The Ruins of Hierapolis and the Calcium Carbonate Travertines at Pamukkale were highlights of our trip. Calcite-laden waters, deriving from springs in a cliff almost 200 m high overlooking the plain, have created at Pamukkale (meaning Cotton Palace) an unreal landscape, made up of mineral forests, petrified waterfalls and a series of terraced basins. The Greeks thought this surreal landscape led to the entrance to Hades and many journeyed here at the end of their days. The spas of Hierapolis were set up in the 2nd c. BCE to help heal and soothe the suffering pilgrims. Even today, people believe the hot smelly waters have healing powers. The ruins of the baths, temples and other Greek monuments, especially mausoleums, can be seen at the site.
