Denizli Province, Turkey
The drop dies in the river / of its joy / pain goes so far it cures itself . . .
—Ghalib (1797–1869), Turkish poet, trans. W.S. Merwin
In an arid landscape the color of camels, Pamukkale (Cotton Palace) is a refreshing ancient thermal spa with mineral-rich waters that for millennia have tumbled down Caldag Mountain, leaving behind white travertine terraces. Here, too, are the ruins of Hierapolis (Holy City), a Greco-Roman community and religious retreat founded in the second century B.C. and later converted to Christianity by Philip the Apostle. The ruins include a cathedral, a baptistery, churches, and the tomb of the apostle Philip, who died there in A.D. 80.
Nestled in a surreal landscape of mineral forests, terraced basins, and petrified waterfalls, Pamukkale’s sacred warm water can baptize the spirit, soothe the soul, and restore a weary body. Sitting and wading (shoes prohibited) is free, but you must pay to swim. You can reach Hierapolis-Pamukkale from Denizli, the nearest city, by car or local bus, but be sure to go early as the tour buses bring large crowds.
Bathe in the springs as the faithful have been doing for thousands of years. Release all your worry and concerns. Pray for the restoration of perfect health in body, mind, and spirit, and offer a prayer of heartfelt thanks.
Since before the birth of Christ, the sick and infirm have come from far and wide to bathe in the warm waters of Hierapolis-Pamukkale, which are believed to have mystical healing powers.