The great strategic value of Pergamon, 6-h private excursion

Pergamon, now known as Bergama, lies in the Anatolia region of Turkey, roughly 25 kilometers away from the shimmering Aegean Sea in Izmir Province. This ancient city held immense strategic importance as it stood at a vantage point over the Caicus River Valley, now known as Bakırçay, and enjoyed access to the coastal region. At its peak, during the Hellenistic era, Pergamon flourished under the rule of the Attalid kings, acting as their capital. However, this prestige was later lost to nearby rival Ephesus when the Roman empire took over, making it the first capital of the Asian province.

Itinerary: Acropolis and Asklepion

Highlights of The great strategic value of Pergamon, 6-h private excursion

• Private tour approx 6 hours from Izmir
• Discover Pergamon Ancient City
• Visit the Acropolis and the Asklepion
• Specially designed for cruise passengers, Transfer from/to the port
• English-speaking tour guide

Description of the tour

Let our knowledgeable guide greet you at your cruise ship port and embark on a journey to the breathtaking city of Pergamos. This ancient site boasts both the renowned Acropolis and Asklepion, earning its place among the top 100 historical wonders of the Mediterranean.

Pergamon, once a prosperous city of the Mysian province of Teuthrania in Asia Minor, acted as the capital of the Kingdom. Perched on a small hill 300 meters above the fertile valley, the city’s name, meaning fortress or citadel, was fitting. The valley stretched westward to the shores of the gulf of Tsantarli and Adramyttium, creating a stunning backdrop. Between the two tributaries of Kaikos, Selinus and Kitiou, Pergamon flourished, endowed with a bountiful valley.

In the ancient world, Pergamon was a significant capital city with a rich history dating back to the early 4th century BC.Despite its prominence during Alexander the Great’s conquests, Pergamon truly rose to prominence during this period as one of the most influential cities of Mysia.

In the year 293 BC, King Lysimachus made sure to safeguard the invaluable treasures atop the fort hill. He entrusted their protection to General Philetaerus, who, after Lysimachus’ passing, utilized the immense fortune of 9,000 talents – an extraordinary amount in those days – to establish the modest yet powerful state of Pergamon. Following in his ancestor’s footsteps, Attalus A’ utilized much of the accumulated wealth to enhance the city’s grandeur. Under the rule of Eumenes II, successor of Attalus, Pergamon flourished with the construction of magnificent temples, public structures, and most notably, the renowned Pergamon Altar.

Pergamon by the Romans

During the Roman conquest, the Pergamon thrived as the most prominent hub for commerce, politics, and military operations in the province of Asia. Its grand library was unmatched, yet it was regrettably depleted when Mark Antony presented its books to the Queen of Egypt, Cleopatra. Nevertheless, the city continued to prosper, becoming home to the renowned ancient physician Galen.

However, political uprisings in 88 and 117 resulted in the loss of Pergamon’s most magnificent works of art, claimed by Rome. In the 7th century, the city became part of the Byzantine Empire, only to face complete destruction at the hands of Tamerlane in 1401. For nearly a century, it lay abandoned until the 15th century when the Turks reconstructed it at the base of the hill.

Eumenes the 2nd’s reign in Pergamon yielded some of the most breathtaking architectural wonders, such as the hillside theater’s magnificent terrace, the grandiose main palace, the awe-inspiring Altar of Zeus, and the esteemed Temple of Athena.

The Asklepion, a pioneering medical establishment, boasted the hometown of renowned physician Galen, who famously cared for Emperor Marcus Aurelius. Known today as Bergama, this bustling city is home to 55,000 residents.

As our private shore excursion comes to a close, we will return you to your cruise ship port in the same manner.

 

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Tour Type

• Shore Excursion – Private tour
• Activity level: Moderate

Included in the tour

• Entrance fees
• Professional English speaking guide licensed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism
• Non-Smoking, air conditioned vehicle and professional driver
• Pick up and drop off at your hotel
• Pick up and drop off at the port
• Road tolls and all local taxes

Excluded from the tour

• Optional Gratuities
• Food and beverage

Cancellation Policy

Read our cancellation policy

Additional info

• Dress Code: When visiting religious sites, shoulders and knees must be covered out of respect for the cultural norms.
• Please review our Terms & Conditions and Frequently Asked Questions
• Upon booking, an electronic voucher will be emailed to you containing our contact information, tour details, and all necessary instructions. This voucher serves as your ticket and proof of purchase. Please present a printed or digital copy of the voucher on the day of your tour to redeem your activity.

Persons with Disabilities

• Due to uneven surfaces, certain sites are not recommended for persons with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
• In all cases, we recommend comfortable flat-solid walking shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen.