Hierapolis (Greek: Ιεραπολις, "Holy city") was the ancient city on top of the famous Pamukkale hot springs which are located in south-western Turkey near Denizli, in the Denizli Province.

This place, which is listed as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is not to be confused with another ancient city of that name in eastern Turkey, Hierapolis Bambyce or Mabug.

As the hot springs of Pamukkale were used as a spa since the 2nd century B.C., people came to sooth their ailings here. Many of them retired and died here. The large cemetery area covered with many sarcophagus is thus known as a Necropolis.

In the year 17 A.D. an earthquake destroyed the city, which was rebuilt. In the year 1534, another earthquake destroyed the remains of the ancient city. After the large white limestone formations of the hot springs became famous in the 20th century as the tourist attraction Cotton Castle (Pamukkale), the ancient city was rediscovered, but also partially destroyed by hotels that were built there. These buildings were removed again in recent years. The hot water pool of one hotel was retained, and, for a fee, it is possible to swim amongst ancient stone remains.

Until recently, Italian scientists worked on the excavation and restoration of the site. For example, large columns along the main street near the gate named after Domitian that were toppled by the earthquakes were erected again.

World Heritage Sites in Turkey | Ancient Greek cities

Hierapolis | Hierápolis | Hierapolis | ヒエラポリス-パムッカレ | Hieropolis | Hierapolis