Hierapolis/Koçhisar is an important ancient city located within the borders of Sandıklı district, Afyonkarahisar province, modern Turkey, at the intersection of the ancient regions of Phrygia and Pisidia. This settlement, particularly notable for its coinage during the Roman Imperial period, became a regional center thanks to its fertile lands and strategic location. Known as Hierapolis in antiquity, the city is today referred to as Koçhisar.

History

The foundation of Hierapolis/Koçhisar, like many other cities in the region, dates back to the Hellenistic period, specifically the 3rd century BCE. The city was founded under the influence of either the Seleucid Empire or the Kingdom of Pergamon and likely derived its name from a sacred cult or temple (the word "Hierapolis" means "Sacred City"). With Rome's expansion into Anatolia in the 2nd century BCE, Hierapolis also came under Roman rule and was incorporated into the province of Asia. The city experienced significant development, particularly during the Roman Imperial period, increasing its prosperity from the reign of Emperor Augustus onwards. Hierapolis maintained its importance until the 3rd century CE, continued its existence during the Byzantine period, but gradually diminished in significance and size. The city's history is closely linked to the political and cultural changes in the region, bearing traces from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods.

Geographic Location

Hierapolis/Koçhisar is located in the interior of Western Anatolia, within the borders of the Sandıklı district of Afyonkarahisar province, modern Turkey. The ancient city, with coordinates 38.461767, 30.197699, was founded at the foothills of the mountainous terrain forming the natural boundary between the regions of Phrygia and Pisidia, in a fertile valley floor. This strategic location not only provided suitable ground for agricultural activities but also allowed the city to be situated on important trade routes in the region. Other significant ancient cities such as Apameia, Eumeneia, and Synnada are located in its vicinity. The area where the city is situated is rich in water resources, a factor that played a critical role in the development of the settlement.

Significance in Antiquity

Hierapolis/Koçhisar held regional significance in antiquity, both economically and religiously. The city's fertile lands contributed to the regional economy by promoting agricultural production. Furthermore, its location on routes leading from the interior to the coast or other major centers transformed the city into a hub for trade and transit. Politically, during the Roman Empire, it assumed administrative functions as part of the provincial government, maintaining its local administration through its own council and magistrates. Religiously, the city's name "Hierapolis" indicates the presence of an important cult center or temple here. Temples dedicated to regional deities and the imperial cult played a central role in the city's religious life.

Coinage

Hierapolis/Koçhisar was an important city with the right to mint coins. It struck its own coins, particularly during the Roman Imperial period, from the reign of Emperor Augustus until the mid-3rd century CE. The coins struck by the city were generally bronze, featuring portraits of emperors, members of the imperial family, and depictions of local gods or goddesses. These coins also display local characteristics such as the city's Tyche (goddess of fortune), river gods, mythological scenes, or architectural structures of the city. The reverses of the coins typically bear Greek inscriptions, including the city's name or the names of relevant magistrates. The coinage of Hierapolis/Koçhisar provides valuable numismatic evidence reflecting the city's economic power, its relations with Rome, and its local cultural identity. These coins offer critical information for understanding the city's political status and regional importance.

Archaeological Remains

The archaeological remains preserved at Hierapolis/Koçhisar reveal the ancient city's past splendor. Spread throughout the site, these remains include traces of the city walls forming its defensive system, a theater used for public gatherings and performances, the main marketplace known as the agora, and the foundations of administrative buildings. Furthermore, numerous tomb structures and sarcophagus remains are found in the necropolis areas. Architectural fragments and sculptures from temples where worship took place in the city have also been unearthed during excavations. These remains provide significant information about the city's planning, architecture, and daily life, helping us understand the development of Hierapolis/Koçhisar in antiquity.

Today

The ancient city of Hierapolis/Koçhisar is located near the village of Koçhisar, which is part of the Sandıklı district of Afyonkarahisar province, modern Turkey. Although the site is situated amidst modern settlements, it holds significant archaeological potential. Visitors can reach Koçhisar village to partially view the remains of the ancient city and experience the historical fabric of the region. Access is provided by road from Afyonkarahisar to Sandıklı, and then by following the village road.