Day 02 - Central Turkey: Pisidian Antioch

It was a crisp and cool morning in Isparta with temperatures in the upper 30's as we gathered for some warm coffee and conversation over breakfast. Sarah Anne Nemmers led us in devotions and after saying the Lord's prayer together, we hopped on the bus and headed toward one of the largest lakes in Turkey. 

As we approached the town of Egirdir, this beautiful blue lake surrounded by mountains came into view. Lake Egirdir Golu has 93 miles of Shoreline. There are very few homes on the lake as the Turkish people prefer to live higher up and view the lake versus live on the shore.

Gokhan, our guide, shared some information about his country. He explained how they are a proud NATO member and have always been fighting for freedom. They have the second largest NATO military after the United States. And because they are surrounded by neighbors that don’t like to play very nice, it turns out to be pretty important. Syria, Iran, Georgia, Bulgaria, Armenia and Greece all share a border with Turkey.

After some very curvy and hilly roads around the lake, we exited the shoreline with most of our stomachs intact and arrived at Pisidia Antioch. Our driver, Ibo, gave us the thumbs up for surviving the drive :-)

Pisidian Antioch was a significant Roman military colony. The Roman government paved the road from Antalya to this town and beyond. It’s stretched for over 150 miles. This was the capital of the Roman region called Galatia. Paul came here at least four times that we know about.

We gathered in the ruins of a fourth-century church that was built over top of a first century synagogue. Brady shared the history of this place and the pivotal role that it facilitated in the growth of Christianity in the region. We then read Acts chapter 13 which was the message/teaching Paul delivered to the people from the very spot we were seated. It was at this location that Paul seemed to take the reins from Barnabas and take lead as this was Paul’s home turf… the world of the Gentiles.

We explored various parts of this ancient city including the role that John Mark played as he complimented Barnabas and Paul.

The pile of rocks with holes and pieces is part of the ancient Aquaduct that brought water to the city.

After a quick stop at the local museum, we began the journey to Pamukkale to rest up, enjoy a hot spring, and get ready for tomorrow’s adventure!