Perge 🇹🇷

Perge (originally an ancient Lycian settlement, later a Greek and Roman city in Pamphylia) lies 15 kilometers east of Antalya along Turkey's southwestern Mediterranean coast. Once the capital of Pamphylia Secunda, this historic site offers you a fascinating look into centuries of civilization, from its Early Bronze Age roots through Hittite, Persian, Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine eras. As you explore the ruins, you will encounter remarkable architectural achievements.

Perge's defining Roman feature is its main street, which features a long central water channel with cascading pools that once cooled the semi-arid landscape. Beyond the street, you can see monumental ruins uncovered by excavations, including a massive theater situated near a stadium, Hellenistic city walls featuring 3-storey conical towers, well-preserved 1st-century AD south baths, and several striking nymphaea (fountains). The site has also yielded ancient Greek mosaics depicting figures like Oceanus, Medusa, and Iphigenia.

Notably, Perge was the birthplace of the famed ancient mathematician Apollonius, a stop on St. Paul's biblical missionary journeys, and home to influential historical women such as the generous benefactor Plancia Magna.

What to see at Perge

• A main street featuring a unique Roman central water channel with cascading pools
• An ancient theater and neighboring stadium located just outside the city walls
• Hellenistic city gates with three-story conical towers expanded by Plancia Magna
• The well-preserved 1st-century AD south baths known for impressive monumental size and sculptures
• Striking nymphaea, including Hadrian's nymphaeum adorned with a statue of the river god Cestrus

Visiting tips

Be prepared for summer temperatures reaching over 30 degrees Celsius while exploring this open semi-arid site.

How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Early morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Perge is easy to reach on Antalya’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Antalya travel guide.