Hierapolis Ancient City

Hierapolis Ancient City — Hierapolis is a Greco-Roman and Byzantine ancient city on the plateau directly above the Pamukkale travertines, founded around 190 BC and known for its well-preserved Roman theatre, an extensive necropolis, and the Martyrium of St. Philip. It’s covered by the same combined ticket as the travertines below.

Why visit Hierapolis Ancient City? (Hierapolis Ancient City)

Founded under the Attalid kings of Pergamon, Hierapolis grew around the same thermal springs that formed the travertines, which ancient residents believed carried healing and even sacred properties — the city functioned partly as a spa destination even in antiquity. Its Roman theatre, built into the hillside, is one of the best-preserved in the eastern Mediterranean, with its elevated seating giving genuine panoramic views alongside the historical interest. The necropolis is one of the largest in Turkey, with hundreds of tombs spanning Hellenistic, Roman and early Christian periods. Tradition holds that the Apostle Philip was martyred at Hierapolis, and the Martyrium built to commemorate him remains one of the site’s most significant structures for understanding the city’s early Christian history.

Source: UNESCO World Heritage — Hierapolis-Pamukkale.

What should I know before visiting?

• Wear real walking shoes here — unlike the travertines below, Hierapolis doesn’t require bare feet.
• The site is large; budget at least 2–3 hours to see the theatre, necropolis and main street properly.
• Little shade exists across most of the ruins — sun protection matters, especially midday in summer.
• The archaeological museum, included in the combined ticket, is worth the extra 30–45 minutes if you have time.

How much are tickets and what are the hours?

Covered by the same combined Pamukkale-Hierapolis ticket, approximately €30. Hours match the travertines — 06:30–21:00 in summer, 08:00–18:00 in winter.

How do I get to Hierapolis from Pamukkale center?

Enter via the South or North Gate at the top of the plateau, both a short taxi or dolmuş ride from Pamukkale village, or walk up through the terraces from the town entrance if you’re visiting both together.

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