History of the Acropolis of Pergamon and why it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Acropolis of Pergamon stands as a monumental testament to the artistic, architectural, and cultural achievements of the Hellenistic period. Located on a 300-meter high hill in what is now modern-day Bergama, Turkey, this ancient city was once the capital of the Kingdom of Pergamon. Its strategic position on the west coast of Asia Minor allowed it to thrive, particularly during the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC.
In the article below, World History Edu provides a comprehensive insight into the multifaceted history and cultural importance of the Acropolis of Pergamon.
Foundation and Rise of Pergamon
The city of Pergamon’s roots trace back to the fall of the Persian Empire, when Alexander the Great‘s conquests reshaped the ancient world. After Alexander’s death in 323 BC, his vast empire was divided among his generals, leading to the formation of the Hellenistic kingdoms.
Pergamon came under the rule of Lysimachus, one of Alexander’s generals, who deposited a significant amount of wealth there. Following Lysimachus’s death, Philetaerus used this wealth to establish the Attalid dynasty in 282 BC, marking the beginning of Pergamon’s rise as a political power.
Pergamon’s story begins in earnest after the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BC, when his empire was divided among his generals. The city came under the control of Lysimachus and subsequently Philetaerus, who founded the Attalid dynasty in 282 BC. Image: Mosaic of Alexander the Great.
The Attalid Dynasty and Cultural Prosperity
Under the Attalids, Pergamon experienced its golden age, particularly during the reigns of Eumenes II (197-159 BC) and his brother Attalus II (159-138 BC). These rulers expanded the kingdom, successfully navigating the complex political landscape of the Hellenistic world.
They were also great patrons of the arts and sciences, transforming Pergamon into a renowned cultural hub. The Acropolis of Pergamon reflects this era’s grandeur through its spectacular architectural and artistic achievements.
Architectural Marvels
The most striking feature of the Acropolis is the Great Altar of Pergamon, believed to have been constructed during the reign of Eumenes II. This monumental structure is famous for its high-relief frieze depicting the Gigantomachy, a mythical battle between the gods and giants. This frieze is a masterpiece of Hellenistic art, illustrating the period’s dynamic and emotional style. The altar’s dramatic expressions and intricate details exemplify the artistic advancements of the time.
Adjacent to the Great Altar stands the Temple of Athena, constructed under the auspices of Eumenes II. This temple honored the goddess Athena, whom the Pergamenes considered their divine protector. Its classical design and orientation toward the city symbolize Athena’s watchful presence over Pergamon.
Another significant structure is the Library of Pergamon, which rivaled the famous Library of Alexandria. Housing over 200,000 volumes, it attracted scholars from across the Hellenistic world. The library’s holdings were so esteemed that the Roman general Antony reportedly gave them to Cleopatra as a wedding gift.
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The Theatre and Sanctuary
The theatre of Pergamon is another architectural marvel, renowned for its steep seating arrangement that could accommodate around 10,000 spectators. Carved into the hillside, it offers a dramatic vista overlooking the valley below. This theatre showcases the engineering prowess of the Pergamenes, as it is one of the steepest ancient theatres in the world.
Near the theatre is the Sanctuary of Trajan, also known as the Trajaneum. Built during the Roman era when Pergamon was part of the Roman Empire, this sanctuary was dedicated to Emperor Trajan, highlighting the continuation of Pergamon’s importance through the ages.
Scientific Achievements
Pergamon was not only a center of artistic and architectural innovation but also of scientific advancement. Galen, one of the most prominent physicians of the ancient world, was born in Pergamon in 129 CE. His works and theories would dominate European and Islamic medicine for centuries.
Key attractions include the Temple of Trajan, the Theatre of Pergamon, which is one of the steepest theatres in the world, the Altar of Zeus, and the remains of the Library of Pergamon, which was once a major cultural hub. Image: Ruins of the Theatre of Pergamon.
Decline and Legacy
The decline of Pergamon began when it was absorbed into the Roman Empire in 133 BC, following the bequest of the last Attalid king, Attalus III, who left his kingdom to Rome in his will. Although it became a major Roman provincial capital, its cultural and political influence waned over time.
Today, the Acropolis of Pergamon is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its monumental and historical significance. The ruins continue to attract scholars and tourists alike, drawn by its stunning relics of a bygone era. The enduring legacy of Pergamon’s Acropolis is its testimony to the creative and intellectual achievements of the Hellenistic period, reflecting a unique blend of artistic vigor, architectural innovation, and scholarly tradition that continues to captivate and inspire.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Acropolis of Pergamon:
What is the Acropolis of Pergamon?
The Acropolis of Pergamon was the ceremonial and political center of the ancient city of Pergamon. Situated on a high, steep hill, it includes a variety of significant structures such as temples, a theatre, and the famous library.
Where is the Acropolis of Pergamon located?
It is located in the modern-day town of Bergama, within the Izmir Province of Turkey.
What geographical features contributed to Pergamon’s historical development?
To be more specific, Pergamon is located in the Bakırçay Basin, bordered by the Kozak Mountains to the north and the Yund Mountains to the south. This strategic location provided natural defense and control over the surrounding region, aiding its development through various civilizations from as early as 3000 BC.
Who are considered the mythical founders of Pergamon?
