Plizio Visual Lab
Pergamon
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
ruin
Pergamon was a powerful ancient Greek city in Mysia, located near the modern-day town of Bergama in Turkey. During the Attalid dynasty in the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC, it emerged as a preeminent cultural and political hub of the Hellenistic world. The acropolis features the steepest theater of antiquity, ingeniously built into the hillside to accommodate 10,000 spectators. The Great Altar of Pergamon, famous for its dramatic gigantomachy frieze, was once the crown jewel of the city before its relocation to Berlin. The city's library was the second largest in the ancient world, housing over 200,000 scrolls and prompting the innovation of parchment as a writing surface. In the Roman period, Pergamon became the first official center of the imperial cult in the province of Asia and remained a vital urban center through the Byzantine era.
- Location: Turkey
- Top sights: The Great Altar (Pergamon Altar) · Pergamon Acropolis · Temple of Athena
- Nearby: Dikili (26 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 8 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 19 | 23 | 26 | 26 | 23 | 18 | 14 | 10 |
| Rain mm | 116 | 91 | 58 | 48 | 29 | 19 | 4 | 3 | 20 | 53 | 73 | 101 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The ancient ruins allow for extensive outdoor exploration across multiple elevated terraces, featuring remarkable surviving structures and monumental foundations. Wandering among these cultural remnants provides a profound sense of the ancient city's former grandeur in Asia Minor.
Typical hours
The archaeological site generally follows standard daytime operating schedules, opening early in the morning and closing shortly before dusk throughout the year. During the sweltering summer months, visiting as soon as the gates open is crucial to avoid the intense, unshaded heat.
Photography
The dramaticly steep ancient theater carved into the hillside presents one of the most magnificent architectural photography opportunities in the region. Wide scenic shots capturing the sweeping valleys below are especially striking during the softer light of late afternoon.
Time needed
Thoroughly touring the acropolis and appreciating the scale of the scattered monuments typically demands about two to three hours of dedicated walking. Those with a deep interest in classical history should budget extra time to carefully examine the informational signage.
Combine with
The visit is ideally paired with the nearby local archaeological museums in the modern town below, which house many exquisite artifacts excavated directly from the hill. Additionally, other ancient regional ruins and classical centers are situated just a short drive away.
Getting there
While the lower modern town is easily reached by regional transit, ascending to the lofty ruins is best achieved by utilizing the dedicated modern cable car system. Driving your own vehicle up the winding access road is possible but often discouraged due to limited summit parking.
Insider tip
Because the archaeological site sits completely exposed on a high ridge, forceful winds are remarkably common regardless of the season, making a light jacket a wise precaution. Solid, closed-toe footwear is absolutely essential for navigating the ancient paving stones safely.
Geography
Facts
- The Acropolis sits approximately 335 meters above sea level on a dominant hilltop.
- The Great Theater of Pergamon features a 70-degree incline and could hold 10,000 people.
- The Library of Pergamon was established by Eumenes II to house 200,000 parchment scrolls.
- The Sanctuary of Asclepius was a major healing center where the physician Galen practiced.
- Pergamon was officially inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2014.
- The Attalid Kingdom ended when Attalus III bequeathed the city to Rome in 133 BC.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Pergamon (10)
Upper Agora
Upper Agora of Pergamon, the central marketplace of the upper city, surrounded by stoas.
Pergamon
Ancient city in modern-day Turkey, known for its acropolis and library.
Arsenal
Arsenal of Pergamon, ruins of an ancient weapons depot on the acropolis.
Bergamalı Kadri Eğitim Tarihi Müzesi🏛 museum
Museum in Bergama displaying the history of education in the region.
Kale Mahallesi
Neighborhood in Bergama at the foot of the acropolis, with traditional houses.
Ansarlı Cami
Mosque in Bergama, a historic Islamic place of worship.
Kaymakamlık Atatürk Anıtı
Atatürk monument in front of the district office in Bergama.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to the Acropolis?
By cable car from the city of Bergama.
How steep is the theater?
Very steep, one of the steepest ancient theaters in the world.
Is there a lot of walking?
Yes, the site is vast and has many uneven paths.
What must one see in Bergama?
The Acropolis and the Asclepion are the two main attractions.
How much time do I need?
Plan a full day for both sites.
Pergamon: where is it located?
Pergamon is located in Turkey.
Pergamon: what is there to see?
Highlights include The Great Altar (Pergamon Altar), Pergamon Acropolis, Temple of Athena.
Pergamon: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Pergamon: why is it worth visiting?
Pergamon was a powerful ancient Greek city in Mysia, located near the modern-day town of Bergama in Turkey.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Turkey →
Nearby cities
Izmir
Izmir is a metropolis on the Aegean coast, featuring Turkey's second-largest port.
Kuşadası
A bustling cruise port and the main gateway to the ancient ruins of Ephesus.
Bodrum
An elegant port city combining ancient wonders with modern luxury and a vibrant nightlife.
Didim
A popular coastal resort known for the ancient Temple of Apollo and the expansive golden sands of Altınkum Beach.
Seferihisar
Seferihisar is Turkey's first Cittaslow municipality, combining historical ruins, a lively marina, and mandarin orchards.
Sığacık (Seferihisar)
Turkey's first 'Cittaslow' (Slow City), famous for its Ottoman castle walls and authentic organic Sunday market.
Foça
Foça is an enchanting Aegean fishing town with ancient roots, historic stone houses, and the rare Mediterranean monk seals.
Dikili
Dikili is a coastal town in İzmir with over 40 kilometers of fine sandy beaches, natural thermal springs, and forested mountains.
Alaçatı
A charming Aegean town famous for its historic stone houses, narrow streets, and world-class windsurfing conditions.
Karaburun
Karaburun is a mountainous peninsula in İzmir province, offering secluded bays, olive groves, and narcissus fields.
Yahşibey
Yahşibey is a charming Turkish coastal village in the Aegean region, known for its historic stone houses and olive groves.
🗺️
Denizköy
Denizköy is a peaceful coastal village on Turkey's Aegean coast, offering crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and authentic local charm.
Kemalpaşa
Kemalpaşa is a serene coastal destination in Turkey, offering crystal-clear Aegean waters and pristine hidden coves.
Pelitköy
Pelitköy is a beautiful coastal settlement in Turkey's Aegean region, surrounded by lush olive groves.
Karaağaç
A picturesque Turkish coastal settlement in the Aegean region, offering pristine bays, olive groves, and a relaxing holiday experience.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
Star Refinery Aliağa
The Star Refinery secures Turkey's supply of petrochemical products.
Ephesus
Ephesus was one of the most important and oldest Greek cities in Asia Minor and later a major Roman metropolis.
Soma Coal Mine
The Soma mines are among the most important suppliers of lignite for energy production.
Vestel City
Vestel City in Manisa is a massive production facility for consumer electronics and home appliances.
🗺️
Kaz Dağları National Park
Kaz Dağları National Park, known as the ancient Mount Ida, is a lushly forested region with rich mythology.