Nestled in the heart of Antalya Province, just 17 km east of the city center, Perge Ancient City stands as one of Türkiye’s most striking examples of Greco-Roman urban planning. Founded during the Bronze Age and flourishing under both Hellenistic and Roman rule, Perge invites visitors into a well-preserved world of colonnaded streets, vast stadiums, elegant baths, and a uniquely designed theater that once held over 12,000 spectators.

The city was originally settled by the Hittites around 1500 BCE and later expanded by the Greeks following the campaigns of Alexander the Great. However, it was during the Roman era that Perge reached its architectural zenith. Its iconic structures — such as the two monumental gates, the richly adorned Hellenistic towers, the agora, and the intricate mosaic floors of Roman houses — testify to its importance as a cultural and commercial hub.

One of Perge’s most outstanding features is its stadium, which remains one of the best-preserved in Türkiye. With a capacity of around 12,000 people, it hosted athletic events and Roman spectacles. Nearby, the Roman baths display clever heating systems and beautiful marbles that evoke the daily life and luxury of the era.

Perhaps the most remarkable element of Perge is its ancient theater, combining Greek and Roman design elements. Carved into a hillside and decorated with mythological reliefs, the structure once echoed with dramatic performances under the Mediterranean sun.

Perge is also known as a significant place in early Christianity. The apostle Paul is said to have visited here on his first missionary journey, adding spiritual depth to its already rich legacy.

Today, Perge is a peaceful yet awe-inspiring site that blends nature and history. Visitors can walk through time among ancient ruins, surrounded by citrus groves and distant mountains, feeling the deep silence of centuries past. Interpretive signs guide visitors through each section, and restoration efforts have made many areas safely accessible.

Perge is part of the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and continues to be one of the most important archaeological destinations in Türkiye. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photographer, or simply a curious traveler, Perge offers an unforgettable journey through Anatolia’s timeless past.

How to Get There:

Perge is located about 17 km east of Antalya’s city center. You can reach the site via car in about 25 minutes, or take a bus or dolmuş to Aksu, then walk approximately 1 km to the site entrance. Taxis are also widely available.

Best Time to Visit:

The ideal time to explore Perge is during the spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October) when the weather is mild and crowds are fewer. Summer can be hot, so visit early in the morning.