Perge Ancient City: Walking Through The Glory of Pamphylia

INTRODUCTION TO PERGE

Just a short drive from Antalya, Perge (modern-day Aksu district) is one of Turkey’s most important archaeological sites. Once the capital of Pamphylia, this ancient city flourished under Hellenistic and Roman rule, becoming famous for its monumental architecture and rich cultural life. Visitors today can walk along its colonnaded streets, explore vast Roman baths, and stand in awe before the remains of one of the largest stadiums of the ancient world.

A CITY OF LEGENDS AND CONQUESTS

Perge’s history stretches back to the Bronze Age, but it rose to prominence in the Hellenistic period and reached its golden age under Roman rule. According to legend, the city was founded after the Trojan War by Greek settlers led by the seer Calchas. Later, Alexander the Great passed through Perge in 333 BC, marking the beginning of its transformation into a major hub of Pamphylia. With its strategic location near the Mediterranean coast, the city became an important trading and cultural center.

THE GRAND STADIUM OF PERGE

One of the highlights of Perge is its massive stadium, capable of hosting up to 12,000 spectators. This is one of the best-preserved ancient stadiums in the Mediterranean region, complete with stone seating and an arena where chariot races, gladiatorial games, and athletic competitions once entertained the citizens. Walking through its arches, travelers can almost hear the echoes of cheering crowds from two millennia ago.

THEATER AND ENTERTAINMENT

Perge’s theater, though partially ruined, still reflects the grandeur of Roman entertainment architecture. With a capacity of 15,000, it once hosted plays, performances, and public gatherings. The decorative reliefs and stage structures reveal the city’s love for art and culture. Alongside the theater, public baths and gymnasiums further emphasize how Perge’s citizens valued both social interaction and physical wellbeing.

THE FAMOUS COLONNADED STREET

Perhaps the most striking feature of Perge is its long, colonnaded street, running through the heart of the city. This grand avenue, flanked by marble columns, once served as the main commercial and social hub. A water channel ran through the middle, supplying the city with fresh water while adding elegance to the urban design. Walking along this street today, visitors can visualize ancient merchants selling goods and philosophers debating under the shade of colonnades.

EARLY CHRISTIANITY AND ST. PAUL

Perge holds special importance in Christian history. The Apostle Paul visited Perge during his first missionary journey in the 1st century AD. This makes Perge a sacred site for Christian pilgrims, linking the ancient ruins to the spread of Christianity in Asia Minor. The memory of Paul’s presence adds a spiritual layer to the city’s already rich history.

FUN FACTS ABOUT PERGE

• Perge was renowned for its temple dedicated to Artemis Pergaia, worshipped as the city’s protector.
• The city had advanced water systems, with aqueducts supplying fountains and baths.
• Archaeologists have uncovered beautiful Roman mosaics in Perge, many of which are now displayed in the Antalya Museum.
• Women held a special place in Perge; the city produced famous female benefactors who funded many public buildings.

VISITING PERGE TODAY

Perge is only about 17 kilometers from Antalya, making it an easy half-day trip. The site is vast, so visitors should allow at least two to three hours to explore fully. Pairing a Perge visit with nearby Aspendos and Side makes for a perfect day of exploring the rich ancient heritage of the region.

In fact, if you are already visiting Perge, you should not miss the chance to continue your journey to Aspendos Ancient Theatre — one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. The combination of Perge’s colonnaded streets and stadium with Aspendos’ magnificent stage makes for an unforgettable full-day historical adventure.

CONCLUSION

Perge Ancient City is more than just an archaeological site; it is a window into the cultural, religious, and social life of Pamphylia. From its monumental stadium and theater to its ties with St. Paul and Artemis, Perge remains one of the most captivating destinations in Turkey. For history lovers, culture enthusiasts, and travelers seeking to connect with the ancient world, a visit to Perge — ideally combined with Aspendos — is an unforgettable journey back in time.