At first glance, modern Akhisar may not reveal much about the ancient city of Thyatira that once stood here. But beneath its streets lies a story shaped by empires, trade, and a fascinating connection to the Bible.​ 

 

Thyatira began as a Lydian town, but its location on the main road between Sardis and Pergamum soon made it strategically important. Around 281 BCE, Seleucus I Nicator settled Macedonian soldiers here, establishing a military colony. In the centuries that followed, Thyatira became a prize contested by powerful kingdoms, including the Seleucids and the Attalids of Pergamum. In 188 BCE, control passed to the Attalids, and in 133 BCE, the city became part of the Roman Empire when the kingdom of Pergamum came under Roman rule.

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Under Roman rule, Thyatira continued to grow as a commercial centre. Its location made it an important stop for merchants, while its textile and dyeing industries became a defining part of local life. Trade guilds played a significant role in the city, connecting people through their work and shared interests.

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​Thyatira: The Longest of the Seven Messages from Jesus

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As we explore the remains of ancient Thyatira, we'll also look at the message Jesus addressed to the congregation here, recorded in Revelation 2:18-29. What can the history of this city help us understand about the setting of his words? Although little of ancient Thyatira remains today, there's still much to discover when we bring its history and the biblical account together.