
Ancient writers, including Strabo, described poisonous gases emerging from the cave.
The site was considered a sacred entrance to the realm of:
- Pluto (Hades)
- Persephone
Priests used the phenomenon during religious ceremonies.
Monumental Fountain
A large fountain stood in front of the Temple of Apollo.
Built in the late 3rd century AD, it featured:
- Rectangular design
- Decorative statues
- Columns
- A large pool
Water was supplied through aqueduct systems connected with nearby sources.
Colonnaded Street (Plateia)
The main avenue of Hierapolis was the impressive Plateia, a north-south street measuring approximately:
13 meters wide
It connected important areas of the city.
The street was decorated with:
- Colonnades
- Porticoes
- Shops
- Public buildings
It extended from the southern gate to the Arch of Domitian.
Arch of Domitian
The Arch of Domitian is one of the most recognizable monuments of Hierapolis.
Built around 82–83 AD, it was dedicated to Emperor Domitian by Julius Frontinus, governor of Roman Asia.
The monumental gateway contains:
- Three arches
- Two circular towers
- Decorative elements
It marked the northern entrance of the city.
City Walls
The defensive walls of Hierapolis were constructed in 396 AD during the Late Roman period.
They included:
- Twenty-eight towers
- Defensive gates
- Reinforced sections
The walls reflect the changing security situation of the late empire.
Agora
The ancient agora was located between the Byzantine and Domitian gates.
It served as the commercial and social center of Hierapolis.
The area contained:
- Markets
- Public spaces
- Civic buildings
Byzantine Basilica
Several Christian buildings were constructed during the Byzantine period.
One important basilica near the museum includes:
- Central nave
- Two aisles
- Apse
It reflects Hierapolis’ transformation into a Christian religious center.
Necropolis of Hierapolis
The Necropolis of Hierapolis is one of the largest and best-preserved ancient cemeteries in Anatolia.
Stretching for approximately 2 kilometers, it contains:
- Tumuli
- Sarcophagi
- Temple-shaped tombs
- Family burial houses
The cemetery represents different periods:
- Hellenistic
- Roman
- Early Christian
Walking through the necropolis provides a powerful impression of ancient beliefs about death and the afterlife.
Things to Do
Visitors can enjoy:
- Exploring the ancient city ruins
- Swimming in thermal waters
- Visiting Pamukkale terraces
- Walking through the necropolis
- Photographing Roman monuments
- Learning about ancient healing traditions
- Visiting the archaeological museum
Nearby Attractions
Pamukkale Travertines
The famous white terraces formed by calcium-rich thermal waters are Turkey’s most iconic natural attractions.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Thermal pools
- Scenic walks
- Sunset views
Karahayıt Thermal Springs
Located about 4 km from Hierapolis, Karahayıt is famous for:
- Red mineral waters
- Thermal hotels
- Spa treatments
Laodicea Ancient City
Located nearby, Laodicea was one of the Seven Churches of Revelation.
Highlights include:
- Stadium
- Theatre
- Ancient streets
- Churches
Tripolis Ancient City
About 40 km away, Tripolis offers:
- Roman theatre
- City walls
- Necropolis
Food and Drink
The Denizli region offers traditional Aegean cuisine.
Local specialties include:
- Denizli kebab
- Fresh vegetables
- Olive oil dishes
- Village breakfasts
- Local cheeses
- Regional sweets
Accommodation
Visitors usually stay in:
Pamukkale
Offers:
- Boutique hotels
- Thermal accommodations
- Family pensions
Denizli City
Provides:
- Modern hotels
- Restaurants
- Shopping facilities
Karahayıt
Known for:
- Thermal resorts
- Spa hotels
Climate
Hierapolis has a Mediterranean-influenced inland climate.
Spring (April–June)
The best season for exploring ruins.
Summer (July–August)
Hot and dry; early morning visits are recommended.
Autumn (September–October)
Excellent conditions for sightseeing.
Winter (November–March)
Cooler, with occasional rain and snow nearby.
Getting There
By Car
Approximate distances:
- Denizli: 20 km
- Laodicea: 10 km
- Tripolis: 40 km
- Antalya: 240 km
- Izmir: 250 km
By Air
Nearest airport:
- Denizli Çardak Airport – approximately 70 km
The site is easily accessible by rental car, taxi, or organized tours.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal months are:
- April
- May
- June
- September
- October
Spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures for exploring the large archaeological area.
Travel Tips
- Combine Hierapolis with Pamukkale in the same visit.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring sun protection during summer.
- Allow at least half a day to explore properly.
- Visit the theatre and necropolis, not only the travertines.
- Consider a guided tour to understand the religious and historical importance of the city.
Why Visit Hierapolis?
The Ancient City of Hierapolis is one of Turkey’s greatest archaeological treasures. It combines natural wonders, Roman architecture, ancient medicine, mythology, and early Christian history in one extraordinary destination.
From its magnificent theatre and sacred temples to its vast necropolis and healing thermal waters, Hierapolis offers a rare opportunity to experience the daily life, beliefs, and achievements of the ancient Mediterranean world. Together with Pamukkale, it remains one of Turkey’s most unforgettable cultural destinations.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.