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Perge

Not yet published by Mona Rae, Writer

Country: Turkey

The Experience

The ancient city of Perga in Antalya, Turkey, is a place that puts you in contact with the once-powerful and expansive Roman Empire.
There are huge majestic buildings in Perga, such as the Great Theater and the Stadium, with typical Hellenistic Towers in the front. The nearby Acropolis has many more historic buildings, and the best way to explore Perga is by car or via a guided tour. Otherwise you can be lost in the city very easily.

There is public transport in Perga, like the minibus that takes you around the area. The most popular and the most striking building in Perga, renowned all over the world, is the amphitheatre by the River Eurymedon. Greek Mythology informs that the Argives (inhabitants of Argos) founded the city of Perga soon after the Trojan War. They were the first city to come up with their own coins.

The best time to visit turkey is in spring when the climate is slightly cooler. Over all, Turkey enjoys the best Mediterranean weather throughout the year. Travellers should carry shorts and t-shirts to make their stay more pleasant. The main food in Turkey is meat, and you will find a lot of small eateries near all tourist places. The businesses here open at 9 a.m. and shuts by 6 p.m. Only smaller shops are open late into the night. Many people in Turkey manage to speak a little English, so having a basic conversation is not a problem. People are more than willing to help in tourist areas and come forth with information. Most tourist guides speak good English, and many of them are college graduates who are guides to earn some extra income.

While visiting Perga, carry sunglasses, a hat and water bottles. You may be required to walk for long distances. Wear sensible shoes throughout your trip. You can visit Perga in a day and cover the Stadium, Roman Gate, Bath, Nymphaeum, Hellenistic Gate, Main Street, and the Agora. These are some of the main places of interest. Throughout the city you will find many statues and lot of small structures. Some are aqueducts and some others are of religious prominence. It may seem very rushed to find so many structures, but a guided tour can explain everything in detail.

Perga is one of the important antique cities in Turkey. The Hellenistic gates are an interesting observation point, and their inscriptions refer to Calchas and Mopsus whom took part in the Trojan War. The Hittite Records have also mentioned Perga as a city by the River. Perga is best known in history for two women: Plancia Magna of the 2nd century, who helped to build the city; and Prof. Jale Inan who uncovered the city for us to see.

As soon as you enter the ancient Roman city of Perga you are welcomed by a theatre. The next structure is the Stadium, which is also one of the best preserved in the city. The most beautiful part of Perga is the Cardo, which has several artificial waterfalls along the streets all the way to the entrance of the Acropolis. When you are coming back after visiting all these places, you can stop by the Agora.

Photos

Puzzle

When to Go

July, August and September are the best time of the year to visit Perga. During this time of the year Perge has many tourists, so accommodation gets a little expensive compared to the other months.

Odds n' Ends

You will likely be walking for long distances, so wear sensible shoes throughout your trip.

Language Guides

Turkish is one of the languages spoken in Turkey. If you know of a freely available phrase book or podcast for one of the missing languages, let us know!


Discussion

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