Travertine Pools of Pamukkale, Turkey

The Travertine Pools of Pamukkale are as wonderful to behold as they are ethereal-looking. Over the years, white travertine mineral deposits have built up in this area of hot springs, creating a series of white terraces. These natural pools are blindingly white and filled with clear blue waters. These strange terraced pools have been appreciated for at least 2,000 years, and they’re sure to last for many more.

Pamukkale means “cotton castle” in Turkish, and, if you look at this construction of travertine pools and hot springs, you really understand where this name originates from. Strongly resembling snowy mountain peaks, you don’t even realize at first that not even a hint of snow can possibly exist under the burning sun of Pamukkale. But when you approach the pools closely you finally recognize the chalky and powdery texture of white pure-looking limestone that tastes nothing.

On the very top of the ‘white castle’ there’s an ancient city of Hierapolis that you should definitely go visit as well. Hierapolis takes up a sizeable territory and is super well preserved for something dating back to 3 century BC. This dead city is mostly notable for its Roman Theaterand Cleopatra’s Pool. According to the legend, this pool was a gift to Cleopatra, the last pharaoh of Ancient Egypt, from Mark Antony, her lover and husband. He most probably thought that swimming in carbonated water was the coolest idea ever and you know what, he was right. It is cool to see your skin covered with tiny sparkling bubbles under the Bonaqua-tasting water while you’re swimming around the ancient ruins of something that used to look magnificent before. Which it still does.