The central fountain of the ancient Greek city of Perga (Greek: Πέργη) is once again flowing after nearly 1,800 years. Now restored to its former glory, the fountain stands as a testament to the city’s rich historical legacy.
The ancient Kestros Fountain in the historic city of Perga, located in today’s Antalya region, Turkey, was constructed during the reign of Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD. It once carried water from the Kestros River, now known as the Aksu River, located three kilometers (almost two miles) away from the city, through a complex system of 700 meters of canals that channeled water from a pool.
“We managed to channel the fountain in this direction. We are still getting water from the same source as at that time,” Dr. Aytac Donmez, deputy head of the excavation of the ancient city of Perga, explained in speaking to CNN Turk.
The fountain is one of the most impressive buildings in the city and is decorated with a reclining figure, representing Kestra, the ancient river god. The ancient populations of the area worshiped Kestra and the nearby river of Eurymedon as gods.
Fountain restoration and excavations
The restoration of the Kestros Fountain is being completed in phases. So far only one hundred meters of it have been restored.
“We started the water flow projects at the Kestros Fountain in 2022, with the support and commitment of our Provincial Directorate of Culture and the Antalya Museum. Thanks to the funds provided to us by our Ministry this year, the Kestros Fountain has finally come to fruition and has recovered its water after 1,800 years,” said Donmez, adding that in the second phase, “they aim to restore the entire fountain, incorporating new architectural findings that will help [them] complete the project.”
Excavations at the site of Perga have been ongoing since 1946, and archaeologists have uncovered well-preserved Roman monuments, including a theater, stadium, baths, and columns. In 2009, UNESCO included Perga in its list of Provisional World Heritage Sites.
Local authorities expect that the restoration of the fountain will breathe new life into Perga, which is famous for its marble sculptures, attracting more visitors and tourists who want to witness the revival of the unique ancient monument.
An ancient Greek city with historical importance
Dating back to the early Bronze Age, Perga was an ancient Greek city in Asia Minor and the capital of Pamphylia. It came under successive rule by the Persians, the Athenians and again the Persians.
In 540 BC, Perga was captured by the Achaemenid Empire, and during the reign of Darius I, it became part of the Satrapia of Ionia. It remained under their control until 333 BC, when Alexander the Great was admitted to Perga with his army.
The city flourished in the 2nd century BC, and officials began minting their own coins for the city in the image of Greek goddess Artemis, whose temple stood on a hill outside the city. Perga became famous for the worship of the goddess, and every year many festivals were held in her honor.
The city was a part of the Seleucid Empire before it joined the Roman Republic. Under the Romans, Perga became one of the most beautiful cities in Anatolia. Later, it became part of the Byzantine Empire, and under Constantine the Great it became a significant center of Christianity.
Perga was also the birthplace of the Greek mathematician Apollonius, who is considered one of the greatest mathematicians of the ancient world.