Perge – One of the Best Ancient Cities in Antalya
The ancient city of Perge was once the capital of the Pamphylia region, located between two hills. It is located on the borders of the Aksu district, just 18 km from the center of Antalya.
The ancient city of Perge was one of the richest and most beautiful cities in the old world during the Hellenistic period, famous for its architecture and sculpture. It was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2009.
Since the ancient city of Perge is located on a rather vast territory, you will have to take an eventful walk. Before entering, you should familiarize yourself with the city map in order to be well oriented in the area. You can also see the stands with the history of the city, but they are written in Turkish and English.
Ancient City of Perge
History: Perge was founded around 1000 BCE and flourished under various civilizations, including the Hittites, Greeks, and Romans. The city reached its peak during the Roman period and became a prominent cultural and commercial center in the region.
City Layout: Perge is laid out in a typical Roman grid pattern, featuring wide streets, a central agora (marketplace), a theater, a stadium, and numerous temples. The city covers a large area, estimated to be around 15 hectares.
City Walls: The ancient city was fortified with robust walls that encompassed the urban area. Some sections of the walls, along with the Hellenistic towers, can still be seen today.
Agora: The agora served as the heart of the city, a bustling marketplace where commercial, social, and political activities took place. It was surrounded by colonnaded porticos and featured shops and fountains.
Theater: Perge boasts a well-preserved ancient theater that could accommodate up to 12,000 spectators. The theater follows the typical Roman design, with a semi-circular seating area and a stage for performances.
Stadium: The city had an impressive stadium, originally built during the Hellenistic period and later expanded by the Romans. It could hold around 12,000 spectators and hosted athletic competitions and other events.
Bath Complex: Perge had several public bath complexes, reflecting the Roman love for bathing. These complexes featured hot and cold rooms, changing areas, and pools.
Roman Gate: The grand Roman gate, known as the Triple Gate, was the main entrance to the city. It was adorned with impressive architectural details, including Corinthian columns and decorative sculptures.
Temple of Artemis: One of the notable structures in Perge is the Temple of Artemis, the patron goddess of the city. Although it is partially ruined, you can still admire the remaining columns and the grandeur of this once-magnificent temple.
Visiting Perge Ancient City
When visiting Perge Ancient City, it is recommended to allocate a few hours to explore the extensive ruins. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient past and showcases remarkable architectural and historical features.
To reach Perge, you can take a short drive or hop on a local bus from the city center of Antalya. There is an entrance fee to access the site, and guided tours are available if you prefer to have a knowledgeable guide explain the historical significance and provide insights into the ruins.
Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes, carry sunscreen and water, and have a camera handy to capture the remarkable sights and surroundings of Perge Ancient City.
