Discover Ancient Cities in Denizli

Although Denizli is known for its Pamukkale travertines, it actually harbors a deep geography of ancient cities. On our one-day route, starting from the vicinity of Hierapolis, we set out as a family to discover the lesser-known but impressive stops of this historical heritage stretching along the Menderes Valley. These free-to-visit places will not only be budget-friendly but also offer a pleasant journey through the dusty pages of history.

St. Philip's Bridge

We start the day with St. Philip's Bridge, which you can reach by passing through St. Philip's Gate, right next to the Ancient City of Hierapolis. This 4th and 5th-century Roman bridge is part of the pilgrimage route to the sanctuary of St. Philip, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. Built to cross the small valley carved by winter floods, it is an important trace of the early Christian period. Looking at the Hierapolis plain from here, you can feel how time flows.

Colossae Ancient City

After St. Philip's Bridge, we turn our route towards Honaz district, along the Aksu Stream. Colossae Ancient City, despite being one of the important cities of Great Phrygia, still stands today as an unexcavated mound. This place, mentioned in Christian history with the Epistle to the Colossians, bears silent witness to history amidst nature with ancient aqueduct traces on the slopes of Honaz Mountain. This mound, not yet fully unearthed, is a stop that will feed your imagination.

In the afternoon, we proceed towards the Menderes River, towards Buldan.

Tripolis Ancient City

Tripolis Ancient City is a city established on the slope where the Lykos Valley meets the Menderes River, which existed from the Hellenistic period until the 7th century AD. The fact that it was one of the rare cities that sent senators during the Roman period shows its importance. It is quite impressive with its 8,000-seat theater, mosaic-decorated residences, and a colonnaded street approximately 450 meters long. Especially the remains of the Orpheus Fountain and the pavilion with a fish pond are worth seeing. Since excavation works are ongoing, you can discover new things with each visit.

Trapezapolis Ancient City

After Tripolis, we move on to Trapezapolis Ancient City, located in the same region, in Bekirler village, connected to Babadag district. This ancient city, located at the intersection of Lycia, Phrygia, and Lydia, was founded under the name Apollonia in the Hellenistic period. It continued its existence until the 7th century AD and, like Tripolis, sent senators to the Roman Empire. Here you can also see the remains of the Roman theater, the colonnaded street, and the agora. The proximity of the two cities makes it easy to visit both in the same day.

These ancient stops in Denizli are ideal for a family trip that is both immersed in history and budget-friendly during the summer months. Put on your walking shoes and don't forget to bring plenty of water. Watching the sunset against the Menderes Valley will make you forget the day's fatigue.

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