The Ancient City of Pergamon

Located in the north of the Aegean Region, in today's Bergama district of İzmir Province, the ancient city of Pergamon was one of the most significant cultural, religious, and political centers of antiquity. Bearing the traces of many civilizations—from the Hellenistic period to the Roman Empire, and from Byzantium to the Ottoman era—the city showcases the historical richness of Anatolia through its architecture and strategic location.

Historical and Political Development

The history of Pergamon dates back to the 4th century BCE. The city gained prominence when Lysimachus, one of Alexander the Great’s generals, entrusted his treasure there. In the 3rd century BCE, it became the capital of the Attalid dynasty. Especially during the reign of Eumenes II (197–159 BCE), Pergamon experienced a golden age in science, art, and architecture, becoming one of the brightest cities of the Hellenistic world.

In 133 BCE, King Attalus III bequeathed the city to the Roman Empire, making Pergamon the capital of the Roman province of Asia. The temples, theaters, and agoras built during this period reflect the city's continued political and cultural importance. Under Byzantine rule, Pergamon became a bishopric and played a key role in early Christian history. During the Ottoman era, it came to be known as Bergama, and a new settlement gradually formed around the ancient ruins.

Religious History

Pergamon was a major center of polytheistic worship and also held great significance in the history of early Christianity. Temples dedicated to deities such as Zeus, Athena, Asclepius, and Dionysus adorned the city. In particular, the Asclepion was one of the most renowned healing centers of the ancient world, where both religious and medical treatments were practiced.

Pergamon is one of the Seven Churches of Asia mentioned in the Book of Revelation in the New Testament. Referred to in Revelation 2:12–17 as “the place where Satan's throne is,” this likely alludes to the city's massive Altar of Zeus. This phrase reflects the pressures early Christians faced in the city. Despite this, Christianity took root, and Pergamon later became a prominent bishopric during the Byzantine period.

Geographical Location

Pergamon was built on a naturally fortified acropolis overlooking the Bakırçay (Kaikos) River valley. This location provided both defensive advantages and easy access to surrounding agricultural lands. Situated approximately 25 kilometers from the Aegean Sea, the city lay at the crossroads of routes leading north to the Gulf of Edremit and south to the Gulf of İzmir.

The city's acropolis, perched atop a steep hill, housed its political and religious structures, while residential and commercial areas developed along its slopes. This unique topography played a key role in the city's architectural planning.

Architectural Features

Pergamon’s architecture blends the elegance of Hellenistic design with the grandeur of Roman construction. The acropolis contains key structures such as the Temple of Athena, the Temple of Trajan, the library, palace ruins, and the agora. The Pergamon Library, in particular, was considered the second-largest in the ancient world, housing over 200,000 scrolls. According to legend, when Egypt banned the export of papyrus due to competition with the Library of Alexandria, Pergamon pioneered the use of parchment (pergamina), named after the city.

One of the steepest ancient theaters in the world is also found in Pergamon, accommodating up to 10,000 spectators, underscoring the city's dedication to the arts. The monumental Altar of Zeus, known for its detailed friezes and sculptural reliefs, stands as both an architectural and artistic masterpiece. Today, this altar is housed in the Pergamon Museum in Berlin and remains a powerful symbol of the city’s religious and political significance.

Located to the southwest of the city center, the Asclepion was a comprehensive healing complex that implemented advanced medical practices of the time. Dedicated to the god of healing, Asclepius, the complex included a temple, theater, underground tunnels, and treatment areas. The renowned physician Galen, considered second only to Hippocrates, is believed to have trained here.

Conclusion

The ancient city of Pergamon is not merely an archaeological site but a passage through civilizations. With its religious structures, political significance, and contributions to science and the arts, it remains a rare legacy that continues to inspire. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pergamon offers visitors a vivid sense of ancient grandeur and wisdom, standing as a timeless symbol of human achievement.