Pergamon (Pergamum): World’s First Hospital

Pergamon, also known as Pergamum, was an ancient city located in the Anatolia region, approximately 25 kilometers from the Aegean Sea in present-day Turkey. The city was the capital of the Kingdom of Pergamon during the Hellenistic period, under the Attalid dynasty, 281–133 BC. Pergamon was noted in antiquity for its cultural and political importance.

One of the key attractions of Pergamon is the ancient Acropolis. The Acropolis of Pergamon is home to several unique historical structures such as the Altar of Zeus, the Library of Pergamon, the Trajaneum (Temple of Trajan), and the Theatre, one of the steepest theatres in the ancient world.

The Pergamon Library was one of the most important libraries in the ancient world and was considered to rival the Library of Alexandria. At its height, the library was believed to contain 200,000 volumes.

The Altar of Zeus at Pergamon has been called “the most magnificent monument of Hellenistic sculpture.” It is decorated with a frieze in high relief showing the battle between the Giants and the Olympian gods.

Pergamon is also noted for its parchment (charta pergamena), a writing material made from calfskin, which gained popularity after the Library of Pergamon seemingly aimed to rival the Library of Alexandria, leading to restrictions on papyrus by Ptolemaic Egypt.

In 2014, Pergamon and its multi-layered cultural landscape were inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Today, the ruins of this ancient city make it a popular tourist destination, with thousands visiting each year to see its historical and architectural wonders.

Pergamon, now known as Bergama, is located in the Aegean region of Turkey. Here are some ways to get there:

By Air:

The nearest airport to Bergama is the Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport. From there, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to drive to Bergama, which is about 100 km away and usually takes about an hour and a half. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Izmir to Bergama.

By Bus:

There are regular intercity buses that travel to Bergama from major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. The journey from Istanbul takes about 10 hours, from Ankara, it’s around 9 hours, and from Izmir, it’s about 2 hours.

By Train:

There is a train station in Bergama, but the service is limited. Most people prefer to travel by bus or car.

Once you’re in Bergama, the ancient city of Pergamon is easily accessible. It’s located on a hill and there are regular minibusses (dolmus) from the town center that go up to the site. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or walk if you’re up for a bit of a hike.

When packing for Pergamon, consider the season of your visit, as well as the activities you plan to partake in. Here are some general recommendations:

Clothing:

Summer (June – August): Pack lightweight and breathable clothing, as temperatures can get quite high. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection against the sun.

Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September – November): The weather is generally mild, but can be unpredictable. Pack layers including t-shirts, light sweaters or jackets, and comfortable pants or shorts. A light rain jacket or umbrella may also be useful.

Winter (December – February): It can get quite cold, especially in the evenings. Pack warm clothing like sweaters, long pants, and a coat. A scarf, gloves, and a hat are also recommended.

Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you’ll likely spend a lot of time on your feet exploring the ruins. If you’re visiting in the summer, you might also want to pack sandals.

Other Essentials:

Water Bottle: Especially during the summer months, it’s important to stay hydrated.

Sunscreen: Regardless of the season, protect your skin from sun damage.

Camera: Pergamon is a historical site with beautiful views, perfect for photography.

Guidebook or Map: While many people rely on their smartphones, having a physical guidebook or map can be helpful.

Power Adapter: If you’re traveling from abroad, remember Turkey uses European-style two-pin round prong plugs.

Personal Medications and First Aid Kit: Always have necessary medications and a small first aid kit on hand.

Pergamon, now known as Bergama, has several accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. Here are a few recommendations:

Akropolis Guest House: A charming guesthouse located close to the center of Bergama. It offers comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere. The owners are known for their hospitality and helpful tips about the local area.

Athena Pension: This is a budget-friendly option that offers basic but clean and comfortable rooms. It’s located in a quiet area but still within walking distance of the main attractions.

