Perga, referred to as Perge in contemporary Turkish, was formerly a notable Lycian village that developed into a significant Greek city in Pamphylia. Located 15 kilometers east of modern Antalya in southwestern Turkey, Perga is a notable historical and archaeological site. The historic city, formerly the capital of the Roman province of Pamphylia Secunda, boasts a rich history that extends from the Early Bronze Age to the height of its Roman magnificence.

The history of Perga spans millennia, presenting a compelling account of changing civilizations, political conflicts, and cultural accomplishments. Located between the Düden and Aksu Rivers, the city was strategically placed on the coastal plain, offering both aesthetic appeal and military benefits.

The roots of Perga date to the Early Bronze Age, approximately 4000-3000 BC, since discoveries on the Acropolis uncover pottery that connects the village to the wider traditions of Western Anatolia. This era signifies the city’s founding, with its advantageous location granting early settlers access to regional trade routes, thereby positioning Perga as a pivotal hub for cultural interchange in antiquity.

During the Late Bronze Age, Perga’s significance grew due to Hittite influence. A tablet discovered at Hattusas designates the city as “Parha,” identifying it as a significant settlement within the Hittite kingdom. The city presumably utilized a late Luwian dialect, which served as a forerunner to the language of the subsequent Lycian populace. Parha’s location on the western frontier of the Hittite empire indicated its strategic significance in regional administration and military operations.

In the 7th century BC, Perga was influenced by Greek colonists from Rhodes, initiating its evolution as a Greek city-state. The city’s prosperity fluctuated under the Persian Empire, which seized Perga and its vicinity in 540 BC. Although archeological evidence is scarce, historical records indicate that Perga was included in the satrapy of Ionia during the rule of Darius I. The city’s participation in the Great Satraps’ Revolt in 360 BC underscores its importance during this turbulent era.

After Alexander the Great’s conquest of the region in 334 BC, Perga underwent a short duration of Macedonian governance, subsequently falling under the dominion of the Seleucid Empire. The erection of city walls and the issuance of coinage depicting Artemis, the city’s patron deity, highlight Perga’s increasing affluence in the 2nd century BC. The city’s reputation for Artemis worship, focused on the temple situated just outside the city, solidified its cultural and religious significance in the ancient world.

In 188 BC, the Roman Empire, after vanquishing the Seleucids, acquired dominion over Perga, which was incorporated into the Roman province of Galatia. By 25 BC, the Romans established the Via Sebaste, a significant roadway from Perga to Pisidian Antioch, therefore enhancing trade and communication throughout the empire. During Emperor Vespasian’s reign, the city was granted neocorate status, enhancing its significance as a hub of the imperial worship.

From the 1st to the 3rd centuries AD, Perga thrived, capitalizing on the Pax Romana and a surge of affluence. The city grew with the erection of significant edifices, including the theatre, baths, and many public facilities financed by affluent patrons. Plancia Magna, a significant character of the Roman era, was instrumental in this age of affluence, bequeathing a legacy of civic advancement.

Christianity proliferated in the region, with Perga becoming a prominent Christian hub throughout the 4th and 5th century AD. St. Matrona, a female saint, gained recognition for her miraculous healing abilities and defiance against imperial religious restrictions. Notwithstanding its increasing Christian influence, the city’s deterioration commenced with the silting of the Cestrus River, culminating in its abandonment by the 13th century.

The archaeological site of Perga is a repository of ancient monuments, numerous of which are exceptionally well-preserved. Excavations initiated in 1946 have revealed various civic and religious edifices, providing insight into the magnificence of this formerly prosperous city.

The Roman theatre in Perga is a prominent landmark that shows the city’s cultural importance during the Roman era. This edifice surpasses those located in neighboring Pamphylian cities like Myra and Patara, exemplifying the city’s significance. Adjacent to it, the stadium, a significant public venue, exemplifies Perga’s penchant for sports and entertainment activities.

