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Patara

Locations
Modern Location GelemiÅŸ, Kalkan, KaÅŸ, Antalya Province, Turkey
Coordinates 36.2667° N, 29.3167° E

Geographical Setting

Patara was an ancient port city in Lycia, situated on the southwestern coast of modern-day Turkey.

What is the meaning of Patara in the Bible?

Patara was a coastal city in ancient Lycia, distinguished by its natural harbor and role as a commercial hub, as well as its sanctuary dedicated to Apollo and its association with the birth of Saint Nicholas.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding Patara provides geographical context for the Apostle Paul's journey to Jerusalem, where he stopped to meet with the disciples, and clarifies the historical setting of Saint Nicholas's life, offering insight into the early Christian communities of the region.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Patara (located near modern GelemiÅŸ, Kalkan, KaÅŸ, Antalya Province, Turkey) held strategic importance. Understanding its position and trade routes explains why key biblical events unfolded here.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
  • Why did the biblical author mention Patara in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Patara clarify?

Related Topics

BozcathMishnehEunatanKarkorHezron (2)Akeldama

Source Attribution

Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.

How to Cite This Entry

"Patara." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/patara/
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