Pamukkale, meaning “cotton castle” in Turkish, is a magnificent site to behold. The ancient Greco-Roman and Byzantine city of Hierapolis was built on top of the white “castle.” Hierapolis was founded as a thermal spa early in the 2nd century BCE and was used by various empires until the late 14th century CE. It includes a large coliseum, a very large necropolis (cemetery), and a number of other ruins. The hot springs which were turned into baths in the ancient world were a particular draw to the city. Today the ruins provide a fascinating view of an ancient city, and the travertine hills are a place of leisure and play for modern folks.

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