The public baths of the city, notably the South Baths constructed in the 1st century AD, are among the most well-preserved edifices in Perga. These massive complexes are notable not just for their magnitude but also for the numerous sculptures unearthed on-site, which underscore the city’s artistic accomplishments throughout the Roman era. Furthermore, Perga possessed several nymphaea—grand fountains dedicated to nymphs—among which the Hadrianic Nymphaeum, originating in 122 AD, stands out as particularly remarkable.

The intricate water supply system of Perga is a notable characteristic of the city. The city was serviced by two principal aqueducts, one of which was the 11-kilometer-long Kursunlu Aqueduct, presumably conveying water to the city’s spas. The existence of these aqueducts highlights the sophisticated engineering capabilities of the Roman populace and their proficiency in using and regulating water resources in a semi-arid environment.

Archaeological digs at Perga have revealed exquisite mosaics, including depictions of Oceanus and Medusa, along with a striking portrayal of the sacrifice of Iphigenia. The artworks shown in the city’s public areas demonstrate the cultural liveliness of Perga and the citizens’ admiration for detailed creativity. In 2020, a complete statue of a woman, presumed to originate from the Roman Empire, was discovered, enhancing the city’s expanding assemblage of relics.

Today, the remnants of Perga serve as a poignant testament to the city’s former magnificence and historical importance. Previously a flourishing hub of culture, religion, and trade, it now provides significant insights into the ancient world. The temples, baths, theatres, and aqueducts captivate both archaeologists and visitors, rendering it a vital destination for those wishing to investigate Turkey’s extensive historical heritage.

The life of Apollonius of Perga, born in this city in 262 BC, stands as one of its most lasting legacies. Apollonius, renowned for his pioneering contributions to conic sections, transformed mathematics, influencing both ancient and contemporary sciences.

Perga, a city that once competed with Side and Antioch, embodies a narrative of cultural exchange, architectural innovation, and lasting influence, rendering it an essential component of the Mediterranean’s historic mosaic.

The Beginnings of Perge: A Rich History Embedded in Pamphylia

The history of Perge cannot be analyzed in isolation; it must be situated within the greater historical and geographical context of the Pamphylia Region. This region, abundant in prehistoric sites, has served as a cradle of civilization for thousands of years. The terrain of Pamphylia provides a striking insight into the early phases of human evolution, from the discovery of caves and ancient villages to the emergence of early cities. Karain Cave and Öküzini Cave are prominent prehistoric sites in the region. These caverns, in conjunction with other significant settlement sites like Beldibi, Belbaşı, and Bademağacı, provide deep insights into the existence of prehistoric societies.

Archaeological evidence, comprising obsidian and flint implements, indicates that Perge and its vicinity were occupied as early as the Neolithic and Copper Ages. The Perge Acropolis plateau, commonly known as the city’s elevated terrain, is thought to have been a preferred habitation site since prehistoric eras, specifically between 4000 and 3000 BC. Findings from Wolfram Martini’s excavations suggest that the site was consistently occupied during the Bronze Age. Pottery unearthed at the Acropolis exhibits considerable similarities to Central Anatolian artifacts, indicating potential cultural interchange or common practices.

Hittite Empire and the Emergence of Perge

The historical significance of Perge can be traced to the period of the Hittite Empire. The 1986 discovery of a bronze plate at the Hattusa excavations indicates that Perge, referred to as “Parcha” in the Hittite era, significantly influenced the geopolitics of the ancient Near East. This inscription, dated just around 1235 BC, documents an accord between Hittite King Tudhaliya IV and Vassal King Kurunta. It emphasizes the importance of Perge’s domain, which reached the Kaštarja River. Notwithstanding the prevailing power dynamics, the passage suggests that Perge preserved its autonomy, affirming its independence despite the threat for annexation by Hittite armies. This autonomy suggests a relatively insignificant yet strategically vital position within the larger framework of the Hittite Empire, especially during its decline.

