Hierapolis

Hierapolis was established by King Eumenes 2 and was given the name of "Hiera" in honour of the wife of Telephos, the legendary establisher of the ancient Pergamon. Hierapolis was visited frequently by the people from the nearest cities and Laodicea - the ancient site established before Hierapolis, for using the thermal springs known for its curing properties to various illnesses. From 3rd century BC, as the fame of Hierapolis increased continually, migrations started from around and Hierapolis became an attractive and a favourable settlement, a rival city to Laodicea.

Hierapolis was given to the Roman Empire in 133 BC, in the will of Pergamon King, Attalos 2. Hierapolis reached its height and lived the most prosperous periods during the reign of Severus and his son Caracalla, around the years of 196AD and 215AD. A considerable development existed in the city, in art and culture. Many rich marble mines were founded and the marbles of Hierapolis were used in Hagia Sophia of Istanbul.

Hierapolis was governed by a Roman governor of Ephesus, in the Roman period. Sources stated that the city was also visited by Hadrian. With the division of the Roman Empire into two in 395 AD, the city was ruled by the Byzantine. Hierapolis became the capital of Phyrigia during the reign of Constantine.

The acceptance of Christianity created a new stage for the social and religious structure of Hierapolis' becoming a patriarchal centre. Also, in 80 AD, St. Philip, one of the 12 Apostles, was thought to have been killed in Hierapolis. Hierapolis was not reputed only for its thermal waters, but also for its various temples and social activities including the lively festivals and music concerts, favoured by all. Therefore, tourism was one of the main incomes of Hierapolis, during that era. Textile was also developed gradually and became the principal source of the city's prosperity. The city lost its prior importance from the early 6th century. Today the thermal waters of Hierapolis have become an interesting tourist centre for foreigners.