Antioch: Where Believers Were First Called Christians
Antioch on the Orontes — modern Antakya in southern Turkey — was the third-greatest city of the Roman Empire and the birthplace of the worldwide Christian mission. It was here that followers of Jesus were first given the name that has endured for two thousand years: Christians.
“And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch... The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.”
— ACTS 11:26
The church at Antioch was remarkable — a diverse community of Jews and Gentiles worshipping together, a living picture of the gospel breaking down every barrier. Its vitality made it the natural launching point for the mission to the nations.
The Cave Church of St. Peter
Carved into the slopes of Mount Starius, the Cave Church of St. Peter (Sen Piyer Kilisesi) is considered one of the oldest churches in the world. Tradition holds that the earliest Christians of Antioch gathered here in secret. To worship in this ancient cave is to connect directly with the first generation of believers.
The Sending of Paul and Barnabas
It was from Antioch that the Holy Spirit set apart Paul and Barnabas: "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them" (Acts 13:2). From this city the gospel spread across Asia Minor, Greece, and ultimately to Rome and the world.
Antioch Today
Modern Antakya preserves the memory of this extraordinary heritage, including the renowned Hatay Archaeological Museum with its world-class Roman mosaics. For pilgrims, Antioch is where the identity of the Church itself was born.
Our In the Footsteps of St. Paul pilgrimage begins in this sacred region, where the Christian story truly went global.
Experience This Journey
Related pilgrimages that visit the places in this article:
