Bergama: The Ancient City of Pergamon
Bergama: The Ancient City of Pergamon
Location: İzmir – Bergama
Bergama, another UNESCO World Heritage site located in İzmir, is positioned in the northern part of the city. The name "Pergamon" translates to "castle," which is indicative of its remarkable Acropolis—an elevated city encircled by ancient fortifications, encompassing notable structures such as the Temple of Athena and the Altar of Zeus. In the lower city, the Askleipion functioned as a prominent health center during the Hellenistic period and was dedicated to Asklepios, the deity of healing. It was believed that death could not penetrate the Askleipion, and severe cases were not admitted. Bergama is also renowned for its steep ancient theater, which could accommodate up to fifteen thousand spectators, and the illustrious Pergamene Library, which once housed approximately 200,000 volumes inscribed on Pergamene parchment.
Photo Credit: visitizmir.org
