Explored the Perge Archaeological Site. EUR 11/adult was absolutely worth every penny.
- Wow, the ancient city delivered and more. The only disappointment was that the theater was closed but other than that it was one of the most incredible experience. We could sit on the marble benches of the stadium dated 2 BC (as opposed to looking at it from a distance like in Delphi. We even found debris of broken pottery in the muddy walls of what could have been small artisan shops along the stadium. The on the site was still taking place. The Roman baths were incredibly well preserved, and we went inside the “tunnels” of the calderium, which helped us better understand how the system worked. The main streets of the city, which was part of the main Roman roads, still had the ancient stones with dents and curves from chariots and carts. The stone (marble? Granite?) water way along the street was an architectural mystery (how did they make it this way at that time?). The (probable) fountain in the middle of the Agora with multiple pipes like honey combs and propylaea around the market evoked images of ancient ways of living. Even famous Delphi or Athens with Acropolis and ancient Agora (must see places!) weren’t as “complete” in all elements or accessible for full engagement as was Perge. It was magical and absolutely worth the price.
- Once finished exploring Perge, totally exhausted but satisfied, we decided to try a restaurant in the area which specialized in “Kofte Piyaz” – it’s kotletki with Turkish lepeshka. We went to “Meşhur Köfteci Cihat” in the little town of Aksu near ancient Perge. Tasty food and the most delicious ayran.
