Red Basilica (Turkish: Kızıl Avlu – "Red Courtyard") is one of the most monumental structures of the ancient city of Pergamon (modern-day Bergama, Turkey). It was built in the 2nd century AD, during the reign of the Roman Emperor Hadrian (117–138 AD), and was originally a temple dedicated to the Egyptian gods Serapis (god of fertility and the underworld), Isis, and Harpocrates.
Pergamon was an important religious center, and the worship of Egyptian gods became widespread here due to trade connections with Alexandria. The temple was meant to showcase the power of the Roman Empire and the syncretism of its religion, blending Greco-Roman and Egyptian traditions.
Conversion into a Christian Basilica
With the spread of Christianity during the Byzantine period (5th–6th centuries), the temple was converted into a three-aisled basilica. It was one of the first churches established on the site of a pagan sanctuary. Some researchers suggest it may have been dedicated to Saint John or the Apostle Paul, who visited Pergamon during his missionary journeys.
The basilica suffered significant damage during Arab raids in the 7th–8th centuries, as well as from earthquakes. It was finally abandoned after the Turkish conquest of the region in the 14th century. Today, its impressive ruins remain, including sections of walls, columns, and underground tunnels.
Architecture and Dimensions
The Red Basilica in Bergama is one of the largest ancient structures in Asia Minor:
• Dimensions: Approximately 60 meters wide and 200 meters long (including the courtyard).
• Materials: Built of red brick (hence its name) and partially of marble.
• Had a vast inner courtyard with a pool (possibly for ritual purification).
• The main hall was vaulted, supported by massive columns.
• Beneath the temple, a system of underground tunnels remains, likely used in mystery cults.
Is the Red Basilica One of the Churches of the Apocalypse?
In the Book of Revelation (Apocalypse), the Seven Churches of Asia are mentioned, including Pergamon (Rev. 2:12–17). The text states: "…you dwell where Satan’s throne is" (Rev. 2:13).
Many scholars associate this with:
• The Altar of Zeus (the famous Pergamon Altar, now housed in the Berlin Museum).
• The Imperial Cult, which was particularly strong in Pergamon.
• The Temple of Serapis (Red Basilica), where pagan rituals took place.
Although the Red Basilica itself was built after the New Testament events, its predecessor—the Temple of Serapis—could well have been associated with "Satan’s throne" by early Christians.
The Red Basilica is a unique monument reflecting Pergamon’s religious history—from paganism to Christianity. Its grand scale and mysterious past make it one of Turkey’s most fascinating landmarks. Its connection to the Apocalypse adds a mystical aura, attracting pilgrims and scholars of biblical history. Today, the basilica is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ancient Pergamon and is open to visitors.
