Pamukkale Hierapolis Ancient City and Travertine Terraces Pamukkale, a Turkish term for "cotton castle," is a remarkable site known for its warm, mineralized water that flows from springs and creates unique pools and terraces. This site also houses Hierapolis, an excellent example of Graeco-Roman thermal installations, and Christian monuments showcasing early-Christian architecture complexes. The hot springs of Pamukkale have resulted in mineral deposits that create bizarre shapes such as mineral forests, petrified cascades, and terraced pools of a natural nymphaeum. It is no surprise that Pamukkale is one of Turkey's most popular tourist destinations, as visitors are mesmerized by its exceptional beauty. The ancient Greeks believed in the healing abilities of the hot springs, which were also responsible for transforming the landscape. Thus, they constructed a thermal station in the area during the 2nd-century Roman times. Hierapolis has a history similar to many Hellenistic cities in Asia Minor, following a similar course of development over time. Various thermal installations were constructed to take advantage of the therapeutic benefits of the waters, which included baths and pools. These hydrotherapy practices were accompanied by religious ceremonies that evolved in tandem with local cults. In 129 BC, the Romans gained complete control of the area, and it flourished under their rule. This cosmopolitan city was home to Anatolians, Graeco-Macedonians, Romans, and Jews, who mingled and interacted with each other. The hot springs, which attracted large crowds of people seeking the healing properties of the water, also served a secondary purpose of scouring and dyeing wool. The Temple of Apollo was built on top of a fault that emitted harmful gas. The theatre, constructed during the reign of Severus, boasts an impressive frieze depicting a ceremonial procession and tribute to Ephesian Artemis. According to ancient tradition, Domitian beheaded Philip the Apostle in Hierapolis in 87 AD. Despite this violent history, Hierapolis remained one of the two metropolises of Phrygia Pacatiana, serving as a bishopric. The Christian complex in Hierapolis includes the cathedral, baptistry, and churches, with the most significant monument being the martyrium of St. Philip. This structure's ingenious spatial organization and magnificent staircase make it a remarkable example of Christian architecture. Excavations at the Hierapolis Ancient City have revealed the Hell's Gate and the entrance to a cave that was once considered a "gateway between life and death" in ancient pagan beliefs. This area is now known as the Plutonium Sanctuary. The UNESCO World Heritage List recognized the ancient city of Hierapolis in 1988, acknowledging its historical and cultural significance.