Pergamon, Turkey is among the greatest of the Aegean's ancient cities. This archeological treasure is 26 kilometers (16 miles) from the current-day coast and was the capital city of the Kingdom of Pergamon during the Hellenistic age under the authority of the Attalid dynasty.
The ancient Greek city, also called Pergamum, reached its golden age during Roman times. The site features magnificent architectural wonders, such as what many refer to as "the steepest ancient theater" in the world that had the capacity to accommodate 10,000 spectators. The city's fabled library contained no fewer than 200,000 scrolls, making it second only to the Great Library of Alexandria.
Following Attalus I, subsequent kings added to the beauty of the city by bringing many artworks from Greece to adorn its temples and courtyards. Remnants of the 7th-6th centuries BC still stand today, and the rich cultural legacy of the city impressed UNESCO in 2014 with a designation as a World Heritage site. Visitors can take an exciting journey on their Turkey Tour through centuries of gorgeous history and architectural excellence in this ancient wonderland.
Pergamon`s history existed before its golden period. Though Bronze Age tools were found in the surrounding area, the first documented settlement occurred in Archaic times, with 8th-century BC ceramics showing affiliations to Corinth and eastern Greece.
Pergamon's political importance emerged after Lysimachus, King of Thrace, took control in 301 BC. Philetaerus later founded the powerful Attalid dynasty in 281 BC. The city reached its peak under the Attalid brothers Eumenes II and Attalus II, who launched ambitious construction projects. Rome inherited Pergamon after Attalus III died in 133 BC. The city later became the capital of the Roman province of Asia.
UNESCO designated Pergamon as a World Heritage site in 2014. Its exceptional multi-layered cultural landscape consists of Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. The difficult topography was accommodated by the architects. They established terraced architecture that dominated the plain surrounding, which was also recognized by UNESCO.
The location is authentic because it is continuously occupied by different civilizations. Each one introduced new elements with the continuation of previous cultural traits. Different periods overlap within this complex urban fabric. Physical remains from different eras stand alongside or pile atop one another.
Pergamon's influence stretched beyond its architecture. Its Attalid monarchs built upon the city. Festivals were tactically used by them to create liaisons with nearby towns like Thyateira, Pitane, and Aigai.
These festivals created "theoric networks" - networks where cities sent representatives to religious and cultural festivals. These were subsequently used by Rome to consolidate its hold in the eastern Mediterranean.
Pergamon established territorial markers across the countryside from the 3rd century BC. Grave tumuli and defensive shrines like the Sanctuary of Kybele at Kapıkaya were some of them.
The stunning acropolis of Pergamon, Turkey opens up impressive architectural achievements that define Hellenistic perfection. Ancient builders demonstrated their expertise by positioning these structures on terraced landscapes, testifying to their ability to overcome challenging topography through creative design. Pergamon is among the top landmarks to see on your trip to Turkey.
The Temple of Athena, Pergamon's oldest 4th-century BC sanctuary, possessed Doric columns featuring six short supporting sides and ten long sides. The Temple of Dionysus, built by Eumenes II at the theater terrace's northern end, was approached by a 25-step staircase by the visitors. The Corinthian-type Trajan Temple (Traianeum), dedicated to Zeus and Trajan Emperor, was erected upon a podium surrounded by stoas with resplendent white marble rather than local stone.
Pergamon's library held about 200,000 scrolls, making it second only to Alexandria's collection. Their competition was intensified after the suspension of papyrus exports to Pergamon by Ptolemaic Egypt. The prohibition led the city to make strides with parchment as an alternative writing material. The library lay near the northern stoa of Athena's sanctuary.
The city theater is the steepest in the ancient world with its 70-degree slope and 36-meter elevation. It was a well-preserved structure that housed 10,000 spectators in 78 rows, with walkways separating different sections.. The theater used a dismountable wooden stage rather than a permanent stony platform. The gymnasium complex was one of the biggest in the Greek world. It occupied three terraces that served as physical training areas and also as centers for culture.
Pergamon Turkey's religious significance matched its political might and architectural splendor. This ancient city became a vital religious center where spiritual traditions of all types flourished through the centuries.
Across from Pergamon hill stood the famous healing center, the Asclepieion. Built around a spring, the city became a focal point where pilgrims came for spiritual and physical healing. The god Asclepius was worshiped here as the city's main deity in Roman times. The cult started when one man, Archias, was injured hunting and recovered in Epidauros and brought the practice back to Pergamon. The writings of Aelius Aristides give us a glimpse into the rituals and treatments practiced at this sacred site.
In Roman Emperor Hadrian's reign in the 2nd century AD, the colossal Red Basilica was built to idolize Egyptian gods like Serapis, Isis, and Harpocrates. Its red-brick structure was stunning and even boasted a stream flowing beneath. It was converted to a Christian church in the 5th century, much like Istanbul's Hagia Sophia. It was burned during the Arab raids in the 700s and, in 1336, part of it was converted to a mosque by the Turks. The north part is still used as a mosque today.
Pergamon was among the Seven Churches of Asia mentioned in the Book of Revelation of the Bible. It is described in the text as a city which had "Satan's throne" and most recognize as either the majestic Altar of Zeus or its Roman emperor cult. The early Christians here fought but also established their own permanent mark on the history of the city.
In spite of the reverence for the ancient Greek and Roman gods, the traditional customs of the ancient Anatolians persisted. The mother symbol and fertility goddess Kybele also maintained at least eight cult sites in and around Pergamon. Women seeking children would offer small statues in caves, springs, and hills. During the Byzantine era, the central sanctuary was used as a church for Christianity dedicated to Saint John.
The best times to visit Pergamon are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October). These months offer comfortable weather, which is perfect for walking around the archaeological remains without feeling the intense summer sun.
Wear good shoes since the ground is rough and spread over hills. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, particularly when visiting in warmer weather. A light backpack is useful for carrying items.
Spend half a day or more visiting the main sites: the Acropolis, the Asclepieion, and the Red Basilica. Each of these has its own history and structure, so pacing yourself is important.
Consider going on a Turkey tour or hiring a local guide to maximize your experience. Seasoned guides will give you in-depth context and paint the ruins with life using historical insights.
Visit early morning or later afternoon for best light and fewer crowds. Those times also save you from facing the midday sun, especially on the open Acropolis hilltop.
In ancient times, Pergamon was known for its advanced architecture, vast library rivaling Alexandria’s, and its role as a major center of learning, healing, and emperor worship.
The earliest confirmed settlement at Pergamon dates back to the Archaic period, around the 8th century BC, though the city rose to prominence in the 3rd century BC under the Attalid dynasty.
Today, Pergamon is located in modern-day Turkey near the town of Bergama in İzmir Province. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular stop for history lovers.
One full day is ideal for exploring the main highlights of Pergamon, especially if you're visiting both the Acropolis and the Asclepieion.
Yes, Pergamon is absolutely worth visiting for history lovers and cultural travelers. It offers well-preserved ancient ruins, making it one of Turkey’s most fascinating archaeological sites.