Antakya is ancient Antioch — one of the great cities of the classical world, and the place where the followers of Jesus were first called "Christians" (Acts 11:26). Capital of Turkey's Hatay province in the far south, close to the Syrian border, it layers Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Arab and Ottoman history onto a lively modern town famous for its food.
Founded around 300 BC by Seleucus I Nicator, Antioch grew into one of the largest cities of the Roman Empire — a great metropolis of the eastern Mediterranean, famed for its colonnaded streets, baths and mosaics. Its wealth produced some of the finest Roman floor mosaics ever found, now among the treasures of the region's museums.
Cut into the rock of Mount Starius, the Cave Church of St. Peter (Senpiyer Kilisesi) is one of the oldest Christian places of worship in the world and a pilgrimage site. Tradition holds that Peter preached here; the church was given basilica status by the Crusaders. A service is held each year on 29 June.
The Hatay Archaeology Museum holds one of the world's great collections of Roman mosaics, recovered from Antioch and its villas — floors of extraordinary colour and detail. It has long been the single best reason to visit Antakya; check locally for its current opening arrangements after the earthquake.
Hatay cuisine is one of the richest in Turkey, blending Arab and Turkish traditions. Try künefe (Hatay's most famous dessert — hot cheese pastry in syrup), tepsi kebabı, oruk (stuffed bulgur), hummus, cevizli biber (walnut and pepper paste) and sürk cheese. Much of the famous food scene is being rebuilt; ask locally for what is open.
Hatay Airport (HTY) has flights from Istanbul and Ankara. By road, Antakya is several hours south of Gaziantep (Gaziantep) and Şanlıurfa. For Christian heritage across the country, see our guide to Biblical sites in Turkey.
The city is recovering from the 2023 earthquakes. Parts of the historic centre remain closed or under reconstruction. Check the latest conditions and your government's travel advice before booking.
Antioch was where the disciples were first called Christians, and the Cave Church of St. Peter is one of the oldest churches in the world.
Ancient Antioch, the Cave Church of St. Peter, its Roman mosaics, and Hatay cuisine — especially künefe.
Tell us where you want to go and get a personalised itinerary in seconds.