Exploring Perge – The Ancient City Near Antalya
We were in Turkey for a week recently, staying in Antalya. We chose Antalya as our base because we wanted to visit the ancient monuments and sites in the region. One of the places on our list was Perge, an ancient city known for its impressive ruins. It was easy to reach from Antalya, making it a great choice for a day trip.
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Perge is an ancient city located about 15 km from Antalya. It was once a major city in the Pamphylia region and has a rich history dating back to the Bronze Age. The city flourished under Greek and Roman rule and many of its structures from that time still stand today. Walking through Perge, you can see well-preserved streets, grand columns, an ancient theatre and a massive stadium that once hosted games and events.
Visiting Perge is like stepping back in time. The ruins give a glimpse into life in an ancient city, with its public spaces, marketplaces and impressive architecture. Unlike some of the more famous ruins in Turkey, Perge is often quieter, allowing visitors to explore at a relaxed pace. The detailed carvings on the stones, the massive theatre and the scale of the stadium make it a must-visit for history lovers.
Getting to Perge
Perge is located about 15 km from Antalya, making it an easy site to visit. From our hotel, Grand Park Lara, it took around half an hour to reach Perge. The drive was smooth, passing through both urban and rural areas before arriving at the ancient site. Being so close to the city, Perge is a great option for a half-day or full-day trip.
We chose to visit Perge as part of a guided tour that also included Aspendos and Side. The tour made things very convenient, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. Our guide was excellent, sharing interesting facts and stories about each site. For those who prefer to explore on their own, Perge can also be reached by car or taxi from Antalya. Some public transport options, like local buses, may be available, but a tour or private vehicle is the easiest way to get there.
Perge’s History
Perge was originally a Lycian settlement that later became a Greek city in the Pamphylia region. It was located between the Rivers Düden and Aksu, about 11 km from the Mediterranean coast. The history of Perge dates back to the Early Bronze Age (4000-3000 BC), with evidence of ancient pottery linking it to Western Anatolia. By the 7th century BC, it likely became a Greek colony of Rhodes. Over time, it came under the rule of different empires, including the Persians, Athenians and later the Seleucids. Alexander the Great passed through Perge in 334 BC, and under the Seleucid rule, the city began to flourish. The walls around the lower city were built starting from 223 BC, and Perge became known for its worship of Artemis, with annual festivals held in her honor.
In 188 BC, after the Romans defeated the Seleucids, the area was gifted to the Attalid kingdom, which later became part of the Roman Republic in 133 BC. Under Roman rule from the 1st to 3rd century AD, Perge developed into a magnificent city, rivaling Side as the most important town in Pamphylia. The city had grand buildings, wide streets, and public spaces that showcased Roman architectural brilliance. It was also the birthplace of the famous Greek mathematician Apollonius of Perga. Perge remained inhabited for centuries and continued to be a significant city until the rise of the Seljuk Empire around 1000 AD.
What to See in Perge
The Roman Theatre: This large theatre could hold around 12,000 spectators. It had a grand stage, marble seating, and impressive carvings. Today, parts of the seating area and stage structure still remain. When we visited it was closed for repairs/renovation, so we could only see it from outside.
The Stadium: One of the best-preserved stadiums from ancient times, it could seat around 12,000 people. It was used for sports events and gladiator fights. Many of its arches and seating rows are still visible today.
The Agora: This was the city’s marketplace and a center for trade and social gatherings. Visitors can still see the remains of the shops, columns, and an open courtyard.
The Main Street and Columns: A wide, paved street lined with tall columns that once had shops and fountains on both sides. Some of the columns still stand, giving a glimpse of its former grandeur.
The Hellenistic Gates and Tower: These massive gates marked the entrance to the city and were part of the city’s defense. The remains of the towers and walls still stand, showcasing their impressive design.
The Roman Baths: Built for public bathing and relaxation, they had heated rooms and pools. The remains of the walls, floors and parts of the heating system can still be seen today.
Our Experience Visiting Perge
Visiting Perge with a guide turned out to be a great decision. Our guide shared detailed stories and historical facts that we may not have known if we had explored on our own. She explained the significance of each structure, pointed out hidden details and helped us imagine what the city looked like in its prime. Learning about the daily life of ancient residents and the events that took place in the theatre and stadium made the visit even more interesting.
We visited Perge in the morning, and it was surprisingly quiet, with only a few other visitors around. This made it easy to explore at our own pace and take in the details without crowds. One of the most fascinating parts of our visit was the Roman Baths. As we stood among the ancient ruins, our guide explained how the water was heated using an underground system of furnaces and pipes. It was amazing to learn how advanced the Romans were in creating such a complex bathing system all those centuries ago.
Tips for Visiting Perge
Visiting Perge in the early morning, as soon as it opens, is ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Our guide arranged our visit this way, and our small group was among the first to enter, allowing us to explore at a relaxed pace.
Perge Ancient City is open daily, with visiting hours from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM during the summer period (April 1 to October 31) and from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM during the winter period (November 1 to March 31). The entrance fee was around Euro 11 when we visited and since our guided tour included the entrance fees, which were purchased beforehand, we didn't have to spend time queuing for tickets on the day of our visit.
When planning your visit, it's essential to come prepared. Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Sun protection, such as hats, sunglasses and sunscreen, is crucial due to limited shade within the site. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended, as the terrain can be uneven and there's much to explore. By being well-prepared, you can fully appreciate the rich history and impressive ruins of Perge.
I highly recommend visiting Perge for anyone interested in ancient history and stunning archaeological sites. The ruins are well-preserved and the peaceful atmosphere, especially in the morning, allows for a more immersive experience. It is an active archaeological site, with ongoing excavations and restoration work that continue to reveal more about its ancient past. There is lots to explore and learn about and I feel Perge is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Antalya region.
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