PAMPHYLIA. Perga.(Ca. 221-188 BC).Tetradrachm.

Obv : Head of Heracles right, wearing lion skin headdress, paws tied before neck.

Rev : AΛEΞANΔPOY.
Zeus seated left on backless throne, right leg drawn back, feet on ground line, eagle in outstretched right hand, grounded scepter in left; ΛΓ (date) in left field, Seleucid anchor countermark within shallow incuse oval in right field.
Price 2947.

Condition : Good very fine.

Material : Silver.
Axis : 12h

Weight : 16.25 gr
Diameter : 30 mm

Perga, an ancient city located in the region of Pamphylia in modern-day southwestern Turkey, was a prominent center of culture, religion, and commerce. Founded around the 4th century BCE, Perga is known for its impressive architectural remains and rich history that spans the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Strategically situated near the Cestrus River, Perga benefited from both river access to the Mediterranean and fertile plains, which supported its agricultural economy and facilitated trade.

Perga held significant religious importance in antiquity, primarily due to its association with the goddess Artemis. The city was a major cult center for Artemis Pergaia, the city’s patron deity, whose temple was one of the most important religious sites in the region. Artemis was worshipped in her distinct, local form as Artemis Pergaia, reflecting the city’s blend of Greek and indigenous Pamphylian cultural influences. Religious festivals and ceremonies dedicated to her attracted pilgrims and visitors from nearby areas, strengthening Perga’s religious standing.

The city’s layout and architecture were remarkable, showcasing classical Hellenistic and later Roman urban planning. Perga boasted a large, well-planned agora (marketplace), a grand theater, a stadium, and elaborate baths, all constructed in a manner that demonstrated the wealth and importance of the city. The colonnaded street, lined with shops and public buildings, is particularly notable for its beauty and architectural symmetry. The city’s theater, with seating for thousands, and the stadium, which could host athletic events, are testament to the city's thriving social and cultural life.

During the Roman period, Perga reached its peak, benefiting from the stability and infrastructure of the Roman Empire. The city was adorned with new structures, including temples, nymphaea (monumental fountains), and public baths, and became a prosperous hub in the region. Its proximity to the Roman provincial capital of Side and other major cities increased its prominence as a cultural and commercial center.

Perga also holds an important place in early Christian history. The Apostle Paul visited Perga on his first missionary journey, as documented in the Book of Acts in the New Testament, making the city a notable location in Christian history. This connection added another layer of religious significance to Perga, which eventually became a bishopric during the Byzantine period.

Archaeological excavations at Perga have revealed a wealth of artifacts, inscriptions, and structures that provide insight into the city’s diverse historical phases. Many of these findings, including statues, coins, and architectural fragments, are preserved in museums in Turkey, contributing to our understanding of Pamphylian culture and Perga’s role within it. The well-preserved ruins of Perga are still a popular destination for visitors, offering a glimpse into the city’s grandeur and its complex history.

Today, Perga stands as one of the best-preserved ancient cities in Pamphylia, representing the architectural and cultural achievements of the ancient Mediterranean world. Its ruins reflect a city that was once vibrant with religious devotion, economic prosperity, and social activity, making it an essential site for understanding the history of Pamphylia and its significance in the broader ancient world.