Bergama: The Place Where the History Remains
Also known as Pergamon, this district is in the heart of the Aegean region of Turkey; İzmir. If you’re into history and love visiting the remains of the ancient city of Pergamon is the perfect place for it. Added to the UNESCO World Heritage in 2014, Pergamon is one of the seven churches of Asia. Besides the ruins of the ancient Greeks, there are multiple historical places from Ottoman Era as well. I believe Bergama has such an important location that the district brings two different eras into one place.
History & Facts
- One of the oldest settlement places, Pergamon Ancient city was founded in the 3rd century BC.
- The world’s steepest amphitheater is located in the Acropolis.
- The most eminent physician of the Archaic age, Galen was born here.
- The parchment paper which is denser and more durable was found in Pergamon hence where the name parchment comes from. At the time, papyrus was replaced with parchment, which was very easy to rip.
Where to visit
As I mentioned, Bergama is a location where you can visit both remains of the Ancient city from the Archaic Greek times and historical places from the Ottoman era. Though there are so many places to visit, the city center and these places are not very far away from one another. Once you reach Bergama, you can visit these places on foot. But to go to certain places a car would be better. Since Pergamon Ancient city was built on the mountainside the roads are too winding for buses to reach the top. So, you have 3 options: go by car, walk, or take the aerial lift. Either option is worth taking to witness how the old civilizations lived.
If you’re visiting Turkey, you should definitely add Bergama as one of your destinations and visit these ancient places. In the meantime, if you don’t have the time to travel, let us come to you with a box of international snacks all the way from Turkey with our beloved Turkish snacks. Even better if you subscribe you can have us at your doorstep every month!
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