Explore the main Hierapolis monuments: house-type terrace tombs, ancient theatre, and necropolis. All included in your Pamukkale & Hierapolis entrance ticket. Opening hours and visitor tips.
Hierapolis, the ancient city above Pamukkale's travertines, holds three major monument groups: the house-type terrace tombs, the ancient theatre, and the vast necropolis. All are included in your Pamukkale & Hierapolis entrance ticket. This guide covers what to see at each, opening hours, and how to secure your tickets in advance.
Hierapolis Monuments: Overview
Founded around 190 BCE by King Eumenes II of Pergamon, Hierapolis flourished as a Roman and Byzantine healing center. The city's monuments reflect its wealth and cosmopolitan character. The main structures—terrace-style house tombs, theatre, and necropolis—are spread across the plateau and can be explored in a single visit.
1. Terrace Houses (House-Type Tombs)
In the Hierapolis Necropolis, the "terrace houses" refer to the house-type tombs—structures built like small temples or dwellings. They often have columns, pediments, and interior chambers. Unlike simple sarcophagi, these tombs were built for wealthy families and high-ranking officials. Many remain partially buried; the visible ones offer a glimpse into Roman funerary architecture.
What to look for:
- Columns and pediments resembling temple facades
- Interior chambers that held multiple family members
- Inscriptions and reliefs on the exterior
- Limestone and marble construction
Excavations have also uncovered Hellenistic-period residential house remains in the northern part of the city, near the agora—evidence of daily life in ancient Hierapolis.
2. Hierapolis Ancient Theatre
The theatre is one of Turkey's best-preserved Roman theatres. Built around 129 CE under Emperor Hadrian and renovated under Septimius Severus (193–211 CE), it could seat 12,000–15,000 spectators. The three-story stage building (scaenae frons) features marble reliefs depicting Dionysus and imperial themes. The theatre faces west, offering stunning views over the Lycus Valley.
Highlights:
- Exceptional natural acoustics
- Marble stage with elaborate reliefs
- Panoramic valley views
- Restored 2004–2014
3. Hierapolis Necropolis
The Hierapolis Necropolis is the largest ancient cemetery in Turkey—over 1,200 tombs spanning 2 km along the northern edge of the city. It includes the house-type terrace tombs, sarcophagi, tumuli, and simple graves. Tomb inscriptions reveal a multicultural society of Greeks, Romans, Jews, and early Christians.
| Monument | Description | Allow |
|---|---|---|
| House-type terrace tombs | Temple-like structures for wealthy families | 30–45 min (within necropolis) |
| Hierapolis Theatre | Roman theatre, 12,000+ capacity | 30–45 min |
| Necropolis | 1,200+ tombs, sarcophagi, tumuli | 30–45 min |
Ticket Info: All Monuments Included
One Pamukkale & Hierapolis entrance ticket covers all three monument groups—terrace house tombs, theatre, and necropolis—plus the travertines and all other ruins. No separate ticket is required. Cleopatra's Pool is the only attraction that needs an add-on ticket.
Buying your tickets online saves time and guarantees entry. Skip the queue at the ticket office and go straight to the entrance with your mobile or printed ticket. Cancellation policy: Tickets are non-refundable once purchased (no cancel).
Planning a visit? Get your Pamukkale & Hierapolis entrance tickets online and skip the queue.
View Pamukkale & Hierapolis Tickets →
Hierapolis Monuments: Opening Hours 2026
All monuments share the same opening hours as the main site:
- Summer (April 1 – October 31): 08:00 – 19:30. Last entry 18:30.
- Winter (November 1 – March 31): 08:00 – 17:30. Last entry 16:30.
The site is open daily, including public holidays. Allow 2–3 hours to explore the terrace tombs, theatre, and necropolis. Combine with the travertine terraces for a full-day visit.
How to Reach the Monuments
Enter at the North Gate for the most logical route. You'll pass the necropolis (including house-type terrace tombs) first, then the theatre, then the Colonnaded Street toward the travertines. From the South Gate, walk north to reach the theatre and necropolis. The house-type tombs are scattered within the necropolis along the northern approach.
Visitor Tips for the Hierapolis Monuments
- Wear comfortable shoes—marble and limestone paths can be uneven
- Bring water and sunscreen—shade is limited
- Do not climb on tombs or theatre seating—structures are protected
- Stay on designated paths—respect the archaeological site
- Visit early morning or late afternoon—better light and fewer crowds
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the terrace houses in Hierapolis?
The "terrace houses" in Hierapolis refer to the house-type tombs in the necropolis—structures built like small temples or dwellings with columns, pediments, and interior chambers. They were built for wealthy families. Hellenistic residential house remains have also been found in the northern city area.
Are the Hierapolis monuments included in the Pamukkale ticket?
Yes. The terrace house tombs, theatre, and necropolis are all included in the main Pamukkale & Hierapolis entrance ticket. No separate ticket is required for any of these monuments.
How long does it take to see the Hierapolis monuments?
Allow 2–3 hours for the terrace tombs, theatre, and necropolis. A full visit including the travertines typically takes 4–6 hours.
What are the opening hours for Hierapolis?
Summer (April–October): 08:00–19:30, last entry 18:30. Winter (November–March): 08:00–17:30, last entry 16:30. The site is open daily year-round.
Can I buy Pamukkale tickets online?
Yes. Buying Pamukkale & Hierapolis tickets online lets you skip the queue and guarantees entry. You'll receive instant confirmation. Tickets are non-refundable (no cancel policy).
Ready to Explore the Hierapolis Monuments?
The terrace house tombs, ancient theatre, and necropolis are highlights of any Pamukkale visit. Plan your route, follow the visitor rules, and secure your entrance tickets in advance for a smooth, queue-free experience.
