Agora of Hierapolis
Agora of Hierapolis features on the Gingerguide audio walk through Pamukkale. Give it roughly ~30 min: enough to look, hear a two to three minute story on the spot, and ask the AI guide whatever the story leaves open.
- Type historic
- Suggested visit ~30 min
- Pamukkale Pamukkale guide
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About Agora of Hierapolis
One of the most extensive agoras in Roman Asia Minor, roughly 170 by 280 metres. An earthquake felled it, and its marble was later quarried for the city walls.
The Agora of Hierapolis occupied the northern part of the city, near the monumental Frontinus gate and the start of the necropolis. Measured at roughly 170 by 280 metres, it was one of the most extensive agoras in Roman Asia Minor, laid out in monumental form in the 2nd century AD after earlier earthquakes prompted relocation from a site near the cemetery. Long porticoes framed the square, and its eastern side was closed by a basilica-stoa rising up to about 20 metres, with a two-storey Ionic facade, Corinthian columns within, marble stairs and a central gateway carved with Erotes and lions.
An earthquake destroyed the complex in the 4th century AD, and in the 5th century its cut stone and marble were quarried to expand the city's defences. Little now survives in place: only foundations, scattered blocks and re-erected fragments mark the site, part of the Hierapolis-Pamukkale UNESCO World Heritage listing.
Did you know? At roughly 170 by 280 metres, this was one of the most extensive agoras in Roman Asia Minor. It was not the largest in the ancient world, a claim the evidence does not support.
How long is a visit to Agora of Hierapolis?
Set aside roughly ~30 min for Agora of Hierapolis. That covers a good look and the narrated story, and because you set the pace you can always stay on.
Is Agora of Hierapolis worth your time?
Agora of Hierapolis is among the 12 narrated highlights the Gingerguide team chose for Pamukkale, so it is worth a look. Hear the story for the context, then ask the AI guide for anything more.
Nearby stops in Pamukkale
Day 2 of the Pamukkale in 2 days itinerary →
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Hear the story of Agora of Hierapolis
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