Bergama Hotel: A more upscale option, Bergama Hotel offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a pool. It’s located a bit further from the city center but offers great comfort and amenities.

Ayvazali Hotel: This is a mid-range hotel located in the city center. It offers comfortable rooms and a good breakfast.

Berksoy Hotel: This hotel is a bit outside of the city but offers a pool and a nice view of the surrounding area. It’s a good option if you have a car or don’t mind a short taxi ride into the city.

Pergamon, now known as Bergama, is located in the Aegean region of Turkey and has a Mediterranean climate. Here’s what you can generally expect:

Spring (March to May): The weather during these months is typically mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). It’s an excellent time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer (June to August): The summer months in Bergama can be quite hot, with average high temperatures reaching around 30°C (86°F) to 35°C (95°F). It’s the peak tourist season, so expect more crowds at popular sites.

Autumn (September to November): Similar to spring, the weather during the fall is usually mild and enjoyable. Temperatures typically range from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). This is another great time for outdoor activities.

Winter (December to February): Winters are relatively mild compared to many other parts of Turkey, with temperatures averaging between 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F). However, rain is more common during this season.

The best time to visit Pergamon (now known as Bergama) largely depends on your personal preferences for weather and crowd sizes. However, generally, the most favorable times to visit are:

Spring (March to May): The weather is mild, making it a great time to explore the outdoor archaeological sites. The tourist crowds are also less dense compared to the summer months.

Autumn (September to November): Similar to spring, the weather is usually pleasant and the summer crowds have thinned out.

If you don’t mind the heat and prefer a more vibrant atmosphere, summer (June to August) could also be a good time to visit. This is the peak tourist season, so the city and archaeological sites can be quite busy, but the weather is typically sunny and warm.

Winter (December to February) is the least popular time to visit due to cooler temperatures and increased chances of rain. However, it’s also the time when you’ll find the least amount of tourists, and the temperatures are still relatively mild compared to many other locations.

Pergamon, now known as Bergama in modern-day Turkey, has a rich history dating back to ancient times.

Early History: The earliest archaeological evidence suggests that the site was inhabited as far back as the Bronze Age. Pergamon first gained prominence in the 3rd century BCE, under the rule of the Attalid dynasty.

Attalid Dynasty: The Attalids were former generals of Lysimachus, one of Alexander the Great’s successors. After his death, they declared independence and established the Kingdom of Pergamon. Under the Attalids, Pergamon became a major center of Greek culture and education, renowned for its library, which was said to rival the famous Library of Alexandria.

Roman Period: In 133 BCE, King Attalus III died without an heir and bequeathed Pergamon to the Roman Republic. Pergamon then became the capital of the Roman province of Asia. During this time, the city continued to flourish.

Byzantine Era and Beyond: With the division of the Roman Empire, Pergamon became part of the Eastern Roman Empire, later known as the Byzantine Empire. The city remained an important center until it gradually declined during the Middle Ages.

Archaeological Significance: Today, the ruins of Pergamon are a major archaeological site. The most significant remains include the Hellenistic Great Altar of Zeus, the Sanctuary of Asclepius (also known as the Asclepion), a large theater, and the ruins of the ancient library. In 2014, Pergamon and its cultural landscape were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Pergamon, now known as Bergama, was a significant center of culture, medicine, and learning in the ancient world. Here are a few of its famous firsts and greatest achievements:

Library of Pergamon: This was one of the most important libraries in the ancient world and was said to be second only to the Library of Alexandria. It was home to a vast collection of parchment scrolls, which were reportedly used when the supply of papyrus from Egypt was cut off. This led to a significant development: the use of parchment, or vellum, as a writing material, often associated with Pergamon.

Great Altar of Zeus: One of the greatest works of Hellenistic art and architecture, the Great Altar of Zeus, is thought to have been constructed in the 2nd century BCE. The altar is decorated with a detailed frieze that depicts the Gigantomachy, a mythical battle between the gods and the giants.

