Location
Overview
Hierapolis ("sacred city") completed the trio of Lycus-valley towns with Laodicea and Colossae. It was famous for its hot mineral springs and its dramatic white terraces.
Epaphras's labour
Paul commended Epaphras, who carried a deep concern for all three cities: "he hath a great zeal for you, and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis" (Colossians 4:13) — a glimpse of the gospel taking root across the valley.
The valley of churches
Though no letter is addressed to Hierapolis directly, its inclusion shows a network of young churches sharing teaching, prayer, and Paul's letters (Colossians 4:16).
A place of later witness
By strong early tradition the apostle Philip ministered and was martyred at Hierapolis, and a memorial church was later raised there in his honour.
Events Here
Epaphras labours in prayer for the church at Hierapolis
Scripture References
1 verseColossians1 verse
Colossians 4:13
For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis.
Archaeology & History
Hierapolis is modern Pamukkale, world-famous for its blinding-white travertine terraces formed by hot calcium-rich springs — the same warm waters that, cooling on their way to Laodicea, lay behind the "lukewarm" rebuke. Its extensive ruins, including a great theatre and the tomb traditionally linked to the apostle Philip, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Frequently asked about Hierapolis
Where is Hierapolis today?
Today, Hierapolis corresponds to Pamukkale, Turkey.
What does the name Hierapolis mean?
The name Hierapolis means “Sacred city”.
What happened at Hierapolis in the Bible?
Key biblical events at Hierapolis include epaphras labours in prayer for the church at hierapolis.
Where is Hierapolis first mentioned in the Bible?
Hierapolis is first mentioned in Colossians 4:13.
How often is Hierapolis mentioned in the Bible?
Hierapolis is mentioned in 1 verse across 1 book: Colossians.
How is Hierapolis connected to the Bible?
Paul names it in Colossians 4:13 as one of the three Lycus-valley cities (with Laodicea and Colossae) for which Epaphras laboured in prayer.
Where is Hierapolis?
In the Lycus valley of Asia Minor, at modern Pamukkale in Turkey, famous for its white mineral terraces.