The antique city of Perre is one of the five major cities of the Kingdom of Commagene (163 BC - 72 AD). The city is known as Me’arath or Gazze in the ancient sources, and as Pirin or Perin in Mesopotamia. Its geopolitical significance stems from its location on the road connecting the ancient cities of Melitene (Malatya) and Samosata (Samsat). Armies, caravans and soldiers often stopped along the way for the beauty and taste of the spring water, which still attracts the public today. The city maintained its importance in the Roman Period. It was known as Hierapolis (Holy City) and served as a link between Persia (Iran) and the west during the Byzantine period. The city's significance was further demonstrated when it participated in the Bible council held in Nicaea (Iznik) in 325 AD. After the Byzantine period, the city lost its significance. During the excavation and cleaning work under the Adıyaman Museum's supervision between 2001-2009, the necropolis and mosaic area were discovered. The actual settlement area of the city is Örenli Neighbourhood where people reside today. The antique City of Perre boasts the largest necropolis in the region. The presence of cisterns, wine workshops and Byzantine wall structures suggests that the area was also used for social purposes. The 155 square metre mosaic is the largest single piece ever excavated in Adıyaman and dates back to the 5th century AD. In the center of the mosaic, a scene depicts a wild goat nibbling on grape branches and leaves, while a chicken is also present. On either side of the central scene, a duck and a dove with a red ribbon on its neck can be seen.
PIRIN PERRE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE
