Perge Ancient City – Aksu, Antalya
Perge was the capital of the Pamphylia region and one of the most organized and planned cities of the ancient world. Famous for its marble sculpture, artifacts excavated from the city form the most important collection of the Antalya Museum today. It is also of great significance for Christian history; Saint Paul visited Perge on his first missionary journey, spreading Christianity to Anatolia from here.
History Known as "Parha" in the Hittite period, the city is rumored to have been founded by heroes arriving after the Trojan War. In the Hellenistic period, it became a center for scientists (such as the famous mathematician Apollonius). During the Roman period (2nd–3rd centuries AD), it underwent major construction, adorned with monumental structures, especially through the contributions of the city's wealthy female administrator, Plancia Magna.
Key Structures
- Hellenistic Towers and Gate: The two round towers, symbols of the city, date back to the 3rd century BC and are among the best examples of ancient defensive architecture.
- Colonnaded Street: A water channel, 2 meters wide, runs through the center of this magnificent street forming the city's north-south axis. This channel system was designed to cool the city during hot summer days.
- Stadium: With a capacity of 12,000, it is one of the best-preserved stadiums in Anatolia. Its vaulted substructures were used as shops.
- Roman Bath: A massive complex with Frigidarium (cold room), Tepidarium (warm room), and Caldarium (hot room) sections. It was adorned with statues.
- Kestros Fountain (Nymphaeum): A monumental fountain dedicated to the river god Kestros.
Sources
- UNESCO Tentative List
- Antalya Museum
- Wikipedia – Perge