Hierapolis
Hierapolis
Hierapolis in other words Pamukkale is an ancient site near Denizli now. It is 20 km south-west of Denizli. It is famuous for its hot springs which has been used since 2nd century BC.
During ancient times Hierapolis was a spa center and its water was thought to heal some ailments. Today Hierapolis is in Unesco's World Heritage list.
Hierapolis was founded in 2nd century BC and given to Eumenes II, king of Pergamon. This historical site took its name from Hiera, wife of Telephos. Hierapolis is also means Holy City.
Hierapolis is an important place in Chistian belief, too. One of the apostles of Jesus Chirst, St. Philip was sent to spread Christianity among natives of Hierapolis in 80th century AD. But he was tortured and killed for his religion and had the name martyr. In Hierapolis there is martyrium for St. Philip in an octagonal shape.
Important Structures in Hierapolis
Theatre
Theatre of Hierapolis is one of the well preserved theatres of ancient world. It is located in the north of the city. It is close to Apollon Temple, Plutonium and St. Philip's martyrium.
Temple of Apollo
Old Apollon Temple was ruined in an earthquake but the temple was reconstructed in Roman fashion in 3rd centry AD. But continuous earthquakes ruined it again and only its marble floor remained today. It is located above the ancient pool and Plutonium.
Plutonium
Plutonium is a narrow cave which has poisonous gas in. It is under the Apollon Temple and thought to have gone to god of underworld Pluto's house. After some people's death they thought this poisonous gas was sent by Pluto. The entrance to the Plutonium was closed off.
Directions:
37°55'36.82"N
29° 7'45.95"E
Pamukkale is absolutely deserve to become one of the world wonders :) It should be preserved not only by adding it to the Unesco's lists. Great post and quite interesting information for Turkish cities.
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