EUROPEAN ROUTE OF HISTORIC THERMAL TOWNS IN TURKEY
05.02.2021
Thermalism can be defined as the therapeutic use ofhot springs. Thermalism has been a common practice in Europe from ancient timesto the present day. Europe is home to many spa towns with different styles ofarchitecture and an array of spa traditions. This spa culture can truly beconsidered a unique European heritage.
There are three locations in Türkiye that are part of the European Routeof Historic Thermal Towns.
Afyonkarahisar is the capital of thermal tourism in Türkiye and is animportant center of culture, nature, and gastronomy. Afyonkarahisar has ahistory stretching back more than 5,000 years. It has been home to many empiressuch as those of the Hittites, Phrygians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, andOttomans. The thermal tradition first took form here in ancient times andwas continued by all societies that lived in the historic city.
Bursa is a modern, popular thermal tourist destination, which featuresmany Turkish baths and hammams. Bursa’s crystal-clear waters are rich inmagnesium, and are known as "Silver Waters." The thermal wateris well-known for treating rheumatic diseases, neuralgia, stressdisorders, sport injuries, and aiding in rehabilitation.
Pamukkale has been a tourist destination for morethan 2,000 years. Pamukkale is not only a natural wonder, but also a placewhere you can travel back in time by visiting the ancient city of Hierapolis.The ruins of the baths, the temples, and the other monuments of thisGraeco-Roman spa resort await visitors today. In Hierapolis, healing waters,superstition, and faith all intermingled in rituals that developed inconnection to the successive local cults and religions.