The ancient city of Perge, believed to date back to the 2nd century BC, continued to exist during the Hittite period and was known as "Parha" during this time. During the Roman period, it stood out for having the most organized settlement among the cities in Anatolia. The ancient city is particularly famous for its architectural and sculptural examples, and the sculptures unearthed during excavations are exhibited in the Antalya Museum.
Perge Ancient City, an important example in terms of urban planning, gained its identity as a "Water City" with its colonnaded street running in a north-south direction, its water channel, four monumental fountains, and two large baths.
The ancient city of Perge contains unique architectural examples from its period, and although not all of them have survived to the present day, remnants of important structures can be found. Notable features within the city include the theater area, stadium, agora, colonnaded street, Hellenistic-era gate, and the southern baths situated above the ruins.
On this page
The Story of the Ancient City of Perge
The ancient city of Perge is believed to date back to the Bronze Age and to have served as a capital during that period. Located in the Pamphylia region, the ancient city contains numerous caves and settlement areas. Due to its central location, the area was once used for agricultural and livestock activities, and served as a settlement center during the Neolithic and Copper Ages.
The ancient city of Perge experienced three main periods. Its first flourishing period coincides with the Hellenistic era in Antalya, and this is represented by the Hellenistic towers that have survived to this day. The period known as the golden age of the ancient city was the Roman Empire. Benefiting from the peace and prosperity of the Roman Peace, which spanned the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, Perge also experienced new construction activities. Among the artifacts from the Roman period are the Theater, Stadium, City Gate, Water Channels, and Monumental Fountains, showcasing all the arrangements related to water. The ancient city's last period of glory was during the Eastern Roman Empire. With the adoption of Christianity, the influence of this faith is evident in all the architectural works of the ancient city. In particular, the leading saints of the adopted religion viewed the city as a center of faith and ensured that it served as the starting point of the St. Paul's Way, which extended to Pisidia Antioch. During the 5th and 6th centuries AD, basilicas were built in the city, thus granting Perge the status of a metropolitan city.
With a history dating back to the 2nd century BC, many scientific terms still valid today originated in this magical atmosphere. The famous mathematicians and physicists Archimedes and Euclid were born and raised in the sacred lands of Perge, and their work ensured the city's immortality. The influence of these renowned scientists on the flawless and impressive architecture of Perge is undoubtedly undeniable.
You might be interested in this
Antalya Side Ancient City and Side News
Photo Gallery
Perge Ancient City Entrance Fee
Entry to the ancient city of Perge is possible with a Museum Card. Anyone holding a Turkish Republic Identity Card can purchase a card at the museum card sales point located at the entrance of the ancient city or online. Foreign visitors can enter the ancient city by paying 11 Euros.
Where is the ancient city of Perge in Antalya?
The ancient city of Perge, located within the borders of Antalya province, lies 18 kilometers east of Antalya in the Aksu district. Tourists wishing to visit the ancient cities of Antalya can easily reach it from the city center.
Transportation to Perge Ancient City
Those wishing to visit the ancient city of Perge can reach it in the Aksu district of Antalya by private vehicle, intercity bus, or city minibus. Those wanting to reach the ancient city from Antalya city center must first get to the Aksu district. From Antalya city center, you can take bus number AC03 to Aksu district, a journey of approximately one hour.
