Landscape ObservatoryPamukkale

Deriving from springs in a cliff almost 200 m high overlooking the plain of Cürüksu in south-west Turkey, calcite-laden waters have created an unreal landscape, made up of mineral forests, petrified waterfalls and a series of terraced basins given the name of Pamukkale (Cotton Palace). Located in the province of Denizli, this extraordinary landscape was a focus of interest for visitors to the nearby Hellenistic spa town of Hierapolis, founded by the Attalid kings of Pergamom at the end of the 2nd century B.C., at the site of an ancient cult. Its hot springs were also used for scouring and drying wool.The combination of striking natural formations and the development of a complex system of canals, bringing the thermal water to nearby villages and fields, is exceptional. The springs are the source of a hydraulic system extending 70 km northwest to Alasehir and westwards along the valley of the Menderes River. Pamukkale forms an important backdrop to the original Greco-Roman town of Hierapolis and the cultural landscape which dominates the area.It is proposed to intervene in this singular space, being the choice of the participant to be located where they prefer within this natural setting. Although the area of intervention will be free, reTH!NKING haS proposed an area of general intervention that can be seen in the planimetry provided.The enclave does not have physical barriers separating the area of actionOf the rest, that is, it will be possible to define the limits of the intervention.

The project must be a unique place that produces its own identity in the area and turns the enclave into a landmark of environmental protection that proposes a need to take care of the existing environmental balance. The proposal must dialogue with the landscape and nature and that relates its visitors with this particular environment.This program is orientative and can be modified by the contestant.Project freedom is absolute and the area of intervention is free, this contest proposes that the participant investigate the forms of intervention in a singular landscape - Study limits, scales, views, access, materiality are the keys to follow.