Day 01 - Southern Coast: Antalya Harbor, Antalya Museum, Roman Road

Our day began walking through Antalya. This is the port the Apostle Paul certainly sailed from at the end of his first missionary journey, and may have sailed into to begin it (he may also have sailed further up, closer to Perga, on a river that no longer exists). While sitting on the very tip of the retaining wall, overlooking the ancient harbor we took time to consider where Paul came from and the way he was uniquely equipped to spread the gospel with people from all different walks of life.  

Our incredible guide, Ozan led us through the city and explained both history and culture to the group. His depth of knowledge and passion for his country are incredible.

We also saw the incredible Antalya museum and some of the incredible statues and ancient carvings they have there.

After a delicious lunch we drove to an ancient Roman road. This path is around two miles long, is extremely rugged, and eye-opening to think of anyone in antiquity walking 20 miles in one day over roads paved primarily with large stones.

While on the road, we took a break and Rob taught about how influential patronage was in the Roman world. There are many parallels to our own lives today because we still see echos of patronage reverberate through our culture and relationships.

The Roman road also allowed for ample time to talk and discuss all manner of things. Allan made this observation,

As a teacher of history, I am always intrigued with the echoes it leaves behind. Walking the Roman road, at one point I was over whelmed by the fact that much of what I was seeing was also seen by the Apostle Paul. My friend Chad Satchell and I (after traversing the rocky terrain with a great deal of difficulty) wondered aloud about the tremendous inconvenience of breaking a sandal. We both came to the conclusion that Paul (and whomever he was traveling with) must have packed a second pair or had the ability to do a repair if need be. - Allan

It was a great first day, and we’re just getting started!