Pamukkale - As we approached from the southern entrance, we were shocked by the whiteness of the travertines here.
As the day wore on and the sun came out in full force, I couldn�t help but be reminded of a favorite late '70s pop song called �Blinded by the light.� The hot sun reflected off the calcified stones, which later resulted in some spicy sunburns as well.
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The rocks look like they are almost covered in snow, but they aren't. :-) I had seen many photos of Pamukkale online, but still I was amazed at this site - nothing like I have ever seen before. I�m sure it�s a natural wonder I�ll never see again. I'm thrilled we were able to share this experience with my husband's parents too. 
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According to the Pamukkale guide book I bought on-site:
�the thermal waters, which are on an important fault line in western Anatolia, are heated by subterranean heat. The waters, which contain calcium hydro carbonate in its formation, come out of the ground at 33-36 C. The water loses its warmth and thus the carbon dioxide and the carbon monoxide are released and the calcium carbonate is precipitated.�
Unfortunately, the travertines used to be even more beautiful - as is evidenced in old photos found online or in books - and more were open to the public. However, years of neglect and too many tourists destroyed some of the travertines, which are now closed off and have reverted to an ugly gray color.
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| You were forbidden to walk on this old section of the travertines. |
In 1988, the area of Pamukkale and the neighboring ancient city of Hierapolis was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. From what I understand, the Turkish government later sought assistance; and in 2006, UNESCO stepped in to help restore the natural whiteness of the travertines. To maintain the travertines, the water flow now is controlled through select channels and reaches the terraces according to a weekly watering schedule.
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| The water flow is now controlled through channels in the rock like this one. |
Walking barefoot on the calcified rocks, you may think you might slip, but you don�t. Because of the flowing waters, the rocks have rippled grooves in them.
We had an enjoyable experience in Pamukkale and absolutely loved our small hotel, the Melrose House Hotel. Here's that post: Pamukkale - Where to Stay - The Best Small Hotel.
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| Hubby's foot in the cool waters at Pamukkale. |
The landscape of Turkey continues to amaze me.
This summer, we have a few more road trips in Turkey planned. Stay tuned!
Tip: Arrive first thing in the morning so you can avoid some of the crowds.
Admission: 20 TL
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| At the top located in Hierapolis, you'll find a few ancient sarcophagus embedded into the travertines. |