Colossae Ancient City;
Situated on the banks of the Aksu River, north of Mount Honaz (Cadmos), Colossae is the fourth ancient city in Denizli where excavations have started following the other three major ancient cities. Colossae is known as an important religious center from ancient times and is mentioned in a part of the Bible as the "Epistle to the Colossians", a city where the first Christians lived. Surface studies have been conducted at the Colossae Ancient City, which is believed to house one of the seven largest churches in the world, the Church of Saint Michael. Please understand that this could be somewhat disappointing as the site remains untouched with no excavations having been carried out. After a brief visit, we will head towards Laodicea.
Laodicea Ancient City; “The Lukewarm Church”
Laodicea is a must-see, one of the unique places in Turkey. As you arrive, you will understand why; looking back, it will be a "wow" moment. This is not just any city; it's a mega-city. Now, it’s just a matter of walking for hours, but remember to keep your jaw off the ground; it is mind-blowing. Excavations and restorations have been ongoing since 2003, with around 4,000 artifacts uncovered so far. You will visit the Syrian Street, Fountains, temples, Stadium, and Theater while exploring the sacred Agora, which hosts one of the seven holy churches. Laodicea is referred to as the church that is "neither hot nor cold" in the Book of Revelation. we will head towards Pamukkale.
Pamukkale Travertines and Calcium pools
Pamukkale means "Cotton Castle"... Designated as a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1988, this natural phenomenon with its stunning white calcium cliffs and beautiful turquoise pools is truly a sight to behold. It's easy to understand why when you arrive; it’s like stepping into an alien landscape.
Cleopatra’s Pool
Do not leave Pamukkale without taking a healing dip in the sacred spring of Cleopatra’s Pool. Swimming in the vibrant waters of the Cleopatra Pool should top every Turkey Travel Program. At the bottom of the crystal clear Pool lies a stunning collection of striated columns and column capitals, a striking reminder of the Pool’s venerable heritage.
Hierapolis Ancient Site and Archaeological Museum
After walking along the terraces, we will take a short walk to the city of Hierapolis, also known as the 'Sacred City.' Just outside the main entrance lies the Necropolis, containing over 1,200 tombs and sarcophagi for people who wished to be buried here. Among these tombs is the Martyrium, built on the spot where Saint Philip is believed to have been martyred in AD 80. The proximity of the hot springs and steaming fissures led people to believe they eased the journey to the Underworld. The Baths of Hierapolis, sourced from these springs, were particularly popular among vacationing Romans. You will notice the massive Great Theatre carved into the hillside dominating Hierapolis's landscape.