Hierapolis was already a spa in 200 BC due to its location right next to the hot springs of Pamukkale.
We climb past the extensive necropolis, which contains over 1,000 tombs, to the ruins of the octagonal St Philip Martyrium. There is some debate of whether it was built in memory of the apostle Philip or the later disciple Philip the Evangelist.
We are told that Philip converted 80,000 pagans in Hierapolis before being martyred. I want to hear more: How did the conversion of so many people happen? What is the symbolic significance of the octagon? But as usual, all is shrouded in mystery.
One thing I am pretty certain of: Whether it is Philip, the apostle, or Philip, the evangelist, who was originally buried here: Both would have probably found it strange that such a large memorial was built commemorating death. I can almost hear them murmur: “You are missing the point. Never mind my death. Jesus has offered me life after death, and he is offering the same to you!”
