Bergama (Pergamum) History

History

Pergamum owes its prosperity to Lysimachus, one of Alexander the Great’s generals, and also its downfall. Lysimachus took control of much of the Aegean region when Alexander’s far-flung empire fell apart after his death in 323 BC. In the battles over the spoils Lysimachus captured a great treasure, which he secured in Pergamum before going off to fight Seleucus for control of Asia Minor. But Lysimachus lost and was killed in 281 BC, whereupon Philetarus, the commander he had posted in Pergamum to protect the treasure, set himself up as governor.

Philetarus was a eunuch, but he was succeeded by his nephew Eumenes I (263–241 BC), and Eumenes was followed by his adopted son Attalus I (241–197 BC). Attalus declared himself king, expanded his power and made an alliance with Rome.

During the reign of his son Eumenes II (197–159 BC), Pergamum achieved its greatest glory. Rich and powerful, Eumenes added the library and the Altar of Zeus to the buildings already crowning the acropolis, and built the ‘middle city’ on terraces halfway down the hill. He also expanded and beautified the Asclepion. Inevitably, much of what the Pergamese kings built hasn’t survived the ravages of the centuries (or the enthusiasm of Western museums), but what has is impressive, dramatically sited and well worth visiting.

Eumenes’ brother Attalus II kept up the good work but under his son, Attalus III, the kingdom began to fall apart again. With no heir, Attalus III bequeathed his kingdom to Rome, and the kingdom of Pergamum became the Roman province of Asia in 129 BC.