The Acropolis of Pergamon was the site of the world’s second largest ancient library (after the library at Alexandria, Egypt). Eumenes II loved collecting books, and his library is said to have contained 200,000 books. At one point the rivalry between Alexandria and Pergamon became so intense that Egypt cut off its supply of papyrus to the city. Not to be deterred, Eumenes II challenged his scientists to find a replacement, and they did–pergamen, which is known as parchment in English. Parchment was derived from animal hides rather than pressed papyrus seeds and was more durable and could be written on both sides.
The Temple of Trajan is one of the best preserved structures still remaining on the Pergamon Acropolis. It was restored by the German Archaeological Institute. Scientists from the Institute excavated the entire site over many years, and many of the best artifacts are now contained in the Pergamon Museum of Berlin, Germany. I thought the most interesting structure on the Acropolis was the 10,000-seat theater, which is built into the hillside of the Acropolis and is one of the steepest in the world.
Those fascinated by Roman ruins could easily spend several hours at the Acropolis, especially if the weather is favorable. Our group had plenty of time to walk all over the site before riding the cable car back down to board our bus and drive to the Asclepion.
During the 350 years following the death of Alexander the Great (323 BC) until Pergamon (also spelled Pergamum) became a province of the Roman Empire (129 AD), it was one of the richest and important cities of the Middle East. The city reached its high point during the reign of King Eumenes II (197-159 BC).
Today, visitors can explore the historical remains and significant archaeological excavations at the Pergamon Acropolis, Red Basilica, and at the Asclepion (hospital complex), all of which is in the Turkish province of Izmir and only 16 miles from the Mediterranean Sea.
Located in downtown road to the Acropolis, the Red Basilica was built in the second century BC and was once a temple to the Egyptian God Serapis. In the Book of Revelations in the Christian Bible, St. John the Divine identified this basilica as the throne of the devil and one of the seven churches of the Apocalypse.
The Acropolis is accessed via a cable car, which was built just a few years ago. Previously, buses and cars drove a winding road to the summit, but now visitors park, pay a fee, and ride the cable car to the top. Once you exit the cable car, there’s a cafe and a few shops.
Walking around the ancient site of this important city’s acropolis is quite interesting, and the views of the surrounding countryside, the old Roman aqueducts, Pergamon and Asclepion are terrific.
Looking up at the Temple of Trajan from Athena site
This white stone at Pergamum with names inscribed reminds of Jesus’ words.
This white stone at Pergamum with names inscribed reminds of Jesus’ words: “And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write…He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it” (Rev 2:12, 17).
Acropolis of Pergamon,
Perched on such a prominent position, the Acropolis dates from settlement by the Aeolian Greeks 2800 years ago, although its most prosperous period was in the second century BC. It was considered one of the ancient world's main centres of learning and the remains of the great library are clearly visible. This once housed over 200,000 parchment scrolls with many…
One of the most significant archaeological and ancient historical features of the country. There is a gondola built a few years ago that makes the access to the site easy. This site is definitely not recommended for anyone who has to use wheel chairs, or who relies on having a cane since the surface is very uneven and dangerous. They…
Of the 4 ancient cities we visited in Turkey, Pergamon Acropolis has the most beautiful scenery, whether view at or view from the majestic 10,000 seats amphitheatre, situated high on the hill and built aside the cliff. Our guide told us the non-block open stage of the amphitheater is typical greek style (vs roman style). Pergamon was one of the…
Breathtaking. Make sure you get enough time to take in this fabulous site
The acropolis of Pergamon is (as I suppose all acropolis are) at the highest point in the hills above modern-day Bergama. They're not quite in the same league as Ephesus but definitely worth a visit. You can wonder easily around the ruins and there are more than enough standing to get a good sense of the place. The position on…
I loved the view up on Acropolis. Chances are you will meet some touring groups. Try to listen on the side. I didn't like the price of the ticket. There is a way around, ask your host.
i like it loot recommend loot. there on the top has Temple, super view, teleferic was use full Attilos house was there to..
We had the site to ourselves almost, until about 11am when tors started to flood in. By which time it was so hot, we wanted to retreat to the shade and a cup of tea.
It is worth to see with nice views! In some areas are only some stones left, but the temple and the theater are very impressive. If you walk to the opposit direction of the entrance you are alone in the beautiful nature with nice views to the lake.
I was very impressed with how big Acropolis was once we were on the top. From the ground, it didn't look too impressive but once we were on the top, it was stunning! The theater was amazing and the old temples made you think you were in Greece.