Pergamon

Pergamon, located in the fertile lands of western Anatolia, stands as a remarkable testament to layered cultural heritage and history. Established in the 3rd century BCE as the capital of the Hellenistic Attalid dynasty, the city became a hub of knowledge and art. Pergamon housed one of the ancient world's largest libraries and revolutionized writing with the invention of parchment.

The city’s architectural and artistic brilliance is epitomized by the Pergamon School of Sculpture, known for its dynamic and emotional style, showcased in masterpieces like the Great Altar of Zeus. The Acropolis, perched atop Kale Hill, reflects the genius of Hellenistic and Roman urban planning, with structures such as the steep theater, three-terraced gymnasium, long stoas, the Trajan Temple, and sophisticated water systems. The Asclepieion, renowned for its sacred springs, served as a pioneering center for ancient medicine.

Pergamon’s religious and cultural significance reflects its multi-layered history and the legacy of different civilizations. Being one of the Seven Churches of Asia, the transformation of the Serapeum to serve various faiths, and its role as a cultural center during the Roman Empire, all underline the city's importance. Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2014, Pergamon stands as a preserved example of Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman architecture and urban planning. Today, its historical structures and archaeological sites continue to provide valuable insights into human history.