The necropolis of Hierapolis is one of the largest and best-preserved ancient cemeteries in Anatolia, stretching for over a kilometer along the roads out of the city, with more than a thousand tombs. Because people came to Hierapolis hoping the thermal waters would heal them, and many died here instead, the city grew an unusually vast burial ground, and its tombs run the full social range: plain stone sarcophagi, house-shaped tomb chambers and grand circular tumulus mounds for the wealthy, many still carrying their carved inscriptions. Wandering among them, largely undisturbed and free of crowds, is quietly atmospheric and gives a vivid sense of the ancient world's attitude to death and the afterlife. It lies at the northern end of the site, beyond the main baths and gate, so it pairs naturally with a walk out to the Martyrium. There is next to no shade, so the cool of early morning suits it best.
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