In the 'white paradise' of Pamukkale, one of Turkey's popular tourism destinations in Denizli, tourism professionals believe they will have a good year.
In the world-renowned archaeological site of the 'white paradise,' Pamukkale, tourism professionals are anticipating a fruitful year. The number of tourists last year reached 2,200,171, approximately 210,000 more than the previous year, setting a new record and surpassing the visitor record of 2019. Gazi Murat Şen, Vice President of the Turkey Hoteliers Federation (TÜROFED), emphasized that Pamukkale is among the leading attractions for visitors among museums and archaeological sites in Turkey. Şen expressed joy in surpassing the previous year's figures, noting that they set a target of 2.5 million tourists entering 2023, but the earthquake disaster at the beginning of the year had an impact on not achieving this goal. However, he expressed greater optimism for the coming year, stating, 'Our hopes are much higher for the next year.'
Şen highlighted that the newly opened Karahayıt Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Hospital would be a significant factor in increasing the number of visitors to Pamukkale. He also mentioned that night-time tourism, starting in Hierapolis Ancient City along with Ephesus, would play a crucial role. He stated, 'Night tourism is a subject our Minister of Culture and Tourism values greatly. Especially during the hot summer months, we cannot guide our guests extensively in the heat, but with the start of night tourism, this effect will come into play, significantly increasing the number of visitors.'
Şen reminded that the Ministry of Culture and Tourism allocated approximately 1 billion Turkish liras for excavations in Hierapolis Ancient City. He emphasized that with this funding, both excavation work and certain projects would be realized, further boosting the number of visitors.