Perga or Perge (Greek: Πέργη Perge, Turkish: Perge) was an ancient Greek city in Anatolia, once the capital of Pamphylia Secunda, now in Antalya Province on the southwestern Mediterranean coast of Turkey. Today, it is a large site of ancient ruins 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) east of Antalya on the coastal plain. An acropolis located there dates back to the Bronze Age. Perga was an ancient and important city of Pamphylia, between the rivers Catarrhactes and Cestrus (Turkish Aksu Çayı). A treaty between the Hittite Great King Tudhaliya IV and his vassal, the king of Tarhuntassa, defined the latter's western border at the city "Parha" and the "Kastaraya River". The river is assumed to be the classical Cestrus. West of Parha were the "Lukka Lands". Parha likely spoke a late Luwian dialect like Lycian and that of the neo-Hittite kingdoms. Perge returns to history as a Pamphylian Greek city, and with Pamphylia came under successive rule by Persians, Athenians, and Persians again. Alexander the Great, after quitting Phaselis, occupied Perge with a part of his army. The road between these two towns is described as long and difficult. Alexander's rule was followed by the Diadochi empire of the Seleucids, then the Romans. Perge gained renown for the worship of Artemis, whose temple stood on a hill outside the town, and in whose honour annual festivals were celebrated. The coins of Perge represent both the goddess and her temple. In 46 A.D., according to the Acts of the Apostles, St. Paul journeyed to Perga, from there continued on to Antiocheia in Pisidia, then returned to Perga where he preached the word of God (Acts 14:25). Then he left the city and went to Attaleia. As the Cestrus silted up over the late Roman era, Perga declined as a secular city. In the first half of the 4th century, during the reign of Constantine the Great (324-337), Perga became an important centre of Christianity, which soon became the official religion of the Roman Empire. The city retained its status as a Christian centre in the 5th and 6th centuries. Perga is today an archaeological site and a tourist attraction. There were numerous excavations and discoveries since 1946. Ancient Perge, one of the chief cities of Pamphylia, was situated between the Rivers Catarrhactes (Düden Nehri) and Cestrus (Aksu), 60 stadia (about 11.1 kilometres (6.9 mi)) from the mouth of the latter; the site is in the modern Turkish village of Murtana on the Suridjik sou, a tributary of the Cestrus, formerly in the Ottoman vilayet of Konya. Its ruins include a theatre, a palaestra, a temple of Artemis and two churches. The temple of Artemis was located outside the town. Many of the coins struck in the city portrayed both the goddess and her sanctuary. Another big ancient city in the area is Selge, Pisidia, located about 20km to the northeast. The Perge has been dubbed as “Turkey’s second Zeugma” for the alluring appearance of the mosaics that have been unearthed so far. In 2003, archaeologists discovered well-preserved Greek mosaics showcasing Oceanus and Medusa. In 2017, discovered a mosaic depicting the sacrifice of Iphigenia.

Perge (Perga) Tours and Tickets
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Perga or Perge (Greek: Πέργη Perge, Turkish: Perge) was an ancient Greek city in Anatolia, once the capital of Pamphylia Secunda, now in Antalya Province on the southwestern Mediterranean coast of Turkey. Today, it is a large site of ancient ruins 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) east of Antalya on the coastal plain. An acropolis located there dates back to the Bronze Age. Perga was an ancient and important city of Pamphylia, between the rivers Catarrhactes and Cestrus (Turkish Aksu Çayı). A treaty between the Hittite Great King Tudhaliya IV and his vassal, the king of Tarhuntassa, defined the latter's western border at the city "Parha" and the "Kastaraya River". The river is assumed to be the classical Cestrus. West of Parha were the "Lukka Lands". Parha likely spoke a late Luwian dialect like Lycian and that of the neo-Hittite kingdoms. Perge returns to history as a Pamphylian Greek city, and with Pamphylia came under successive rule by Persians, Athenians, and Persians again. Alexander the Great, after quitting Phaselis, occupied Perge with a part of his army. The road between these two towns is described as long and difficult. Alexander's rule was followed by the Diadochi empire of the Seleucids, then the Romans. Perge gained renown for the worship of Artemis, whose temple stood on a hill outside the town, and in whose honour annual festivals were celebrated. The coins of Perge represent both the goddess and her temple. In 46 A.D., according to the Acts of the Apostles, St. Paul journeyed to Perga, from there continued on to Antiocheia in Pisidia, then returned to Perga where he preached the word of God (Acts 14:25). Then he left the city and went to Attaleia. As the Cestrus silted up over the late Roman era, Perga declined as a secular city. In the first half of