Pamukkale Ancient Pool

Pamukkale Ancient Pool, also known as Cleopatra’s Pool, is one of the most unique and historically rich thermal pools in the world. Located within the ancient city of Hierapolis, this naturally heated mineral pool has been a famous bathing spot for centuries, attracting visitors who seek both relaxation and the legendary healing properties of its waters.

The Pamukkale Ancient Pool is not just a place to swim; it is an experience that connects visitors to the ancient past, where Roman emperors, noblewomen, and even Cleopatra herself are believed to have bathed. With its submerged Roman columns, warm thermal waters, and breathtaking surroundings, the Pamukkale Ancient Pool offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to soak in history while enjoying one of nature’s finest gifts.

The History of Pamukkale Ancient Pool

The Pamukkale Ancient Pool has a history that dates back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods, when Hierapolis was a thriving spa city. The hot springs in this region were highly valued by the Romans for their supposed medicinal properties, and Hierapolis became a major health and wellness center.

Legend has it that Mark Antony gifted this pool to Cleopatra, believing that its mineral-rich waters would preserve her legendary beauty. Whether the Egyptian queen actually bathed here remains unknown, but the story has given rise to the popular name Cleopatra’s Pool.

In the 7th century, a devastating earthquake shook Hierapolis, causing several Roman columns and ruins to collapse into the pool, where they remain submerged to this day. This has transformed the Pamukkale Ancient Pool into a truly extraordinary swimming experience, allowing visitors to swim among ancient ruins while surrounded by history.

Why is Pamukkale Ancient Pool Special?

1. Warm, Mineral-Rich Thermal Waters

The water in Pamukkale Ancient Pool is naturally heated by underground geothermal activity, maintaining a temperature of around 36°C (96°F) year-round. This makes it perfect for swimming in any season, even during the colder months.

The pool’s thermal waters are rich in calcium, magnesium, bicarbonate, and sulfur, which are believed to offer various health benefits, including:

• Improved circulation and relaxation
• Relief from joint pain and muscle tension
• Skin rejuvenation and detoxification

Many visitors report feeling refreshed and revitalized after soaking in these mineral waters.

2. Swimming Among Ancient Roman Ruins

One of the most unique aspects of Pamukkale Ancient Pool is the submerged Roman ruins scattered across its floor. Massive columns, stones, and marble fragments from the ancient city of Hierapolis are visible beneath the crystal-clear waters, creating a surreal and breathtaking atmosphere.

Unlike any other hot spring in the world, swimming here feels like floating through history, with every ripple in the water revealing glimpses of an ancient civilization.

3. A Scenic Location in the Heart of Hierapolis

Pamukkale Ancient Pool is located within the Hierapolis Archaeological Site, meaning visitors can combine their visit to the pool with a tour of the surrounding ruins. Before or after swimming, visitors can explore:

• The Hierapolis Theater, offering panoramic views of the region
• The Necropolis, one of the largest ancient cemeteries in Turkey
• The Temple of Apollo, a sacred Roman temple dedicated to the god of the sun

Being surrounded by these historical wonders adds to the mystical charm of the Pamukkale Ancient Pool.

How to Visit Pamukkale Ancient Pool

1. Entrance Fees and Location

Pamukkale Ancient Pool is located inside the Hierapolis-Pamukkale Archaeological Site, and access to the pool requires an additional ticket on top of the standard entrance fee to Pamukkale.

• Pamukkale & Hierapolis Entrance Fee: Around 400-500 TL per person
• Pamukkale Ancient Pool (Cleopatra’s Pool) Entrance Fee: Around 200-250 TL for swimming

The pool is open daily, with operating hours typically from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, but it’s best to check for seasonal changes.

2. Best Time to Visit

• Early morning or late afternoon: To avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful swim.
• Spring and autumn: The most pleasant seasons to visit, with comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists.
• Winter: A unique experience, as the hot thermal waters provide warmth even in cold weather.

3. What to Bring

• Swimsuit and towel (you can also rent them at the site)
• Waterproof sandals (for walking around the pool area)
• Underwater camera or waterproof phone case (to capture the submerged ruins)
• Sunscreen (if visiting during the summer)

Other Attractions Near Pamukkale Ancient Pool

The Travertine Terraces of Pamukkale

Just a short walk from the pool, the world-famous white travertine terraces of Pamukkale offer stunning landscapes and warm, shallow pools where visitors can wade through the mineral-rich waters.

Hierapolis Archaeological Museum

Located within an ancient Roman bathhouse, the Hierapolis Museum showcases artifacts from the city’s history, including sculptures, sarcophagi, and inscriptions.

Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon Rides

For those seeking adventure, a hot air balloon ride over Pamukkale provides a bird’s-eye view of the travertines, Hierapolis, and the surrounding countryside.

Karahayıt Red Springs

A short drive from Pamukkale, the Karahayıt hot springs offer a different experience with red, orange, and green mineral deposits caused by high iron content in the water.

Tips for an Amazing Visit to Pamukkale Ancient Pool

1. Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful swim.
2. Be careful when walking on the submerged ruins, as they can be slippery.
3. Bring a waterproof camera to capture the stunning underwater ruins.
4. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if visiting in summer.
5. Pair your visit with a tour of Hierapolis and the travertines for a full Pamukkale experience.

Why You Should Visit Pamukkale Ancient Pool

Pamukkale Ancient Pool is not just a place to swim; it is a journey into history, nature, and relaxation. Whether you want to soak in the healing thermal waters, float among ancient Roman ruins, or experience a legendary site once favored by Cleopatra, this pool offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

A visit to Pamukkale Ancient Pool is a must for anyone exploring Turkey, as it combines history, wellness, and breathtaking scenery in one of the most extraordinary settings in the world.