Pamukkale: Turkish Wonderland Where Cotton Castles Meet Ancient Ruins
In southwest Turkey, a breathtaking natural wonder known as Pamukkale, meaning “cotton castle” in Turkish, offers a unique blend of geological marvels and ancient history, CNN reports.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to a cascade of brilliant white travertine terraces, formed by the mineral-rich waters that emerge from the earth at boiling temperatures. The terraces, once filled with numerous natural pools, provide a picture-perfect backdrop for visitors to take in the extraordinary spectacle and relax in the milky blue mineral water.
While Pamukkale is a popular destination for Instagram-worthy photos, its history stretches back thousands of years. The ancient Greek and Roman civilizations were drawn to the thermal waters and revered the site as a gateway to Hell. Today, the ruins of Hierapolis, an ancient city built on the plateau above the terraces, offer a glimpse into the past, with toppled columns and remnants of temples and bathhouses scattered across the landscape.
Visitors can explore the sprawling site, taking in the dramatic contrast between the stark white terraces and the ancient ruins. The most impressive view of the white landscape unfolds after a short walk from the South Gate, revealing the grandeur of nature’s creation. While some of the natural pools are now empty, the site still offers a series of serene pools cascading down the hillside, perfect for paddling or soaking in the therapeutic mud.
