Hierapolis

Stoicism was begun here. Found today by the town of Pamukkale, Hierapolis was a thriving Hellenistic city.

Most importantly for us, St. Philip was crucified and buried here.

Walking through the extensive ruins of the city, one is first struck by the massive mineral pools that were held to hold healing healthiness. Cascading off the southeast side of the hilltop city, which was otherwise ringed round by the city wall, they still are impressive today.










Formed mostly from calcium, they are very white.












And somewhat blue:













And all very pretty:













Continuing into the center of the city, you find the well-preserved theater.












Where's the show?




From the city you had to go even further up the hill to the site of Philip's grave, where a massive eight sided church had been built.






It's hard to spot the 8 sides from the ruins.




Philip's body (which was later taken to Constantinople, and then to Dodici Apostles a few blocks from my home in Rome), was buried under the main altar.










Right about where that green shrub is growing.



We prayed there at the site of the tomb and then started the hike down to the north end of the city.










Taking us past the Agora.




And into the sunset:










Time to head home.




Or actually, to our nearby hotel. Which also had a very hot mineral pool. Which nicely complemented the indoor pool which followed it. And the delicious dinner after. Which commemorated well today's celebration of the Triumph of the Cross.