Aphrodisas Ancient City
Aphrodisias, a gem of ancient history, is a site that will leave you absolutely awestruck! Nestled in the heart of modern-day Turkey, Aphrodisias was a city dedicated to Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. Imagine walking down the ancient Tetrapylon Street, where the grand Tetrapylon once stood as a monumental gateway, welcoming visitors with its majestic columns and intricate carvings. Each step you take is like a journey back in time, where the echoes of history resonate through the ruins.
One of the highlights of Aphrodisias is undoubtedly the Hadrianus Bath. This ancient bathhouse is not just a relic; it's a testament to the luxurious lifestyle and advanced engineering skills of the Romans. As you explore the various rooms and pools, you can almost feel the steam rising and hear the chatter of citizens relaxing and socializing. The Hadrianus Bath was more than just a place to cleanse; it was a social hub where politics, gossip, and business intertwined.
And let's not forget the Sebasteion Propyloni! This magnificent structure was part of a larger complex dedicated to the Roman emperors and Aphrodite herself. The Sebasteion Propyloni served as an impressive entranceway adorned with stunning reliefs that depicted various mythological scenes and imperial propaganda. Walking through this gateway, you can almost feel the divine presence that once graced this sacred space.
Aphrodisias is more than just an archaeological site; it's an immersive experience that transports you to a world where art, culture, and history collide in the most spectacular fashion. Whether you're wandering down Tetrapylon Street or marveling at the grandeur of Hadrianus Bath and Sebasteion Propyloni, every corner of Aphrodisias offers a new adventure waiting to be discovered!
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.