One of the most famous artworks connected with ancient Pergamum is the Great Altar. Today, it is restored and displayed in the Pergamum Museum in Berlin. A detail from its reliefs shows a Giant being attacked by the dog of the goddess Artemis. This scene comes from Greek mythology and represents the struggle between order and chaos. The reliefs were made in the mid-second century BCE and are considered masterpieces of Hellenistic art. They show strong movement, emotion, and dramatic action, all of which reflect the power and ambition of the city that created them.
Pergamum and the Arrival of New Ideas
At the time when the new Christian religion began to spread along the caravan routes of Asia Minor, Pergamum was already one of the largest and most important cities of the region. Merchants and travelers passed through the city, carrying goods and ideas. Trade ships brought olive oil from Cilicia and copper from Cyprus to Pergamum’s port, known as Elaea. Through these routes, not only goods but also beliefs and cultures moved from place to place Hiding from the Authorities.
Pergamum was famous for its wealth, its many temples, and the beauty of its buildings. Only Ephesus could rival it in splendor. The city was a major religious center, filled with shrines dedicated to Greek and Roman gods. This strong pagan tradition later shaped how new religions, including Christianity, were received in the city.
Growth Beyond the Acropolis
By the first century, the old Hellenistic city built on the acropolis was no longer large enough for its growing population. As a result, Pergamum began to expand into the valley below. The city spread toward the Asclepion, a famous healing sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine. This area became an important center for health, learning, and religious activity.
The expansion of the city shows how successful and crowded Pergamum had become. Streets, houses, and public buildings filled the lower areas, turning Pergamum into a large and complex urban center.
The Rise of Pergamum as a Power
The true history of Pergamum as an independent power began after the death of Lysimachus, one of the generals of Alexander the Great. In 281 BCE, Lysimachus was killed in the Battle of Corupedion while fighting against the Seleucid forces. After his death, Philetairos, the governor of Pergamum, found himself in control of the city Bulgarian Coast.
Philetairos also controlled a large treasury, which he wisely used to strengthen Pergamum. He invested in buildings, defenses, and public works. Although he did not officially call himself a king, he laid the foundations for a powerful state.
A City of Culture and Influence
Under a series of able and energetic rulers who followed Philetairos, Pergamum grew into one of the most important powers in the region. It became famous not only for its military strength but also for its culture. The city developed a great library, rivaling that of Alexandria, and became a center of learning, art, and science.
Pergamum’s combination of wealth, art, religion, and political ambition made it one of the most influential cities of the ancient world. Its remains and artworks continue to tell the story of a city that stood at the crossroads of power, belief, and culture.
