Northern Necropolis in Hierapolis The northern necropolis of Hierapolis is one of the largest known ancient cemeteries in the area of present-day Turkey. Its area covers both sides of the ancient road leading from Hierapolis to Tripolis, Philadelphia, and Sardis, for a distance of about two kilometres from the city gate. To view the area thoroughly, it is most convenient to start exploring Hierapolis from the northern entrance. Most of the burials in its area are dated from the second century BC