the 4th century, during the reign of Constantine the Great (324-337), Perga became an important centre of Christianity, which soon became the official religion of the Roman Empire. The city retained its status as a Christian centre in the 5th and 6th centuries. Perga is today an archaeological site and a tourist attraction. There were numerous excavations and discoveries since 1946. Ancient Perge, one of the chief cities of Pamphylia, was situated between the Rivers Catarrhactes (Düden Nehri) and Cestrus (Aksu), 60 stadia (about 11.1 kilometres (6.9 mi)) from the mouth of the latter; the site is in the modern Turkish village of Murtana on the Suridjik sou, a tributary of the Cestrus, formerly in the Ottoman vilayet of Konya. Its ruins include a theatre, a palaestra, a temple of Artemis and two churches. The temple of Artemis was located outside the town. Many of the coins struck in the city portrayed both the goddess and her sanctuary. Another big ancient city in the area is Selge, Pisidia, located about 20km to the northeast. The Perge has been dubbed as “Turkey’s second Zeugma” for the alluring appearance of the mosaics that have been unearthed so far. In 2003, archaeologists discovered well-preserved Greek mosaics showcasing Oceanus and Medusa. In 2017, discovered a mosaic depicting the sacrifice of Iphigenia.
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- Suitable for history and archaeology buffs.
- Admission is about $4.
- Displays offer information in English.xa0Facilities include a café, restrooms, and stalls selling souvenirs.
- Wear appropriate shoes as you will be walking over uneven surfaces.
- Remember sun protection and water for hydration, as the site is entirely exposed.
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Depart in the morning and visit Perge, the place where most of the statues that are on display in Antalya Museum were unearthed. An important city of ancient Parnphylia, originally settled by the Hittites around 1500 BC. St. Paul visited Perge on his first missionary journey. The theater stage has finely carved marble reliefs, and other carvings from around the city are displayed in the stadium. Amateur archaeologists will want to see the handsome city gate flanked by two lofty towers, a long colonnaded road once paved with mosaics and lined with shops, a large agora, the public baths and a gymnasium._en-US
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The ancient Pamphylian cities of Perge and Aspendos are two of Turkey’s most impressive archeological sites. With this tour, visit all three in one day and gain insight into Turkey’s ancient history from your private guide. Enjoy a walking tour of Perge, marvel at the remarkably preserved Aspendos Theater, and admire the Waterfall views from Kurşunlu Waterfall. Three ancient cities in one day: Perge and Aspendos Delicious Turkish-style lunch at a local restaurant Private tour ensures the undivided attention visit to Kusunlu Waterfall. _en-US
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1.00 USD
Your day will begin with a private guide and driver picking you up from your hotel. This tour includes the most popular ancient cities in Antalya: Pamphylia, Perge and Aspendos. The theater in Aspendos is one of the most spectacular features that you will visit. It is considered one of the best preserved theaters in antiquity and has a capacity of about 15,000 people. In spite of the many earthquakes, the theater, buildings, and aqueduct are in great condition with astonishing architecture. In the afternoon there will be a break at the Kursunlu Waterfall. Your tour will conclude with your guide returning you to your hotel. _en-US
Learn MoreAccess for Seniors
- Recommended time for visit 1 hour
- Recommended time for visit 2 hours
- Physical difficulty level - 4
Accessibility for wheels
- Access with Portable Ramp
- Can have severe slope, cobblestones, and/or gravel
- Bathroom: Too narrow for wheelchair
- Wide doors >= 75 cm and < 90 cm
Access for Visually Impaired
- Service animals permitted
As you step into the ancient city of Perge, located in Antalya, Turkey, you are immediately enveloped in a sense of wonder and awe. The warm Mediterranean sun cascades down, casting a golden glow over the historical ruins that have stood the test of time. The air is filled with the heady scent of ancient stones, earth, and the faintest hint of wildflowers.
As you walk along the marble-paved streets, your fingers trace the rough-hewn edges of weathered columns that line the path, each one telling a story of the civilization that once thrived here. The sound of your footsteps echoes off the ancient walls, creating a symphony of history and reverence that reverberates through the air.
You pause to run your hands over the intricate carvings that adorn the Temple of Artemis, feeling the intricate patterns come to life beneath your fingertips. The cool, smooth stone is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the ancient artisans who dedicated their lives to creating such beauty.
