Pamukkale, located in southwestern Turkey, is an astonishing destination, known for its gleaming white slopes and natural pools. From a distance, the landscape may resemble a ski resort, with its hills covered in a bright white layer and scattered tourists at the top. However, what appears to be snow is actually travertine limestone, shaped by the action of hot springs that emerge from the ground at extremely high temperatures.
This natural phenomenon has been attracting visitors for thousands of years, long before the age of social media, when Greeks and Romans frequented the area seeking the healing properties of its hot waters and visiting what they believed to be a gateway to the underworld.
Today, Pamukkale, along with the ancient city of Hierapolis, is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, drawing tourists from around the world. Although most visitors spend only a few hours here, the vastness of Pamukkale and its rich history justify a longer stay.
Entering through the South Gate, the initial view may seem underwhelming, with scattered ruins and few signs of the site’s grandeur. However, after a short walk, the white slopes and pools begin to emerge, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The terraces, shaped over millennia by mineral deposits, are known as the “cotton castle,” which is the meaning of Pamukkale in Turkish.
In the past, these terraces were filled with numerous natural blue pools, though many are now dry and off-limits, leading some visitors to comment on the difference between older photos and the present reality. “It’s beautiful, but there’s less water than I expected,” says Mary Huang, a tourist from China, while posing for a picture near one of the remaining pools. Despite this, she admits: “The view is stunning.”
Even with some areas dried out, Pamukkale remains one of the most photogenic and fascinating places in the world, especially at sunset when the white slopes take on a pink hue under the soft light of late afternoon. A visit to this site offers a unique combination of natural beauty and rich historical heritage, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
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