Perga and Attalia in Pamphylia

Friday we visited the historic ruins of ancient Pamphylia: Antalya (biblical Attalia, Acts 14:25) and Perge. Antalya is the modern name for Attalia which served as the port of entry from Egypt and Syria to the interior of Asia. From here Paul sailed back to Antioch (Acts 14:25). Our visit included the harbor, and Hadrian’s Gate, The photo below is of the harbor in Antalya (biblical Attalia).

We enjoyed the visit to Perga very much. There are impressive Hellenistic and Roman ruins. Most of the Roman structures date to the second century A.D. This is where John Mark turned back from the work (Acts 13:13-14; 15:37-39). On his return from the first journey, Paul spent some time preaching here (Acts 14:25).

The museum in Antalya is one of the nicest regional museums I have visited. Many of the artifacts, especially the statuary, are from the second century Roman city of Perga. Here is a photo of an Imperial Priest. A knowledge of the Roman Cult is important when one begins to study the book of Revelation. These were the men who gave the certificates to those who had worshiped the Emperor.

Antalya is a popular Mediterranean resort town with many nice hotels. I would have enjoyed a few days just to relax. Next is Istanbul.