Moving on, you come across the agora, the heart of the city where bustling markets and lively gatherings once took place. You can almost hear the chatter of merchants selling their wares, the laughter of children playing in the streets, and the murmured conversations of citizens going about their daily lives.
As you stand in the amphitheater, you close your eyes and let the history of this place wash over you. You can almost hear the roar of the crowd as gladiators fought for their lives, the rustle of silk robes as nobles watched from their seats, and the collective intake of breath as performers took to the stage.
But amidst the grandeur and spectacle of Perge, there are also moments of quiet beauty and reflection. You find yourself drawn to the sacred spring, where the water glistens like liquid silver in the sunlight. You dip your hands into the cool, clear water, feeling a sense of peace and renewal wash over you.
As you reluctantly make your way back to the present, leaving the ancient city behind, you carry with you the memories of a place steeped in history, beauty, and emotion. Perge may be a mere shadow of its former glory, but its spirit lives on in the hearts of all who are lucky enough to wander its hallowed grounds.
In Perge, Antalya, audio descriptive guides may not be readily available. However, visitors with visual impairments can contact the site in advance to inquire about any special arrangements that can be made.
As for sensory-friendly hours, it is recommended that visitors with sensory sensitivities contact the site directly to inquire about any accommodations or quieter times to visit.
Located in the heart of Antalya, Perga (Perge) is an ancient city with a rich history and cultural heritage. Local writers and artists in Antalya often find inspiration in the well-preserved ruins and archaeological sites of Perga, which offer a glimpse into the past and the lives of its ancient inhabitants.
Many local writers are drawn to Perga for its historical significance and the stories that lie beneath its stones. They often visit the site to immerse themselves in its ancient atmosphere and imagine what life was like in the city thousands of years ago. The intricate details of the architecture and the remnants of temples, theaters, and markets spark their creativity and provide a unique backdrop for their work.
Local artists, on the other hand, are captivated by the visual beauty of Perga. The intricate carvings, statues, and mosaics found throughout the site inspire them to create their own art pieces that pay homage to the ancient city. Some artists find solace in Perga’s tranquil surroundings, using the peaceful ambiance as a source of inspiration for their paintings, sculptures, and other creative endeavors.
Overall, local writers and artists in Antalya view Perga as a treasure trove of inspiration and creativity. The site’s historical significance and well-preserved ruins provide them with a unique opportunity to connect with the past and channel their creativity in meaningful ways. Whether through storytelling, painting, or other forms of artistic expression, Perga continues to influence and inspire the creative community in Antalya.
Perge (Perga) is located near Antalya, Turkey, and is easily accessible by various means of transportation. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you plan your visit to Perge:
### Directions and Transportation:
#### By Car:
- From Antalya city center, you can reach Perge by taking the D400 highway towards the east.
- The drive is approximately 18 km and takes around 30 minutes without heavy traffic.
- If you are using a GPS or navigation app, you can simply search for "Perge" or input the following coordinates: 36.9171° N, 30.9222° E.
#### By Public Transportation:
- There are public buses that operate between Antalya and Perge. You can take a bus from Antalya Bus Terminal (Antalya Otogar) that goes towards Aksu or Serik and ask the driver to drop you off at the Perge junction.
- From the junction, you can walk or take a short taxi ride to the archaeological site.
#### Accessibility:
- Perge is relatively accessible for people with mobility issues, as there are pathways and ramps for easier navigation.
- However, some parts of the ancient site may have uneven terrain, so it is advisable to check with the site staff for specific accessibility information.
### Ticket Booking and Discounts:
- Tickets for Perge can be purchased at the entrance. It is recommended to check the official website or contact the site in advance for updated ticket prices.
- Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and children. Make sure to bring valid identification to qualify for these discounts.
### Local Amenities:
#### Parking:
- There is a parking area available near the entrance of Perge for visitors arriving by car.
- Parking fees may vary, so it’s best to inquire about the rates at the site.
#### Restrooms:
- Restroom facilities are available at Perge for visitors’ convenience. These are usually located near the entrance or within the site.
#### Dining Options:
- There are usually snack bars or cafes located near the entrance where you can find refreshments and light meals.
- If you have specific dietary needs, it’s recommended to bring your own snacks or inquire about suitable options at the on-site facilities.
By following these transportation directions and utilizing the amenities available at Perge, you can have a comfortable and enjoyable visit to this ancient archaeological site.