Located 79 kilometers from Yozgat city center, the Sarıkaya Hot Springs are among Turkey’s most important health tourism destinations. With a history stretching back to the Hittite era, the region has witnessed civilizations from the Assyrians to the Romans, all drawn to its therapeutic thermal waters.
During the Roman period, Sarıkaya became a well-known spa town, and to this day, it continues to welcome visitors seeking relief from chronic ailments. The area is especially popular during the winter months, thanks to its steamy mineral baths and rich natural healing properties.
The Roman bathhouses in Yozgat. Bath culture is an old heritage in Anatolia.
Why Sarıkaya Hot Springs Are Special
Sarıkaya distinguishes itself among Central Anatolia’s thermal sites with hot water temperatures reaching 48°C and a high flow rate of 28 liters/second. The water contains fluoride-rich, oligometallic properties, making it ideal for various therapeutic treatments.
Because the natural water temperature is high, it is cooled to a more comfortable 38–40°C before being used in thermal pools and bathhouses.
Hammam culture is an old tradition of our ancestors and us
Health Conditions Treated:
- Rheumatic diseases (osteoarthritis, hip calcifications)
- Degenerative joint issues
- Sciatica and herniated disc pain
- Women’s health issues (including menstrual pain and infections)
- Kidney, liver, and gallbladder stones
- Skin diseases
- Post-surgery rehabilitation (especially orthopedic recovery)
These healing waters are officially recognized by the Turkish Ministry of Health for their proven benefits.
There are plenty of hot springs hotels in Sarıkaya
A Legendary Past: The Tale of the King’s Daughter
Local legends give Sarıkaya a mystical aura. The most famous is the “King’s Daughter Bath” story, dating back to the Roman era. According to the tale:
A Roman king’s daughter, suffering from severe rheumatism, was brought to the then-deserted lands of Sarıkaya. After bathing in the muddy thermal waters, her pain miraculously vanished. Delighted, the king ordered a large pool to be built at the site, which soon became a settlement center.
This historical tale connects seamlessly with today’s Basilica Therma, a Roman bathhouse still partially standing. Visitors can view the western façade, featuring vaulted rooms and ten arches, suggesting a grand two-story structure that once welcomed Roman nobility.
Modern Facilities & Accommodation
Today, Sarıkaya combines its rich history with modern wellness infrastructure. Its close proximity to Kozaklı thermal center and ease of access from Central Anatolia’s major cities like Kayseri make Sarıkaya a convenient and rewarding destination for both short stays and extended healing retreats.
Plan Your Visit to Sarıkaya
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a wellness traveler, or someone seeking natural remedies, Sarıkaya Hot Springs offer an unforgettable blend of ancient legacy and modern comfort. From legendary stories to medically approved healing, Sarıkaya remains a shining jewel in Turkey’s health tourism landscape.
