Asclepion in ancient Pergamon (modern Bergama) was one of the most famous ancient healing complexes dedicated to the god of medicine, Asclepius. It was built in the 4th century BCE but reached its peak in the 2nd century CE during the Roman Empire, thanks to the efforts of the renowned physician Galen, who worked here.
This healing center became the third most significant in the ancient world after the Asclepions in Kos and Epidaurus. Patients from all over the Roman Empire, including emperors and high-ranking officials, came here for treatment.
Treatment Methods at the Asclepion
The Asclepion in Bergama used a holistic approach to healing, combining medicine, psychotherapy, hydrotherapy, and religious rituals. Among the treatment methods were:
• Temple sleep (incubation) – Patients spent the night in the sanctuary, hoping for healing through dreams sent by Asclepius.
• Mineral waters and baths – Thermal springs were used.
• Mud therapy and massage.
• Music therapy and theater – It was believed that music soothed the soul, and theatrical performances distracted from illnesses.
• Surgical operations – Conducted using advanced instruments for the time.
Architectural Complex of the Asclepion
The Asclepion in Bergama was modeled after other sanctuaries of Asclepius but had unique features:
1. Sacred Road (Via Tecta) – A long colonnade (about 820 meters) led from the city to the Asclepion. It was covered to protect visitors from sun and rain.
2. Temple of Asclepius – The central structure of the complex, housing a statue of the healing god. Religious ceremonies were held here.
3. Round Temple (Tholos) – This structure was likely used for sound therapy—its acoustics amplified the voices of priests, creating a hypnotic effect.
4. Treatment Buildings and Library – The complex included patient rooms where various therapies were applied. There was also a library containing medical texts, including the works of Galen.
5. Theater – A stage for 3,500 spectators was used not only for entertainment but also as part of therapy—it was believed that art aided healing.
The underground tunnels of the Asclepion are one of its most mysterious features. They were used for:
• Transporting patients (to avoid exposing them to sunlight).
• Conducting secret rituals (possibly incubation dreams).
• Storing medicines and sacred objects.
Today, these tunnels are partially preserved, and visitors can walk through them, experiencing the mystical atmosphere of the ancient healing center.
Why is the Snake a Symbol of Medicine?
The symbol of a snake coiled around the Bowl of Hygieia (or the Rod of Asclepius) is linked to the cult of Asclepius. In the Asclepion, snakes were considered sacred animals:
• They symbolized rebirth (due to their ability to shed skin).
• Their venom was used in medicine (in small doses, it could heal).
• It was believed that snakes purified the sanctuary from diseases.
In the Bergama Asclepion, snakes freely slithered around the temple, and their presence was part of the rituals. Over time, the snake coiled around the Bowl of Hygieia (daughter of Asclepius) became a symbol of medicine.
The Asclepion in Bergama Today
Today, the ruins of the Asclepion in Bergama are a popular tourist attraction. The remains include:
• Colonnades and temple foundations.
• Underground tunnels.
• Remnants of the theater and treatment rooms.
• Fragments of the sacred spring.
This site offers a unique opportunity to connect with ancient medicine and understand how people were treated two thousand years ago. The Asclepion in Bergama is not just an archaeological monument but evidence of how religion, science, and art in the ancient world were used to heal people.
