Perge is an ancient city located in Antalya Province, Turkey. The city is about 18 km (11 mi) from the city of Antalya. Perge was founded in the 7th century BC by the people of Argos. The city was captured by the Persians in the 5th century BC, and by Alexander the Great in 333 BC. In the 2nd century BC, Perge became part of the Kingdom of Pergamon. The city was captured by the Romans in 133 BC, and by the Byzantines in the 5th century AD. The city was an important center of Christianity in the early years of the Church. St. Paul preached in the city in 46 AD, and St. Peter and St. John also visited the city. The city declined in importance in the 7th century AD, and was abandoned in the 8th century. The city was excavated in the 20th century.