Nonetheless, the city’s significance waned during the collapse of the Hittite Empire, as maritime incursions by the “Sea Peoples” unsettled the area. Scholars hypothesize that early Hellenic influences commenced infiltrating the region during the Late Mycenaean and Hittite periods, however direct evidence of Greek immigration from the 13th century BC is limited. Legend states that after the Trojan War, Achaean heroes like Mopsus and Kalchas commanded their troops to establish settlements in cities such as Perge, Phaselis, Syllion, and Aspendos. The connection of Mopsus to the establishment of Perge is both legendary and supported by subsequent inscriptions, including those discovered in Perge, linking him to the city’s inception.

The Fountain at the End of the Colonnaded Street: Cultural Significance and Identity

Perge’s evolution during the Greek and Roman eras exemplified its dynamic cultural identity, notably through its affiliation with Artemis Pergaia, the principal deity of the city. The coinage of Perge regularly designate the goddess as Wanassa Preiis, suggesting that Preiis, or Preiia, was probably the city’s original name. This cultural veneration is reflected in the city’s architecture, particularly in the remnants of the magnificent fountain at the terminus of the colonnaded street, which signifies the city’s commitment to its deities.

The dialects of Perge, Syllion, and Aspendos exhibit a multifaceted linguistic terrain. Although the Pamphylian dialect was prevalent in these places, Strabo observes that it was somewhat alien to the Hellenes. This linguistic distinction underscores the persistent existence of the Sided language, a constituent of the Luwian language group, which endured in regions such as Side despite the proliferation of Hellenistic influences.

Alexander the Great’s Entry into Perge

The arrival of Alexander the Great in Pamphylia in 334 BC signified a pivotal moment for the region. After his triumph at the Battle of Granicus, Alexander established communication with the city of Perge, which, as noted by Arrian, probably capitulated without opposition. Perge’s strategic significance, situated along the coastline route, rendered it a crucial component of Alexander’s drive to establish dominance over Asia Minor. Following his short sojourn at Perge, Alexander advanced his military campaign towards Aspendos and Side, departing from a city that had preserved its autonomy despite the Macedonian conquest.

The Roman Period and Political Shifts

The Romans commenced their domination in Pamphylia during the late Hellenistic era, subsequent to the Treaty of Apamea in 188 BC. Perge, currently governed by the Kingdom of Pergamon, situated at the intersection of Roman and Seleucid influences. Nonetheless, Perge’s political environment remained dynamic. Following the Roman conquest of Pergamon in 133 BC, the city became part of the growing area of the Roman Republic, though it was not promptly included into the Province of Asia. The region persisted as a contentious area, with cities such as Aspendos and Side retaining considerable autonomy, bolstered by Rome’s expanding dominance in the Mediterranean.

During the mid-1st century AD, under Emperor Vespasian, Perge thrived within the Province of Lycia et Pamphylia. The city’s architectural advancement during this era, encompassing the establishment of public baths, a gymnasium, and a theatre, reflects its affluence within the Roman Empire. The Plancii family, especially Plancia Magna, significantly contributed to these developments by investing in the city’s infrastructure and cultural legacy.

The Late Roman Empire and Decline

The slow decline of the Roman Empire in the 3rd and 4th century AD significantly affected Perge. The city, previously a prosperous metropolis, started to suffer from internal political strife, invasions, and the decline of central Roman power. Throughout this period, the city endured continuous assaults from the Isaurians, who aimed to undermine the stability of Pamphylia. Notwithstanding these obstacles, Perge remained a significant administrative and cultural hub, seeing a brief rebirth under the reign of Emperor Tacitus.

The decline of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century signaled a new age of instability for Perge. The Arab incursions, especially in the 7th century, exacerbated regional instability, leading to a steady decrease in the city’s political and cultural prominence. During the Byzantine era, Perge’s significance had waned, however it persisted as a secondary episcopal center in Pamphylia.

