Pisidian Antioch

Antioch of Pisidia

The city was founded in the 3rd century by either Antiochus I or II, but it only achieved prominence after its refounding as a Roman colony by Augustus in 25 B.C.

Three members of the imperial family served as honorary magistrates of the city from 15 B.C. to 35 A.D., attesting to the importance of this Galatian city.

Triple-Arched Gate

This triumphal arch gateway was excavated by the University of Michigan in 1924.  

The gate was built in the second century A.D. and was dedicated by Hadrian in 129 A.D. on his tour of Asia Minor.

Hellenistic City Wall

The city was a major Hellenistic center in the centuries before Paul's arrival.  It was located along the route from Ephesus to Cilicia.  

Jewish inhabitants were brought to the city by the Romans for political and commercial reasons and it was to this community that Paul preached on his first missionary journey.

Temple of Augustus

As Augustus was regarded as the city's founder, this temple dedicated to him was built after 2 B.C. and became the focal point of the city.

This podium temple was constructed in front of a two-story semi-circular portico and adjacent to a large colonnaded courtyard.  The temple was first excavated by Ramsay in 1912-14.

Church of St. Peter

The remains of this Byzantine church are the traditional location of the synagogue that Paul preached in (Acts 13:14-52).  

Recent excavations have revealed a 1st century building underneath the church which has been identified as the synagogue.  In the church a mosaic floor has been found with Psalm 42:4 inscribed on it.

Related Websites

Pisidian Antioch (Christian Travel Study Program)  Features text highlighting the historical and biblical importance of the region.  Includes a glimpse into the area today.

Pisidian Antioch (Republic of Turkey, Ministry of Culture)  Approaches the city from a variety of angles, examining the layout of the city, architectural features, and landmarks in detail.

Yalvac (Republic of Turkey, Ministry of Tourism)  Offers a wide range of information, from points of historical interest to tips for tourists.

History of Pisidian Antioch (Ataman Hotel)  Broad explanation of the historical and archaeological significance of the site accompanied by several good pictures.

Antioch and Pisidian Antioch (Crystalinks)  Detailed text reveals the importance of this city, particularly in the Roman empire and in the spread of Christianity.

Pisidian Antioch (Biblical Turkey)  Summarizes the importance of Paul's decision, made in this city, to the history of Christianity.

Pisidian Antioch (Unbound Bible, Biola University)  Takes a brief look at the city and summarizes the biblical events which occurred there.

A Site Out of Sight: Antioch in Psidia (turizm.net)  Prompts tourists to visit this less commercialized site with a personable description of the important archaeological remains and other features of interest.

Pisidian Antioch (ArchaeoExpeditions, Turkey)  Details, plans and goals for recent excavations, including information on joining a current dig.

Antioch of Pisidia: The University of Michigan's 1924 Archaeological Expedition (Zilia C. Estrada, University of Michigan)  Presents a "sample" of the material available concerning this excavation which was never published.

Ancient Coinage of Pisidia, Antioch (Wildwinds)  Pictures a number of ancient coins from various time periods.