Antioch (Antakya)
AbrahamicChristiancityMiddle East300 BCE - present
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Location
Modern Name
Antakya (Hatay Province, Turkey)
Country
Turkey
Region
Middle East
Coordinates
36.2025, 36.1600
Era
300 BCE - present
Site Type
City
About
Ancient Syrian city where followers of Jesus were first called 'Christians' and the base from which Paul launched his missionary journeys.
Significance
The third most important city of the early church (after Jerusalem and Rome); seat of one of the five ancient patriarchates; birthplace of the Christian name.
History & Historical Arc
Founded by Seleucus I circa 300 BCE; major Roman metropolis; Paul and Barnabas based here for the first three missionary…
Archaeological Notes
The ancient city lies largely beneath modern Antakya; spectacular Roman-era mosaics are preserved in the Hatay Archaeolo…
Key Features & Structures
- Church of St. Peter (Senpiyer Kilisesi)
- Hatay Archaeology Museum mosaics
Visitor Information
St. Peter's Cave Church open most days; small entry fee; Hatay Museum world-class for Roman mosaics; city freely walkabl…
Related Figures
Paul the ApostleBarnabasPeterLukeIgnatius of Antioch
Source References
- Acts 11:26
- Acts 13:1-3
- Galatians 2:11