Asclepion: The Asclepion of Pergamon was one of the most famous ancient medical centers, where methods such as dream therapy were used. The renowned physician Galen was born in Pergamon and started his medical career here before moving to Rome.

Red Basilica: Built during the Roman era, the Red Basilica, or Serapeum, was originally a temple dedicated to the Egyptian gods Serapis and Isis. Later, it became one of the Seven Churches of Revelation in Christian tradition.

Acropolis: Much like its namesake in Athens, the Acropolis of Pergamon is situated on a hill and contains numerous important buildings, including the Library, the Altar of Zeus, and the Temple of Athena.

Theatre: The theatre of Pergamon is one of the steepest in the ancient world. With a seating capacity of approximately 10,000, it offered a panoramic view of the countryside below.

Pergamon’s Influence on Art and Culture: Pergamon played a key role in the development of the Hellenistic style in art and architecture. This period saw a shift from the idealized forms of Classical Greek art to more realistic portrayals of subjects and increased emotional expressiveness. The Pergamon style was influential in the subsequent development of Roman art.

Pergamon, now known as Bergama in modern-day Turkey, is an ancient city that’s home to numerous historical and archaeological sites. Here are some of the most important:

The Acropolis: This is the main site of ancient Pergamon, perched on a hilltop and offering a panoramic view of the surrounding region. Here you’ll find the remains of several significant structures including the Temple of Athena, the Library of Pergamon, and the Royal Palaces.

The Great Altar of Zeus: This monumental construction, with its famous frieze depicting the battle between the gods and the giants (Gigantomachy), was one of the grandest structures in the Hellenistic world. Its remains are now in the Pergamon Museum in Berlin, but the site of the altar can still be visited.

The Theatre: One of the steepest ancient theatres in the world, the Theatre of Pergamon could accommodate around 10,000 spectators. It provides an impressive view of the valley below.

The Temple of Dionysus: Near the theatre, this temple was dedicated to Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and celebration. Its ruins are still visible today.

The Asclepion: This was one of the most famous healing centers in the ancient world, dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine. The ruins include a theatre, sacred spring, treatment rooms, and a long stoa or colonnade.

Red Basilica (Serapeum): Originally built as a temple for Egyptian gods and later converted into a Christian church, the Red Basilica is a monumental structure located in the lower city near the Bergama River.

The Upper and Lower Agora: These were the main public squares in ancient Pergamon, where people gathered for a variety of social, political, and commercial activities.

The Gymnasium: This training facility for athletes in ancient Greece is divided into three terraces corresponding to different age groups.

Arsenal: Located on the southern slope of the Acropolis, this was where weapons and military equipment were stored.

Temple of Trajan: Dedicated to Emperor Trajan, this temple is one of the most spectacular structures on the Acropolis, with its beautiful Corinthian columns.

Pergamon (now known as Bergama) was an influential city during the Hellenistic period, and many important figures were associated with it. Here are some of the most notable ones:

Attalus I: He was the king who expanded the Kingdom of Pergamon and made it a significant power in the Hellenistic world. He also started the construction of the Great Altar of Zeus, one of Pergamon’s most famous monuments.

Eumenes II: Eumenes II was the son of Attalus I and the most successful ruler of the Attalid dynasty, which ruled Pergamon in the Hellenistic period. He greatly expanded the Library of Pergamon, making it the second most important library in the ancient world, only after the Library of Alexandria.

Galen: One of the most accomplished medical researchers of antiquity, Galen was born in Pergamon. His theories dominated European medicine for more than a millennium.

Aulus Cornelius Celsus: A Roman encyclopaedist, known for his extant medical work, De Medicina, which is believed to be the only surviving section of a much larger encyclopedia. He is often associated with the famous medical school of Pergamon.

