🏛️ Perge Ancient City (Perge Antik Kenti) – Complete Travel Guide

Introduction

Located just 18 km from Antalya city center, the ancient city of Perge (Perge Antik Kenti) is one of the most important archaeological sites in Turkey. Once the capital of Pamphylia, this ancient Greco-Roman city is famous for its well-preserved stadium, Roman baths, theaters, colonnaded streets, and city gates.

Perge offers travelers the chance to walk through history, explore monumental ruins, and imagine life in one of the wealthiest cities of the Roman Empire.

📍 Related Read: Kaleiçi (Antalya Old Town) – Visitor Guide

History of Perge

Hellenistic Foundations

• Founded around the 12th century BC, Perge became one of the major cities of Pamphylia.
• According to legend, the city was established by Greek settlers from Troy.

Roman Glory

• Under Roman rule, Perge flourished as a rich trade and cultural center.
• Known for its architecture, marble sculptures, and water systems, it became a model Roman city.
• The city’s stadium and baths are among the best-preserved in Anatolia.

Early Christianity

• Perge is also significant in Christian history.
• The Apostle Paul and Barnabas visited Perge during their first missionary journey in the 1st century AD.

🔗 External Source: UNESCO – Tentative World Heritage Sites in Turkey

Main Attractions in Perge Ancient City

1. Roman Theater

• Capacity: 12,000 spectators
• Decorated with reliefs depicting mythological scenes.

2. Stadium

• Capacity: 15,000 spectators
• One of the best-preserved stadiums of the ancient world.

3. City Gates & Towers

• The Hellenistic Gate, flanked by two round towers, is the symbol of Perge.

4. Colonnaded Street

• A wide avenue with column-lined shops and fountains, showcasing Roman urban planning.

5. Roman Baths

• Impressive bathhouses with heating systems (hypocausts) and marble rooms.

6. Agora (Marketplace)

• The commercial and social hub of the city, surrounded by colonnades.

7. Water System & Nymphaeum

• Perge had an advanced aqueduct system and monumental fountains.

📍 Related Read: Pamukkale Travel Guide – Cotton Castle & Hierapolis

Visiting Perge Today

📍 Location

• Located in Aksu district, just 30 minutes from Antalya city center.

🕒 Opening Hours

• Open daily: 08:30 – 19:30 (summer), 08:30 – 17:30 (winter).

🎟️ Entrance Fee

• Around 200 TL (€6–7) per person.

🔗 External Source: GoTürkiye – Antalya

🚍 How to Get There

• By car: 20 minutes from Antalya city center.
• By public bus: Services run frequently to Aksu.
• By guided tour: Many Antalya tours include Perge along with Aspendos and Side.

📍 Related Tour: 6-Day Western Turkey Tour – Istanbul, Gallipoli, Ephesus & Pamukkale

Tips for Visitors

• Wear comfortable shoes – the site is large with uneven stone paths.
• Bring water and a hat in summer – little shade inside the ruins.
• Combine Perge with nearby Aspendos Theater and Side Ancient City for a full-day trip.
• Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.

📍 Related Read: Cappadocia Travel Guide – Explore Turkey’s Fairytale Land

Why Visit Perge?

• One of the best-preserved Roman cities in Turkey.
• Offers insight into urban life, sports, commerce, and religion in ancient times.
• A mix of Greek, Roman, and early Christian heritage.
• Less crowded than Ephesus, but equally impressive.

SEO Optimized FAQ – Perge Ancient City

1. Where is Perge Ancient City located?

In Aksu, about 18 km east of Antalya, Turkey.

2. How old is Perge?

It dates back to the 12th century BC.

3. What is Perge famous for?

Its Roman theater, stadium, colonnaded streets, and Hellenistic gate.

4. How much is the entrance fee to Perge?

Around 200 TL (€6–7).

5. Can you visit Perge from Antalya?

Yes, it’s only 30 minutes away by car or bus.

6. What is the stadium of Perge known for?

It is one of the best-preserved stadiums in the ancient world.

7. Was Perge important in Christianity?

Yes, Paul and Barnabas visited during their missionary journeys.

8. Is Perge included in UNESCO World Heritage?

It is on Turkey’s tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage.

9. How long should I spend in Perge?

At least 2–3 hours to explore fully.

10. Can Perge be visited in a day trip?

Yes, often combined with Aspendos and Side Ancient City.

Conclusion

The ancient city of Perge is one of Turkey’s most impressive archaeological sites, offering a window into the grandeur of Roman civilization. With its massive stadium, ornate theater, marble baths, and iconic city gate, Perge is a must-visit destination for history lovers.

A trip to Antalya is incomplete without walking through Perge’s ruins, imagining gladiatorial games in the stadium, and exploring its colonnaded streets.

For a complete Turkey itinerary, combine Antalya and Perge with Pamukkale’s thermal pools, Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, and Istanbul’s iconic landmarks.

📍 Related Experience: Pamukkale to Cappadocia Private Transfer