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The Sculpture Colony, located in the ancient city of Hierapolis, is an important archaeological site showcasing Roman-era sculptures.

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The ancient city of Hierapolis is an important ancient settlement located in the Phrygian region, within the borders of today's Pamukkale district of Denizli. Believed to have been founded in the 2nd century BC by Eumenes II, King of Pergamon, the city was named after Hiera, the wife of Telephus, the legendary founder of Pergamon. Hierapolis experienced significant development during the Roman Empire, becoming famous especially for its thermal waters and sacred sites. One of the most striking structures of the ancient city, the Sculpture Colony, is located on Frontinus Street, the city's main thoroughfare. This street was an important artery connecting the city's north and south gates. The Sculpture Colony consisted of statues placed on pedestals lined up on both sides of the street. These statues typically depicted emperors, gods, goddesses, and prominent figures of the city. Most of the statues were made of marble, offering important examples of Roman art and sculpture. The colony played a significant role in the social and political life of the city, becoming a public space that attracted the attention of both residents and visitors. Today, many of the statues and pedestals from the Sculpture Colony are exhibited in the Hierapolis Archaeology Museum.

tips_and_updatesVisit Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes to explore the entire ancient city of Hierapolis.
• When visiting the Sculpture Colony, you can also visit the nearby Hierapolis Archaeology Museum to see the original forms of the sculptures.
• Especially in summer, remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
• Plan to visit other important structures of the ancient city, such as the theater, baths, and necropolis.
• Allocate enough time to visit both the Pamukkale travertines and Hierapolis together.