ENTRY TYPE
Geographical Terms |
SUMMARY
Pergamon (or Pergamos), the modern city of Bergama, built on the banks of the Caicus River, was the capital of the Hellenistic kingdom of the Attalids and one of the most important cities of Hellenistic years in Asia Minor. The kings of Pergamon turned their seat into a spiritual centre of the Greek world, thus aiming to offer their city the prestige of classical Athens. Pergamon had an ingenious city plan, while splendid monuments, such as the altar of Zeus, the sanctuary of Athena Parthenos or Nike, the sanctuary of Demeter, the gymnasium, the theatre and the palace, added charm and splendour to the Hellenistic city, which maintained its importance during the Roman period as well. |
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