Pamukkale Turkey (September 2023)

After we left Antalya, we went to Hierapolis. It is a Holy City established in the 2nd century B.C. situated atop the hot springs, called Pamukkale. Reportedly, St. Phillip was martyred and buried at Hierapolis. Further away is the Necropolis, a burial ground, which we did not visit.

But, Pamukkale is known best for its hot springs with cascades of calcium covering the rocks. Unfortunately, the water level was down to a very low level and the area looked quite dry. Nonetheless, we were amazed by the jaw-dropping scenery of the Pamukkale Hot Springs area. We even walked to a small pool to experience the water.

The Old Hot Springs Pool was full of people who were enjoying swimming.

We walked around to see some ruins, but we have seen so many ruins and they were becoming of less interest than in the first time.

Then, we headed to our hotel. On the way, we saw a hot springs fountain that was pretty dry. The hotel pool was all muddy and red in color. It was because of the minerals contained in the water. Reportedly, it was good therapeutically. But, no thanks!

The following day, we left Pamukkale and headed out to Bordrum. On the way, we made a stop at Afrodisias, the place where the love god Aphrodite was worshipped. However you add an explanation to the ruins, they remian piles of stones. 

 

On the way out of the site, we stopped at a museum where more stone sculptures were displayed. 

Laodicea Church was one of the seven churches in Asia Minor as explained in the Book of Revelation. This church was scolded by the Lord for its lukewarm attitude in serving God. This church used to be located near Pamukkale where the hot springs were not too hot, thus being lukewarm. The Bible really comes alive when you hear this kind of explanation. Reportedly, Collosae where the Collossean Church was established also was located near Pamukkale.   

All the time, love has been important to humanity. Thus, the act of worshipping the love god is expected to continue in any form. - Jeffrey