Hierapolis

Hierapolis is an ancient city in the region of Phrygia, located on the plains above the thermal springs near Pamukkale in Denizli Province, southwestern Turkey. The name derives from Greek, meaning Holy City. The site sits adjacent to the modern Pamukkale travertine terraces, a landscape formed by mineral-rich hot springs that fed the city’s spa culture. Together with Pamukkale, Hierapolis was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988 for its natural and cultural significance.

Historically, Hierapolis developed from a Hellenistic foundation and flourished as a Roman spa city. It attracted visitors seeking therapeutic springs and religious associations, enabling the construction of monumental urban architecture. The ruins reflect a long span of Roman and early Byzantine life, including public baths, a gymnasium, an agora, and a large theatre. The extensive necropolis contains thousands of rock-cut tombs and elaborate sarcophagi, underscoring the city’s wealth and standing in the region.

Among its notable features is the Ploutonion, or Pluto’s Gate, a cave temple associated with the underworld and famed for its volcanic vapors. The site preserves elements of Christian antiquity as well, with later ecclesiastical remains reflecting Hierapolis’s role as a Byzantine bishopric.

Today, Hierapolis is a major archaeological park and tourist destination. Excavations have revealed extensive Roman urban planning, religious sanctuaries, and inscriptions that illuminate daily life in Asia Minor. The nearby Pamukkale terraces remain a key companion attraction, illustrating the interplay between natural wonders and ancient urban centers.