Pamukkale - Hierapolis [antikvár]

'he Geographic Location of Hierapolis Hierapolis is situated over a valley where one of the tributaries of the Menderes River the Qiiriiksu River (knovm as 'Lycus' in antiquity), flows at a distance of 18 km from the province of Denizli. Two mountains border either side of the Lycus Valley. The one rising in the southeast to a height of 2,571 m. above sea level is the extinct volcano, Mt. Honaz (Cadmos in antiquity) while Babadag (Mount Salbacus in antiquity) is situated in the south. Situated at the junction of ancient caravan routes, ancient Hierapolis is located on a branch of the ancient king's road. The economy of Hierapolis had always thrived due to the fertile lands of the Lycus Valley where produce is grovm. This rich tovm never really developed as it was too busy mending the structures that were damaged in frequent earthquakes. While Hierapolis was situated at the junction of the Lydian, Carian and Phrygian regions, it was considered within the ancient region of Phrygia. Because of its travertines that resemble cotton, this ancient town is currently known as Pamukkale, which means 'Cotton Fortress' in Turkish. Travertine is a banded, compact variety of limestone formed along streams, particularly where there are waterfalls and around hot or cold springs. Calcium carbonate is deposited where evaporation of the water leaves a solution supersaturated with the chemical constituents of calcite. Situated in the center of the town is a therapeutic hot springs in the midst of the ancient ruins where tourists swim in thrilled amazement. Map of Western Anatolia showing the location of Hierapolis.