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Cleopatra Pool

Cleopatra Pool in Pamukkale, Turkey - thermal ancient pool

Cleopatra Pool is a thermal pool within the ancient site of Hierapolis in Pamukkale, near the city of Denizli. It is part of the Hierapolis-Pamukkale archaeological complex, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In ancient times a covered colonnade surrounded the spring. A strong earthquake in the 7th century AD destroyed the structure, and fragments of columns, capitals and architectural details ended up in the water. Today they are visible on the bottom and give the pool its distinctive appearance. The site is also known as the Antique Pool.

The water comes from a hot mineral spring and contains dissolved minerals and carbon dioxide, which causes bubbles to rise to the surface. The temperature stays around 36°C year-round. Depths vary - from shallow sections to areas of about 2 m, so those who are not confident swimmers should stick to the shallows.

Bathing is paid and requires a separate ticket in addition to the entrance fee for Hierapolis-Pamukkale. The pool is open daily year-round, with hours depending on the season. On site there are changing rooms, showers, sun loungers, paid lockers and a café. The bottom is uneven and in places slippery due to stone blocks and mineral deposits - water shoes and caution on entry are recommended. Children are allowed only under adult supervision. Nearby are the Temple of Apollo and the Hierapolis Archaeological Museum, making it convenient to combine visits.

Features and rules for visiting Cleopatra Pool

Here warm mineral water and the sight of ancient fragments at the shore.

Cleopatra Pool

Thermal bathing among the Roman columns of Hierapolis

Inside the pool the column drums, fragments of cornices and slabs of the ancient colonnade are clearly visible. Visitors can swim among the ancient stone blocks and examine decorative details under the clear water. Rest areas are arranged around the perimeter, and entrances are equipped with stairways and handrails.

The water is warm and slightly carbonated, so a gentle play of bubbles is visible on the surface. The bottom has changes in depth and sections with large stones, and in places it is covered with mineral deposits. Jumping and diving are not allowed, and stepping on or climbing the ancient fragments is also prohibited. Water shoes are recommended for comfortable entry.

Tickets for bathing are purchased at the ticket office by the pool. Nearby there are cafés and sunlounger areas, as well as showers, toilets and paid lockers. It can be crowded in high season, so it is more convenient to plan a visit in the morning or later in the evening.

After bathing you can visit the nearby Temple of Apollo, the Plutonium and the large Roman theatre, and also stop by the Hierapolis Archaeological Museum. How to get there: dolmuş minibuses run from Denizli's central bus station to Pamukkale; from there enter Hierapolis with tickets - the pool is located in the central part of the complex and marked with signs.

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