With some structures dating back as far as 1000 BC, the ruins of Perge and Aspendos are two of the most ancient sites nestled along the coast near Antalya. And, as important centers on the outskirts of the Roman Empire (St. Paul even delivered a sermon in Perge), these sites are of interest to archaeologists worldwide. Constructed with intricate decorations and built for extraordinary acoustics, the theater of Aspendos once hosted grand attractions that held over 7,000 people. Even today, because of how remarkably well preserved the site is, plays and operas are still conducted here, and Professor Paul Muldoon's writing class followed in this proud tradition with a small reading from Aristophanes' play “Birds.”