According to ancient texts, Pergamon may have been founded by the mythical figures Pergamos or Telephos, the latter being a son of the Greek hero Heracles. These accounts highlight the city’s significant role and revered status in ancient Greek mythology and culture.
What was the role of the Attalid dynasty in Pergamon’s history?
The Attalid dynasty, established by Philetarios in 282 BC, marked the beginning of Pergamon’s rise to prominence. Under the Attalids, particularly during the reign of Eumenes II, Pergamon became a major cultural and political hub, rivaling other Hellenistic cities. The dynasty was known for its patronage of the arts and substantial architectural contributions.
Rising high above the Bakırçay Plain in Turkey’s Aegean region, the Acropolis of Pergamon was the capital of the Hellenistic Attalid dynasty and a prominent center of learning. Image: Ruins of Pergamon.
What are some of the key architectural features of Pergamon’s acropolis?
Pergamon’s acropolis is famed for its terraced layout, which was an engineering solution to the steep terrain. Notable structures include the Great Altar of Zeus, known for its Gigantomachy frieze, the steeply raked Theatre, the Sanctuary of Athena, and the historically significant Library of Pergamon.
How did Pergamon’s Library compare to the Library of Alexandria?
The Library of Pergamon was one of the few to rival Alexandria’s library, boasting a collection of over 200,000 scrolls. It became a vital scholarly hub and is noted for its role in the invention of parchment, which was developed in response to a papyrus embargo imposed by Alexandria.
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What changes occurred in Pergamon during the Roman period?
After being bequeathed to Rome around 133 BC by Attalus III, Pergamon maintained its status and continued to thrive under Roman rule. Romans respected the city’s Hellenistic structures while also adding significant buildings, such as the Temple of Trajan, and enhancing the city’s infrastructure, including its aqueduct system.
What was the impact of Byzantine and Ottoman rule on Pergamon?
During the Byzantine era, Pergamon’s prominence waned, but it remained an important local center. Under Ottoman rule, the city saw the introduction of Islamic architecture, including mosques, baths, and markets, which overlay the ancient and Byzantine structures, contributing to its multi-layered historical landscape.
How was Pergamon rediscovered, and what controversies arose from this?
Pergamon was rediscovered in the 19th century by German archaeologists, who excavated many of its treasures, including the Great Altar of Zeus, which was subsequently moved to Berlin. This led to significant controversies regarding the removal and possession of ancient artifacts.
Why is Pergamon recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site today?
Pergamon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its extensive ruins that showcase architectural innovation, cultural richness, and the arts across several millennia. Ongoing excavations and research continue to reveal the depth of its history and the resilience of its people, making it a key site for understanding ancient civilizations.
How can I visit the Acropolis of Pergamon?
Visitors can reach the site by flying into Izmir, Turkey, and then driving or taking public transportation to Bergama. The site is open to tourists, and it is advisable to allocate at least half a day for a visit due to its size and the number of structures to explore.
What should I know before visiting?
Since the site involves a lot of walking on uneven surfaces, wearing comfortable shoes is recommended. Also, considering the lack of shade, bringing sunscreen, hats, and sufficient water is advisable, especially during the summer months.
Are there any preservation efforts for the Acropolis of Pergamon?
Yes, ongoing preservation efforts are in place to maintain the integrity of the structures. These efforts are often conducted by international archaeological teams in collaboration with Turkish authorities.
Under the Attalids, Pergamon rose to prominence, enjoying its golden age, especially during the reigns of Eumenes II (197-159 BC) and his brother Attalus II (159-138 BC). Image: Bust of Eumenes II.
What did the Great Altar of Zeus feature?
Pergamon’s acropolis contained a plethora of significant structures: the Great Altar of Zeus, renowned for its monumental frieze depicting the battle between the gods and the giants (Gigantomachy), the Temple of Athena, a steeply raked theatre, and a stoa.
Who were the Attalid kings and how did they impact Pergamon?
The Attalid dynasty was founded by Philetaerus in 282 BC and reached its zenith under the reigns of Eumenes II and Attalus II. The Attalids were known for their strong patronage of the arts and made significant contributions to Pergamon’s architectural and cultural development, including the expansion of the acropolis.
How did Roman rule affect Pergamon?
After being bequeathed to Rome by Attalus III in 133 BC, Pergamon remained a significant urban center, serving as the capital of the Roman province of Asia. The Romans preserved many Hellenistic structures and added their own, including the expansion of the Asclepius Sanctuary.
Noteworthy structures on the Acropolis of Pergamon include the Great Altar of Zeus, famous for its Gigantomachy frieze, the steeply raked Theatre, the Temple of Athena, and a stoa. These structures are celebrated for their innovative adaptations to the challenging steep terrain of the acropolis. Image: Temple of Athena.
What role did the Sanctuary of Asclepius play in Pergamon?
The Sanctuary of Asclepius, a famed healing center, lay at the base of the Acropolis of Pergamon, featuring a sacred spring whose waters were believed to have healing properties. This sanctuary included a library, a theatre, and dormitories for patients, representing an early form of a health spa or hospital.
What was the role of Pergamon during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods?
During the Byzantine period, Pergamon’s prominence declined with the rise of Constantinople but it remained a vital local center. Under Ottoman rule, it integrated more with the empire through the addition of mosques, baths, and markets, illustrating a multi-layered cultural landscape.
