The Woman Who Shaped the Spirit of Perge

In the heart of Perge, we invite you to meet a woman who left her mark on history:

Plancia Magna. Living in the 2nd century AD, she was one of the leading women of Perge, a prominent city in the Roman provinces of Lycia and Pamphylia. This remarkable woman of one of Perge’s most magnificent Roman-era cities continues to inspire admiration, both in her own time and through the centuries that followed. What makes her truly exceptional was not only her noble lineage, but her courage to transcend the limits of her era and her relentless dedication to her city.

Plancia Magna, was born into the influential and wealthy Plancius family. Her father, Senator and provincial governor M. Plancius Varus, gave her the rare opportunity to grow up observing politics firsthand. Yet she refused to accept the comfortable and relatively passive life that was offered to her. While the customs of the time forbade women from controlling their own wealth, Plancia Magna broke that rule, using her fortune to improve and beautify Perge.

Plancia Magna’s contributions to the city were countless. She personally financed the restoration of Perge’s magnificent Hellenistic Gate and sponsored numerous architectural projects. But her dedication did not stop there she played an active role in the city’s religious and social life as well. Serving as the high priestess of the Temple of Artemis, she was granted honorary titles to carry for life. For her tireless devotion and influence, the people of Perge began to affectionately call her “Daughter of Perge.”

In recognition of her services and the responsibilities she undertook, the Perge councils awarded Plancia Magna the title of “Demiourgos.” In the ancient world, this title, reserved for men, represented the highest public office. By today’s standards, Plancia Magna can be thought of as holding the equivalent of a mayoral position. Her decisions, investments, and sponsored events all attest to her identity as a true leader.

After her passing, the people of Perge expressed their gratitude through statues, inscriptions, and praises. These writings emphasize that she was “a generous woman who spent her own money, acted independently of her husband’s control, and was strong and autonomous.” For this reason, she was posthumously honored with the name “Plancia the Great.”

Today, Plancia Magna is remembered not only as a heroine of Perge, but as one of the inspiring women of human history. Her courage, determination, and love for her city continue to shine across the centuries. Her statue in the Antalya Museum and the inscriptions at the Perge Ruins still tell her extraordinary story to all who visit.