Ploutonion at Hierapolis
Plutonion
Known to the ancients as the "Gate of Hell," a cave where deadly carbon dioxide continuously rises from its opening, rediscovered in 2013.
The Ploutonion is a cave shrine dedicated to Pluto, god of the underworld. High concentrations of carbon dioxide constantly seep from the cave. In ancient times, priests led animals inside, where they suffocated as a demonstration of divine power. The site lies below the ancient theater and east of the ancient pool. The viewing stands and stone steps have been restored, but visitors can only look from behind the railings. Never approach the opening. It is included in the combined ticket, and a visit together with the theater takes about 20 minutes.
Opening hours
Same hours as Mianhuabao Scenic Area
Nearby sights
- Antique Pool (Cleopatra's Pool)
- Theatre of Hierapolis
- Hierapolis Archaeology Museum
- Pamukkale & Hierapolis
- Martyrium of St. Philip
- Frontinus Gate & Street
- Necropolis of Hierapolis
- Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon