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St. Pierre Monument Museum

St. Pierre Monument Museum

The cave church near Antakya traditionally held to be the first in the world, where the name Christian was first used and popes have marked a place of pilgrimage.

About the museum

St. Pierre Church, cut into the western slope of Mount Stauris (the Cross Mountain) on the road from Antakya toward Reyhanlı, is widely accepted as the first cave church in the world. St. Peter, one of the twelve apostles, came to Antakya between AD 29 and 40 and is said to have preached in this church.

Its early importance rests on the tradition that the name Christian was first given to a community here, during religious gatherings. It is also seen as a church from the time before Christianity divided into Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant branches. In 1963 Pope Paul VI declared it a pilgrimage site, and each year on 29 June the Catholic Church holds a service here.

You visit the church with the modern city spread out below, a striking contrast with the simple cave that has hosted worship for centuries.

Tips

  • The church is on the edge of Antakya; check how to reach it in advance.
  • If you are interested in the religious services held here each June, ask the museum staff for details.

Questions

When is St. Pierre Monument Museum open?

According to the Ministry’s listing it opens at 08:30 and closes at 17:00 (last entry 16:30). Open every day.

Can I buy tickets for St. Pierre Monument Museum on this site?

No. This site sells no tickets. Topkapı Palace, the Basilica Cistern, Hagia Sophia and Dolmabahçe Palace are sold on our sister sites; for St. Pierre Monument Museum, buy at the ticket office or on the Ministry’s official e-ticket system.

Where is St. Pierre Monument Museum?

St. Pierre Monument Museum is in Hatay, Türkiye — Küçükdalyan Mahallesi.

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