Antalya, one of our popular provinces in southern Türkiye, is like a paradise with its historical and natural beauties. Although Antalya is known for its beautiful blue flag beaches and holiday villages, and great hotel options that appeal to all segments, it is important not to ignore the deep history behind it. This beautiful city, which is preferred by millions of local and foreign tourists every year, is almost like an open-air museum. However, Antalya offers something beyond all these beauties. It is the Antique City of Perge, a treasure hidden in the depths of history.
In this article, we will explore the Antique City of Perge, one of the most well-known ancient cities of Antalya. We will answer questions such as where is Perge Antique City, how to get there, and the visiting hours. Let's get to know this ancient city that smells of history with its deep-rooted history dating back thousands of years, unique architecture, and impressive story.
Perge Antique City Story
The Antique City of Perge has a long history dating back to the 12th century BC and is known as one of the most important cities in the Pamphylia region. According to ancient Greek mythology, this ancient city was founded by immigrants after the Trojan War.
It showed its greatest development during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Especially with the rise of the Roman Empire, the city prospered and magnificent buildings were built. With its antique theater, stadium, streets lined with columns and baths, it became one of the most popular and developed cities of the period.
Perge Antique City continued its existence during the Byzantine Empire but lost its former glory due to the political and economic difficulties experienced during this period. In the Middle Ages, it completely lost its former splendor and was gradually abandoned. However, the architectural and cultural heritage it left behind has managed to survive even today.
Today, the story of the Perge Antique City continues to fascinate its visitors with this historical texture that carries the traces of the past. The story of Perge is not only the history of a city but also a heritage that sheds light on the history of Anatolia.
Where is Perge Antique City?
Perge Antique City is located 18 km east of Antalya, within the borders of Aksu district. Perge is one of the most important historical beauties of Antalya and is very close to the city center and easy to reach. This proximity makes transportation easily accessible for both local and foreign tourists.
How to get to Perge Antique City?
You can reach the Antique City of Perge, which is very easy to reach, by public transportation departing from Antalya city center or by private car with a journey of 20-25 minutes. This ancient city, also extremely close to Antalya Airport, is an ideal destination for day trips. You can easily reach the Antique City of Perge by joining the day tours organized by tour operators and enjoying the historical texture.
Perge Antique City Visiting Hours
Perge Antique City, which opens its doors to visitors throughout the year, can be visited between 8.00 am and 9.00 pm. Visiting hours may vary according to the seasons. It will be useful to check the current time before you go.
The best times to explore Perge Antalya are the spring and fall months. If you want to escape the heat of Antalya, you can visit during these periods and enjoy the cool weather.
Ruins in the Perge Antique City
There are many structures to discover within the history of Perge Antique City. The ruins in the ancient city reveal the beauty of the architecture of the past period. Among the most remarkable structures are the ancient theater, Roman Gate, stadium, agora, and colonnaded street. Let's take a closer look at the structures here.
Perge Theater
One of the largest and best-preserved structures of the antique city is the Perge Theater. Built in the 2nd century AD, this theater was one of the largest ancient theaters of the period with a capacity of approximately 12,000 people. In its time, various events ranging from gladiator fights to stage plays were organized in this theater. This building, where the social life of the period found a face, is one of the most beautiful examples of Roman architecture.
The artifacts found here until today are constantly exhibited in the “Perge Theater Hall” in the Antalya Museum.
Perge Roman Gate
There are three main gates in the ancient city and one of the most impressive gates is the Roman Gate, estimated to have been built in the 2nd century AD. Supported by two large towers, the Roman Gate is 24 meters long and 10 meters wide. This gate, which symbolizes the splendor of Perge in the Ancient Period, depicts the artistic understanding of the period well with the inscriptions on it.
