We first visited Pamukkale in 2000 when we did a tour of the Seven Churches and stayed just one night. It was really interesting to return here with our children and see the restoration that has taken place since.
Pamukkale / Hierapolis
The travertines of Pamukkale are world famous. The rock formations that have been deposited from the hot springs over the centuries are amazing. We tried to translate the inscriptions at the theatre and spent most of the afternoon wandering around the large site. I don’t remember the ruins of the church and tomb of Philip and the large cathedral being on the tour in 2000.
Laodicea
In 2000, our tour just drove up to the site and there was not a lot to see. Now there is a paid entrance (15 ₺), cafe and gift shop. There were a couple of cranes and many workers uncovering ruins and restoring the city. A Byzantine church with mosaic floors was rediscovered here in 2010 and it has been preserved along with a temple, main streets, and houses.
Karahayıt city forest
Near our thermal hotel – relaxing in the hot pools was great – is a city forest. We enjoyed a climb into the mountains until the track got too muddy to go further.
