This wonderful place has come about by the waters leaving its dregs on a platform which is 150m higher the the Lycos valley which is to the north of Denizli and which is approximately 4km of the south skirts of the Salpak Mountains- and forming hills there.
At the same time it being closed to the tough and cold air currents emphasizes the importance of mineral waters. The famous travertines are caused by the waters which are a mixture of carbondioxide and calcium runing down the souther flanks.
Many mineral springs which are connected to the big fault at Buyuk Menderes Valley, are hot underground waters which come from far places. In this flat place where earlier Hierapolis used to be there were many hot water springs at different temperatures. Other then the big main spring which is now being run by a motel (in the swimming pool of this motel there are antique columns) there is another one which sprang open in the earthquake in the nineteenth century. The temperature of both spring is about 35%C. These hot waters were very important in the antique city and through ancient sources we learn that there also was a cult of Heracles, the God of health and hot waters.
Because there are carbondioxide compounds in the composition of the water, the water comes up above the ground, and as a result of this, the calcer, which would get separated from the carbondioxide gas, precipitates to the ground, and forms white layers and dregs on the soil. These travertines, which are white, gradually get darker due to contact with air. That is why the waters have to run constantly. The very dark parts are the areas where the waters don't flow regularly. But then again the flowing of the water in the form of small cascades has helped the nature to from fine high- relief and figures of such high art that even the work of the most talented master cannot be compared to.
To see these natural figures, to watch the playful water and the sun in the small lakes on the terraces, to appreciate travertines whilst walking up to the remnants from the Ecirli Village, and taking a look at the green and wide valley after reaching the top, is something that gives us infinite pleasure.
To see the settling of the elements in the water is enough to make a small experiment. First, some oil, a bottle, a broom, and an earthen pitcher are put under the cascades; then, after waiting for two days, it can be seen that these have turned totally white. Plus, the water of Pamukkale is clear, drinkable, soft and a little bitterish.
This waters have been good for coroner disease, high blood pressure and arteriosclerosis. In parallel, same as the Pergamon Asklepion, where emotional illnesses were treated by inculcation, patients here were treated with water. Another speciality of this water is, that it cures skin diseases, especially allergic cases, and it is also goo in strengthening and curing eye muscles. The clergy in antique times, by the help of this water, used to create miracles. Many temples were built in order to treat people, and the priests would take care of their patients in these temples.
Not only ill people would come to the spas. Counsils, kings and philosophers too, would visit Hierapolis to have fun and to entertain themselves. The water has had many impacts on the city. The amount of visitors getting wealthier, the increase of in population, and the development of the city itself through an increase of beautiful architectural pieces. The numerous motels and spas which have been trying to serve many sick people is a very goo example to the above mentioned situation.
Pamukkale Waters
The analysis measures and the composition.
