Pamukkale means "cotton castle" in Turkish. The Hierapolis springs have been used as a spa since the second century BC.
The Pammukale travertine features have their origins in the shifting of a fault in the valley of the Menderes river (between here and Denizli). As the fault shifted, very hot springs with a very high mineral content (notably chalk) arose at this location. Apart from the slightly radioactive minerals, the calcium and hydrogen carbonate react to create calcium carbonate (also known as travertine) and limestone. This is what gives Pamukkale it's whiteness and created the pools. ("Wikitravel")
Will write about these later. Meanwhile, some pics. Hope all are well. Ash