Here are the top 15 things to do when visiting:

1. Visit the Pergamon Acropolis: Explore the ruins of the ancient city, including the Temple of Athena, the Pergamon Library, and the Royal Palaces.
2. Check out the Great Altar of Zeus: Although the frieze from the altar is in the Pergamon Museum in Berlin, the site itself is still worth a visit.
3. Take a seat at the Ancient Theatre: This steep theatre could accommodate around 10,000 spectators and provides a magnificent view of the valley below.
4. Explore the Asclepion: Visit this ancient healing center dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine.
5. Walk through the Red Basilica (Serapeum): Originally an Egyptian temple, it was later converted into a Christian church.
6. Discover the Agora: These were the main public squares in ancient Pergamon, where people gathered for social, political, and commercial activities.
7. Visit the Bergama Museum: Learn more about the history and archaeology of Pergamon and its surroundings.
8. Stroll through the Bergama Old Town: Enjoy the traditional Ottoman architecture and local shops and restaurants.
9. Visit the Archeological Site of Allianoi: A nearby ancient thermal bath complex, now submerged due to dam construction.
10. Take a trip to the Kestel Dam: This dam is a popular local spot for picnics and enjoying the outdoors.
11. Visit the Bergama Mosque: This beautiful mosque in the center of Bergama is worth a visit for its stunning architecture.
12. Explore the Selinus River: Enjoy a peaceful walk along the river, which was crucial for the ancient city.
13. Try Local Cuisine: Sample the delicious local Turkish cuisine at local restaurants and cafes.
14. Shop at local markets: Browse the local markets for traditional Turkish goods and souvenirs.
15. Attend a local festival: If you happen to visit during a cultural or arts festival, be sure to join in on the fun!

Pergamon, known today as Bergama, has a rich historical and cultural heritage. Here are some of the best places to visit:

The Pergamon Acropolis: This is the main attraction in Pergamon. You can see ruins of ancient structures like the Temple of Athena, the Royal Palaces, and remnants of the Pergamon Library.

The Great Altar of Zeus: Even though most of the frieze is now in the Pergamon Museum in Berlin, the site itself offers fantastic views of the surrounding area.

The Ancient Theatre of Pergamon: This steep and impressive theatre is one of the steepest in the ancient world and offers an incredible view of the valley below.

The Asclepion: This was one of the most famous healing centers in the ancient world. It was dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine.

The Red Basilica (also known as the Serapeum): Originally an Egyptian temple, it was converted into a church in the Byzantine era.

The Bergama Museum: To get a detailed insight into the rich history and culture of Pergamon, a visit to the local archaeological museum is a must. It houses many artifacts from the area.

The Agora: The public square in Roman times, the Agora was the center of political, commercial, and social activities.

The Bergama Old Town: Take a stroll through the old town of Bergama to get a feel of the traditional Ottoman architecture and local life.

There are many ways to tour Pergamon, whether you prefer a guided tour, self-guided exploration, or a mix of both. Here are some of the best tour options:

Pergamon Day Trip from Izmir: These tours typically include round-trip transportation, and a guided tour of Pergamon’s major sites like the Acropolis, the Asclepion, and the Red Basilica. Some tours might also include lunch.

Pergamon and Asclepion Day Trip from Kusadasi: Similar to the Izmir trip, this one starts from Kusadasi. It usually includes transportation, a professional guide, entrance fees, and lunch.

Private Pergamon Tour: If you prefer a more personalized experience, consider booking a private tour. This option allows you to customize the itinerary to your interests.

Pergamon and Troy 2-Day Tour from Istanbul: This tour includes an overnight stay and covers not only Pergamon but also the ancient city of Troy.

Self-Guided Tour: If you prefer exploring at your own pace, consider renting a car or hiring a taxi for the day and exploring Pergamon on your own. There’s plenty of signage and information available at the sites.

Virtual Tours: If you cannot travel, consider a virtual tour. Many museums and historical sites are offering these online experiences.

Walking Tour: There are several walking tours available that take you through the ancient city and explain its history and architecture.