St. Pierre Church

Explore the Echoes of Faith at Hatay's St. Pierre Church; Then and Now

St. Pierre Church

St. Pierre Church, located on the western slope of Stauris Mountain near Antakya, is considered the first cave church in the world. St. Pierre, one of Jesus Christ’s apostles, spread Christianity there between CE 29-40, and it was here that the term "Christian" was first used for a religious community. Declared a pilgrimage site by Pope Paul VI in 1963, the church hosts an annual ceremony on June 29th. Originally a cave, it was later converted into a church with a Gothic facade added by the Crusaders. It is on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. Visitors can also explore the nearby St. Simeon Monastery, a significant 5th-century site.

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Discover Culinary Delights: Where Taste Meets Tradition

Eating and drinking are among the most delightful ways to explore a city. In this section, you’ll find a wide array of flavors, from traditional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients to modern culinary creations. Whether you're in search of street food or looking for an exquisite dining experience in a fine restaurant, this city offers plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds.