Located 100 km from north of Izmir in the Bakircay river basin, Bergama is one of the Turkey’s oldest civilized settlements which, has been inhabited from pre historic times through the Ionic, Roman and Byzantine civilizations. It shares the site of ancient Pergamum (q.v.), of which there are extensive ruins remaining. The modern town lies over the remains of the Roman city, while the remains of the ancient Greek city with its acropolis lie northeast across the Bergama River, on a high hill with terraced slopes. Greek ruins also lie on the western outskirts. The Archaeological Museum in town contains a large collection of artifacts from the area, ranging in age from Paleolithic to Byzantine. The town has cotton and leather industries, and in the surrounding area there is farming in cotton, tobacco, and grapevines.
Usually seen on a two day tour of the Seven Churches of Asia Minor or on an Aegean sea cruise, Pergamon (pop. 40,000) is the site of the ancient cultural city of the same name. Pergamon merits a visit because of its impressive ruins. The ruins include an acropolis with an Altar of Zeus, palaces, gymnasiums, temples, the world’s steepest amphitheater, an Aesculapium (ancient medical center) and a now empty library (it once held 200,000 volumes). Note the familiar symbol of medicine on the base of the Serpent Altar; Pergamon was the home of early medical theoretician Galen, whose teachings held sway for 1,500 years. Unfortunately, the most spectacular treasures from Pergamon can’t be seen there they’re at the Pergamon Museum in Berlin, Germany. Allow a few hours to tour the ruins. 50 mi/80 km north of Izmir.
It has yielded archeological treasures of which importance is recognized world wide. To the southwest of Bergama, Asclepion, an important health center of the ancient world, the acropolis founded on top of a steep hill (300 m) and the Temple of Serapis (Kizil Avlu) make this area a fascinating stop for history loving tourists. The Altar of Zeus was smuggled to Germany in 1897.
History
The modern day name, comes directly from its ancient name, Pergamum. Known for centuries for its monuments, it was a great city and served as the centre of Pergamum kingdom. Its location made it strategic in the Middle Ages and was the centre of the Karesiogullari Principality before it finally became a part of the Ottoman State. The city’s golden era was during the reign of Attalos I and his son Eumenes II, the time when an acropolis, theatre and other important projects were completed.
It was an important city in the Roman period. The city experienced many developments during the reign of Hadrian (117-138 AD), and it was adorned with Roman works of art. In the Byzantine era after the spread of Christianity, Bergama was first under the influence of the bishopric of Ephesus, and then became a metropolis.
Zeus Altar
Built during the years 197-159 B.C. by Eumenes II, King of Pergammon, it was revealed by German archaelogists during excavations made after 1865 in Pergammon and the remains were sent to Berlin. It was restored in the Berlin State Museum and was opened to exhibition in 1871. After that date, the museum acquired the name Pergammon Museum.
Bust of Alexander the Great
This marble bust 42 cm in height was found during the excavations at Pergammon and dates back to 3rd century B.C. of the original busts of Alexander the Great made during his lifetime, none have reached us todaay, we have only found reproductions. The bust found in Pergammon is famous, it being more realistic than the one in Louvre Paris. (Istanbul Archaeological Museum)
Climate
The Mediterranean Climate dominates the region. Summers are hot and dry while winters are mild and rainy.
Access By Road
The main bus station is at the south end of the town centre, although many buses coming from other cities will drop passengers off, on the edge of town. There are regular services from Ayvalik (45 mins) and Izmir (2 hours), and one or two daily to Afyon (7 hours), Ankara (11 hours) and Istanbul (10 hours).
Access By Train
The nearest station is at Soma, 45 km away, which is on the main line between Izmir and Bandirma.
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