The Geologic Oddity in Turkey; Pamukkale Hot Springs

Within Turkey is one of the most magnificent geologic features in the region. What you are looking at is a vast natural hot spring which contains a series of stunning white travertine terraces which act like steps in the landscape. Known as Pamukkale, these hot springs are more than 8,000 feet long and 525 feet tall. So, how did these unusual features form? Why do they have steps? This video will answer these two questions, and discuss this geologic wonder.

Google Earth imagery used in this video: ©Google & Data Providers

[Fattydeposit]

I visited this place in 2011. It's huge - the pictures can't do it justice, absolutely worth exploring if you're traveling through the region.

[GeologyHub]

These hot springs are one of the largest on the planet! I love the contrast of teal and white coloration. What are your thoughts on these fascinating and large travertine deposits?

[stihlnz]

Re New Zealand's pink and white terraces, a recent underwater map of the lakebed that buried them has found traces of them. Pictures of them look very similar to these.

[cmonkey]

I'm really enjoying these short but insightful videos. Makes for a refreshing break from the politics of the day. When I hear that a mineral spring has been going for over 1000 years, it lends a calming perspective. That's geology for you!

[drawnmyattention]

How beautiful. If only I could sit alone and quite still in one of those pastel springs, I might pull myself together.

[nicknichols]

Really do enjoy these videos on geologic wonders I've never heard of and are unlikely to ever see in person. Thank you from an armchair traveler!

[diannelavoie]

Those terraces are so beautiful. Stunning natural spectacle.

[doxielain]

I've been hang-gliding over this. There's a Roman ruin right there too. Such a cool experience.

[BoatyMcBoatface]

I had no idea I was about to get a chemistry lesson while I was looking at the purty pictures in this video. I love this channel, all the videos are comprehensive on the subject and succinct. Who doesn't have <5min to learn some super cool sciencey stuff? Thank you GH!

[suziperret]

Wow, I was there as a teenager in the late sixties…beautiful hot water to soak in..and what a vista.Today, my partner and I are using travertine in our house. Great explanation of how travertine is created! Thanks for the memories.

[chrishoward]

I’ve never had an interest in geology. You’re videos are informative and very interesting. You have a gift for explaining complicated sciences in an easily digestible way. Keep it up!

[lmrandlette]

Worth visiting - site includes extensive, well-preserved Roman ruins from the resort town of Hieropolis.

[gaius_enceladus]

Beautiful!
Very much reminds me of the famous Pink and White Terraces which were destroyed (or possibly buried) in NZ's Tarawera eruption in June 1886.

[MelanieCravens]

The Turkish word for cotton is Pamuk. These terraces are called Pamukkale in reference to their cotton-white coloration.

[BrilliantDesignOnline]

So gorgeous; I amazed at all the cool geological formations you find, I had never heard of. Thank you!

[WWZenaDo]

This would make the most gorgeous 3 to 8 hour long soothing relaxation video. Those terraces are amazing!!

[multitopicinterest]

This feature reminded me of the White and Pink terraces. They look beautiful and unusual !

[robzombieshot]

Beautiful... I love hearing about things like this too...

[robbabcock_]

Fascinating! They're beautiful and interesting features.

[rogeredrinn]

Your location maps and illustrations really set your videos apart from your peers. Would have liked a comparison to the Yellowstone hot springs (far north), which I have visited, they seem nearly identical.