Hierapolis

Biblical References

Colossians 4:13

Epaphras (Colossians 1:7, 4:12; Philemon 1:23) may have been Paul's only direct connection to the three cities of the Lycus Valley - Hierapolis, Colossae and Laodicea - but the references to Laodicea and Hierapolis suggest that he was at least familiar with the Christian communities in these places.

Whether or not Paul ever visited Hierapolis is an unanswerable question but I am not aware of any positive evidence that he did so. However, the connections noted above mean that it is very definitely associated with St Paul.

Visiting the Site

Hierapolis' location above the glistening white travertines of Pamukkale means that there is more to see than just an archaeological site. The thermal activity in the area combined with the chemical composition of the spring water has created the most spectacular effect. It is no surprise that Hierapolis is a World Heritage site.

I have been able to visit Hierapolis on each of the study tours with which I have been involved. The contrast between my first visit (2008) and subsequent visits (2010, 2012, 2013) remains very clearly in my mind. The big difference was the amount of time we had to explore the site. Hierapolis is an extensive site requiring a visit of two to three hours in order to be able to roam over the whole location.

The information below is based on a visit entering the site at the northern gate and exiting at the southern gate.

Click here for a Google Earth view of Hierapolis.

Northern entrance to the site

If you have the time, entering the site from the north allows for the most comprehensive tour of the site.

If you have less time entering from the south gives quicker access to the main elements of the Roman city.

The Northern Necropolis

The northern necropolis (cemetery, literally, 'city of the dead') of Hierapolis is extensive. The walk from the northern entrance to the site, through the necropolis, to the outer gate of the city proper is about a kilometer.

Below: Tomb monuments, sarcophagi, and tumuli (tomb mounds) line the route into Hierapolis from the north.

Photo: 21 May 2010

Basilica Baths

The Basilica Baths stand just outside the northern gate of the Roman era city. The first port of call for any traveller these baths were later converted into a Christian basilica - crosses are etched into the keystones of some of the arches.

They are now marked with laser targets, for measuring movement in the unstable structure. The rear of the building is supported by scaffolding!

Below left: The Basilica Baths Photo: 21 May 2010

Frontinus Gate

The northern gateway into the Hierapolis of the Roman period.:

About 200 meters further on is the Byzantine era gate.

Above right: The Frontinus Gate Photo: 21 May 2010

Martyrion of St Philip

High above the city is the remains of the octagonal structure of the Martyrion of St Philip - eight standing arches remain. The path and steps up to the site are very impressive.

Below right: Martyrion of St Philip with the monumental steps below. Photo: 10 Jun 2012

Theatre of Hierapolis

The cavea of the theatre is very well preserved. The scene building has been extensively restored since this photo and since I was last there in 2013.

Theatre of Hierapolis, looking over the scene building towards Laodicea. Photo: 21 May 2010

Southern Byzantine Gate

At the southern extremity of the site the last feature is the old Byzantine Gate. Beyond is the car park, cafes and souvenir stalls.

Below left: The Southern Byzantine Gate. Photo: 10 Jun 2012

Travertines of Pamukkale

The calcium terraces of Pamukkale are truly spectacular. Pamukkale translates as "Cotton Castles".

Because of the draw off of thermal water for hotels, and other uses, the terraces are 'irrigated' on a rotational basis. They look even better when wet.

Above right: A small section of the calcium terraces of Pamukkale. Photo: 10 Jun 2012

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