Pamukkale, Textiles, Cock

Nestled in the high mountains near the Buyuk Menderes (Meander) River is Denizli. Surrounded by the natural beauty of a verdant valley, the area is also rich in culture and history. The Luvians were the first inhabitants, followed centuries later by the Hittites. Throughout time the fertile plain nourished other civilizations: The Phrygians, Lydians, Persians, Macedonians, Romans, Byzantines, SeIjuks, and the Ottomans. Modern Denizli is a city of wide streets with parks and hotels. The Ataturk Ethnography Museum in the city center displays folk art and ethnic artifacts. While shopping in the Kaleici Carsisi look for souvenirs of copper, jewelry, towels and silk blouses. You can choose among nearby Camlik, Incilipinar or Gokpinar Parks for a rest, picnic, or simply a walk through the forest in the shade of pine trees. Fresh water springs and thermal baths attract many visitors.

There are 40,000 looms in Denizli and its surroundings which has made great advances in industry. A total of 30 percent of the population earn their living from the textile industry. Pamukkale, which is known as a miracle of nature throughout the world, besides its beneficial thermal springs, has been a center of recreation and has been visited with pleasure since the Roman Period. The heat of the water at the output of the spring is 36 degrees Celsius. During the flow of the waters of the natural spring, the carbon-dioxide evaporates and the water with calcium-bicarbonate cools down, precipitates and creates layers, forming the Pamukkale travertines of today. This unique natural wonder is the focal point of tourism in the region. Another thermal center northwest of Pamukkale is Karahayit, known for its water's high iron content. Honaz Dagi National Park is 20 km east of Denizli, near the town of Honaz. Mt. Honaz is one of the most beautiful and highest peaks (2528 m) in the Aegean region. It is covered with a gorgeous alpine forest. Of the counties of Denizli, surrounded by the ancient cities such as Laodicea and Colossae, Guney is famous for its wines and falls, Buldan is known for its weaving looms and Cal is known for its vineyards.