Hundreds of years ago, people valued the Pamukkale springs, because they were famous throughout the world for their healing waters. At that time, people also visited the springs and could stay in the small town of Laodicea, which was located just a few kilometers away, on an unusually beautiful slope. This amazing settlement was founded in the 2nd century BC. Hundreds of years later, another majestic city, Hierapolis, was built in its place, the ruins of which can also be seen today.
The inhabitants of Laodicea, especially the rich, built a whole water pipeline through which the thermal waters of Pamukkale flowed into their own baths or pools. At first, this was done for their own benefit, and over time, a whole resort was opened. Only these diversions permanently damaged the thermal springs on the lower terrace. To relax and improve their health at the resort, rulers of different countries came here.
The resort town was built on a plateau between beautiful river valleys and mountain ranges. Two major trade routes passed through the mountains, thanks to which Laodicea prospered. It controlled these routes, traded with other cities its amazing black wool, which was then used to make carpets, clothes and even shoes. It became famous for its excellent medical school and the production of eye ointment.
Balneological resort was built as a fortress, but a water supply system was installed, which ran underground for 10 km. Water entered the city through it, and during a siege, enemies easily destroyed it, as a result of which the fortress was left without water. At first, it was subject to Byzantium, and in 1097, Turkish troops decided to take over the settlement in a battle, and it was destroyed.
To date, scientists and archaeologists have managed to excavate a huge part of the ruins of Laodicea. Here you can see an amphitheater, a large and small theater, a stadium and even a nymphaeum. In addition, there are remains of thermal pools and temples. The central street of the settlement with the ruins of residential buildings was excavated. It is in this place that excavations of the ancient Laodicean church are being carried out, which is the main attraction of this area.
You will not regret coming here, because such historical values attract with their mystery and beckon with the unknown.
