Can you bathe in Pamukkale?

Pamukkale is a beautiful natural phenomenon. In Pamukkale, you can see a fascinating network of a mineral landscape with magnificent white terraces filled with turquoise water built up for centuries by running water. The terraces consist of travertines, sedimentary rocks that are deposited by the water from the hot springs. In nature, travertines occur at hot springs and geysers. There are 17 thermal springs in the area and you can still swim in these natural pools today!

Temperature

The water from the springs in the natural pools has a temperature of about 35 degrees and is considered to be good for your health. It is said to have a medicinal or beneficial effect on cardiovascular diseases, digestive disorders, kidney problems, and rheumatism. In any case, half an hour’s swimming in one of the hot springs will give you a relaxed feeling.

Ancient spa resort

The healing power of the springs was already used at the end of the second century. The extraordinary landscape was the center of a health resort in ancient times and already attracted many pilgrims. The ruins of the old baths and other monuments can still be seen. For hundreds of years, people have been bathing in the springs. At the end of the 2nd century, the kings of Pergamon built a thermal spa here. From around 1950, when tourism in Turkey began to take off, hotels were built on the ruins of Hierapolis and people swam in the naturally formed pools.

UNESCO World Heritage List

When the area became a world heritage site in 1988, the hotels had to be demolished again. The hotels were rebuilt further inland, now with artificial swimming pools with the spring water. Pamukkale and Hiërapolis were restored to their original state as much as possible.

When to visit Pamukkale?

The hot springs in Pamukkale can be visited all year long. Every season has its charms. The weather in spring and autumn isn’t too hot, and in summer there are festivals to enjoy. Also, winter is beautiful in Pamukkale. Don’t forget to bring a bag for your shoes as you are only allowed to walk bare feet on the white terraces. Also, it’s a good idea to wear your swimwear underneath your clothes and bring suncream.