The Eastern Roman Empire and the City’s Final Days

The competition between Perge and Side persisted under Byzantine governance. Although Side was designated the principal episcopal center of Pamphylia, Perge maintained its status as a notable urban hub. The ascendance of Arab authority in the region throughout the 7th century resulted in the abandonment of numerous cities throughout Pamphylia, including Perge. Once renowned, the city gradually diminished from historical accounts, leaving only remnants and inscriptions that provide insight into its brilliant history. The deterioration of Perge exemplifies the vulnerability of civilizations, including those that formerly attained great prominence.

Ruins of the City: Exploring the Ancient Marvels of Perge

Perge, a paramount archeological site in Turkey, provides insight into the magnificence of the ancient world. The city’s ruins attest to its illustrious history, thriving from the Hellenistic era to the Roman Empire. The initial excavations of Perge commenced in 1946, led by A.M. Mansel from Istanbul University, uncovering numerous structures that attest to the city’s historical significance. The remains of Perge, featuring enormous theatres, expansive stadiums, and elaborate bathhouses, continue to attract history buffs and inquisitive travelers.

Theatre: A Venue for Spectacle and Performance

The theatre of Perge is a remarkable vestige of ancient building, providing insight into the entertainment customs of that era. The theatre consists of three primary sections—Cavea, Orchestra, and Scene—intended to accommodate diverse performances, including theatrical plays and gladiatorial combat. The Cavea, the spectator seating area, comprises 19 rows on the lower section and 23 rows on the upper section, accommodating a total of 13,000 spectators. This expansive area facilitated the assembly of enormous audiences, establishing it as a prominent nexus for social and cultural events.

The Orchestra, a semicircular area situated between the Cavea and the stage, is very captivating. The form is marginally broader than a conventional semicircle, a characteristic that may have facilitated gladiatorial combats and wild animal spectacles, which were prevalent during this period. The existence of fences surrounding the orchestra indicates that these violent shows occurred in this locale, when fighters and beasts engaged for the entertainment of the public.

The stage is arguably the most enthralling element of the theatre. The stage included five doorways leading to the backstage and was embellished with marble reliefs illustrating the life of Dionysus, the Greek deity of wine and festivity. These striking pictures, etched into the stage’s surface, like cinematic frames, encapsulating moments of mythological existence. Although some reliefs have suffered damage from the collapse of the stage structure, the remaining representations of Dionysus are exceptionally well-preserved and provide significant insights into the artistic and cultural values of ancient Perge.

Stadium: A Testament to Ancient Sport

The Perge Stadium is among the most well-preserved ancient stadiums, exemplifying the magnitude and significance of sporting events within the city’s social structure. The stadium, featuring a rectangular configuration of 234 by 34 meters, was engineered to host substantial audiences. The building, utilizing region-specific conglomerate blocks, underscores the constructors’ ingenuity. The stadium has a capacity of 12,000 spectators, serving as a central venue for athletic events and public assemblies.

The stadium’s seating configuration is distinguished by 11 rows of seats along each long side and 10 along each short side, upheld by 70 arched supports. The seating was engineered for comfort and utility, with each row measuring 0.436 meters in height and 0.630 meters in width. The highest tier of the stadium was reached through a 3.7-meter-wide promenade, offering sufficient space for spectators to navigate.

An inscription discovered at the site indicates that the arched areas along the stadium’s longer sides functioned as stores for vendors to sell diverse merchandise. This commercial endeavor enhanced the stadium’s vibrant ambiance, fostering an environment where attendees could relish both the sporting displays and the thriving marketplace. The construction of the stadium is thought to have commenced in the latter part of the 1st century AD, and its lasting structure exemplifies the engineering expertise of that era.

