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Ancient City

Perga

PUR-guh · Modern Perge (Aksu), Antalya Province, Turkey · 36.9614° N, 30.8539° E

A major city of Pamphylia, Perga was the first stop for Paul and Barnabas in Asia Minor after sailing from Cyprus (Acts 13:13-14), and Paul preached there again on his return journey (Acts 14:25). It was here that John Mark left the missionary party to return to Jerusalem.

Archaeology

Excavations since 1946 have uncovered extensive remains including a large theatre, a well-preserved stadium, monumental Hellenistic and Roman city gates, and Roman baths. Unlike the traditional Gospel sites, Perga's identification is geographically certain — a well-documented, continuously identified ancient city — though no artifact directly attests to Paul's specific visit; that comes solely from the Acts narrative.

View toward the Roman Gate and Hellenistic Gate at the ancient city of Perge (Perga), Turkey
View toward the Roman Gate and Hellenistic Gate at the ancient city of Perge (Perga), Turkey — source & licence
The ancient Roman theatre at Perge (Perga), Antalya Province, Turkey
The ancient Roman theatre at Perge (Perga), Antalya Province, Turkey — source & licence

On a modern map

Perga today

Further reading

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