Perge Ancient City

Perge Ancient City: A Timeless Journey into Antalya’s Glorious Past

Nestled in the heart of Antalya province, the ancient city of Perge (also spelled Perga) is a remarkable open-air museum that transports visitors back through the centuries. Located just 18 kilometers east of Antalya’s city center, Perge is one of Turkey’s most captivating and well-preserved archaeological sites. Once a thriving Roman city, Perge is today a testament to the grandeur of classical architecture, civic planning, and cultural life in antiquity.

A Historical Gem of Pamphylia

Perge was originally founded by the Hittites around 1500 BC, but it gained prominence under the Greeks and later flourished during Roman rule. It was one of the key cities of ancient Pamphylia, a region on the southern coast of Asia Minor. The city reached its zenith between the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, during the Roman Empire, becoming a center of commerce, art, and religion.

Perge was not only a political and economic hub but also a place of spiritual importance. According to Christian tradition, the Apostle Paul visited Perge during his first missionary journey, as recorded in the Bible (Acts 13:13). This adds religious significance to its historical appeal, drawing both history enthusiasts and pilgrims alike.

The Spectacular Entrance and Roman Road

Visitors enter Perge through its stunning Roman gate, an architectural wonder flanked by twin towers that date back to the Hellenistic period. Beyond the gate lies a well-paved colonnaded street stretching over 300 meters, flanked by elegant columns and lined with ancient shops and homes. A canal once ran along the center of this grand avenue, a sophisticated example of urban water management for its time.

Walking this ancient street is like stepping into a different world. The colonnaded boulevard offers a vivid glimpse into daily Roman life, where markets bustled with traders, philosophers debated in shaded porticos, and children played in marble courtyards. Every stone and pillar speaks volumes about the sophistication and urban planning of the ancient city.

The Great Theatre and Stadium

Perge boasts a magnificent Greco-Roman theatre that once seated up to 15,000 spectators. This structure is one of the best-preserved of its kind in Anatolia and was used for theatrical performances, political gatherings, and even gladiatorial combats. The stage’s intricate reliefs and carvings, some depicting mythological scenes, still command admiration.

Not far from the theatre lies one of the largest ancient stadiums in Turkey, capable of accommodating nearly 12,000 people. Its elongated shape and 70 vaulted arches showcase Roman engineering prowess. The stadium hosted athletic games and possibly wild animal shows, making it a central venue for entertainment.

The Agora, Baths, and Acropolis

The agora, or marketplace, is another highlight of Perge. Surrounded by columned porticoes, it served as the commercial heart of the city. Traders sold spices, textiles, and pottery here, and the remains of shops and storage areas are still visible.

Adjacent to the agora is the Roman bath complex, an impressive structure that highlights the social aspect of bathing in Roman times. The baths included cold (frigidarium), warm (tepidarium), and hot (caldarium) rooms, and their floors were heated using the hypocaust system — a marvel of ancient technology.

Perched on a hill overlooking the city is the acropolis, the original settlement area. Though less structurally intact than the lower city, it offers panoramic views of the ruins and the surrounding countryside — ideal for photography and quiet reflection.

Cultural and Artistic Legacy

Perge was a city of culture and creativity. It is known as the birthplace of the mathematician Apollonius of Perga, one of the great minds of the ancient world. The city was adorned with statues, mosaics, and decorative friezes, many of which have been relocated to the Antalya Museum, where visitors can view them up close.

Numerous inscriptions found at the site offer insights into the city’s governance, religious life, and civic pride. Decrees, dedications, and tombstones all paint a picture of a community rich in tradition and engaged in the philosophical and artistic movements of the era.

Tips for Visiting Perge

1. Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to explore Perge is in spring (April–June) or autumn (September–November), when temperatures are mild and the crowds are smaller. Summers can be quite hot, so bring water, a hat, and sunscreen.

2. Getting There: Perge is easily accessible from Antalya. You can take a local minibus (dolmuş), hire a taxi, or join a guided tour from the city center. Many tours include Perge as part of a day trip along with Aspendos and Side.

3. What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to uneven terrain. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone — the site is full of photogenic spots.

4. Facilities: There is a small visitor center, restrooms, and a ticket booth at the entrance. It's advisable to carry snacks and water, as amenities within the site are limited.

A Living Monument

Perge is more than just an archaeological site — it is a silent storyteller of civilizations that have come and gone. The stones whisper of emperors and scholars, of bustling markets and serene temples. Whether you're a history buff, a culture seeker, or simply a curious traveler, Perge offers a profound connection to the ancient world that few places can match.

As you walk through the ruins under the Mediterranean sun, surrounded by the scent of thyme and olive trees, you don’t just visit Perge — you experience it. And that experience is one that stays with you, long after you’ve left its marble columns behind.