Agora: The Heart of Commerce and Politics

The Agora of Perge functioned as the vibrant commercial and political hub of the city. The open area was encircled by a collection of businesses, several of which showcased exquisitely restored mosaic flooring. These mosaics enhance the area’s aesthetic appeal while also reflecting the affluence and refinement of the city’s merchants. The shops were deliberately located to provide access to both the Agora and the adjacent streets, facilitating simple entry and substantial foot traffic.

The Agora served as both a marketplace and a venue for public participation. This was the location for public decision-making and assemblies to deliberate on political and governance issues. The circular edifice at the center of the Agora, measuring 13.4 meters in circumference, accentuates its significance. The Agora measures 75.92 by 75.90 meters, designating it as an important area for communal engagement.

During the Eastern Roman Empire era, alterations were implemented in the Agora, including the erection of walls that obstructed most entrances, leaving only the western one accessible. The northern entrance was probably converted into a chapel during this period, indicating the shifts in the city’s religious and cultural customs.

Columned Street: A Pathway of Beauty and Utility

The Columned Street of Perge, situated between the fountain (nympheum) and the hamlet at the base of the acropolis, was formerly an illustrious avenue flanked by magnificent columns. This 2-meter-wide street includes a central water channel that separates the area into two independent routes. The columns would have offered shade and magnificence to pedestrians, rendering it an appealing pathway for both residents and tourists.

The Columned Street served as a crucial link connecting the city’s significant sites, transcending mere cosmetic use. It functioned as a practical and strategic conduit that enabled transit between significant locations in the city, such as the Agora, the theatre, and the acropolis. The meticulous planning and implementation of the street underscore the significance of urban design in ancient Perge, where beauty and functionality were seamlessly combined.

Hellenistic Gate: A Monument to Defense and Grandeur

The Hellenistic Gate of Perge, constructed in the 2nd century BC, is a colossal edifice that exemplifies the military and architectural prowess of the period. Located within the city’s fortifications, the gate features a spacious oval plaza and is bordered by two formidable four-story round towers. The towers were carefully located to safeguard the gate and offer a vantage point for observation.

Throughout the years, the gate experienced numerous modifications. In 121 AD, the gate was altered to have a columned façade that concealed the old Hellenistic walls with colorful marbles. Statues of deities and mythical city founders were positioned in niches along the walls, enhancing the artistic aspect of the gate’s utilitarian role. The amalgamation of defensive fortitude with ornamental adornment renders the Hellenistic Gate a potent emblem of Perge’s prominence during this era.

South Bath: The Pinnacle of Roman Leisure

The Southern Bath, a well-preserved edifice in Perge, exemplifies the opulent bathing customs of the Romans. The South Bath, larger and more intricate than numerous other bathhouses in the Pamphylia region, illustrates the city’s affluence and significance. The bath complex was carefully planned to incorporate distinct rooms for diverse bathing experiences, including changing rooms, cold baths, warm baths, hot baths, and areas for physical exercise (palaestra).

The bathhouse’s arrangement is notably exceptional, including chambers positioned adjacently to facilitate visitors’ progression through the several phases of the bathing ritual. A subfloor heating system exemplifies the sophisticated engineering methods employed to ensure a comfortable atmosphere. The Southern Bath of Perge has experienced numerous alterations from the 1st century AD to the 5th century AD, illustrating shifts in architectural style and use throughout the period.

Other Notable Structures

Besides the Theatre, Stadium, Agora, Columned Street, Hellenistic Gate, and South Bath, the ruins of Perge encompass numerous more notable edifices. The city’s necropolis, featuring tombs and burial structures, provides insight into the funerary customs of its ancient residents. The city walls, gymnasium, massive fountain, and gates enhance the historical panorama, offering an extensive perspective of life in Perge during its zenith.

The ruins of Perge exemplify the city’s cultural and architectural accomplishments, captivating visitors with their historical importance and enduring beauty. Each structure provides a distinct perspective on history, enabling contemporary spectators to engage with the ancient world in a manner that few other places can facilitate.